President Donald Trump’s administration on Friday argued that the war in Iran has already ended because of the ceasefire that began in early April, an interpretation that would allow the White House to avoid the need to seek congressional approval. The statement furthers an argument laid out by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth during testimony in the Senate on Thursday, when he said the ceasefire effectively paused the war. Under that rationale, the administration has not yet met the requirement mandated by a 1973 law to seek formal approval from Congress for military action that extends beyond 60 days. Friday was the 60-day deadline.

PARIS – Activists worldwide gathered for May Day rallies and street protests, calling for peace, higher wages and better working conditions. The day is a public holiday in many countries and demonstrations are being held in major cities in Asia to Europe. The European Trade Union Confederation emphasizes that workers are refusing to bear the costs of conflicts like the Iran war. In Istanbul, police detained some 15 protesters who tried to reach Taksim Square, the epicenter of landmark 2013 protests, in defiance of a government ban. In the U.S., activists opposing President Donald Trump’s policies planned marches. Rising energy prices and living costs are major concerns.

KYIV, Ukraine – Ukrainian forces have struck an oil terminal in the Russian Black Sea city of Tuapse, according to Ukraine’s General Staff. This marks the fourth attack on the region’s oil infrastructure in just over two weeks. Local officials in Russia said a Ukrainian drone attack sparked a blaze, but no casualties were reported. Meanwhile, Russian attacks continue to hit Ukraine. On Friday, Russia attacked the western Ukrainian city of Ternopil with over 50 drones, wounding at least 10 people. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia continues to target energy and civilian infrastructure with drone strikes.

– The Associated Press