Trump Declares War Measures With Iran Terminated Amid Continued Blockade

President Donald Trump has officially declared hostilities with Iran 'terminated' under the War Powers Resolution, citing the absence of direct fire exchanges since the ceasefire established on April 7, 2026. In letters sent to congressional leaders, the President framed the ongoing U.S. naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz as a non-hostile pressure tactic. U.S. assessments indicate the blockade has inflicted a significant economic hit on Tehran, with an estimated $4.8 billion in lost oil earnings to date. Despite the formal end of hostilities, diplomatic and military tensions remain high. The U.S. Treasury introduced new sanctions targeting three Iranian foreign currency exchange firms, aiming to disrupt financial lifelines used for terrorism funding. Meanwhile, President Trump expressed dissatisfaction with Iran's recent diplomatic proposals, and Iranian armed forces remain on high alert with activated air defenses. The U.S. approach has strained relationships with European allies. Tensions escalated as President Trump ordered the withdrawal of 5,000 U.S. troops from Germany following public disagreements with Chancellor Friedrich Merz regarding the lack of a clear exit strategy. Additionally, the U.S. has cautioned European partners that arms deliveries may be delayed as military resources are prioritized for the Iran-related blockade.