White House: War Powers Resolution authorization does not apply to Libya

The Obama administration on Wednesday released its much-anticipated report describing the scope of U.S. military operations in Libya and in it said the administration does not believe congressional authorization is needed under the War Powers Resolution to continue operations there.

"The President is of the view that the current U.S. military operations in Libya are consistent with the War Powers Resolution and do not under that law require further congressional authorization, because U.S. military operations are distinct from the kind of 'hostilities' contemplated by the Resolution's 60 day termination provision," the report said.

This stands in stark contrast to the views of many in Congress who believe Obama needs to get congressional approval for continued intervention after this Friday, or it will be in violation of the War Powers Resolution.

The report is a response to a June 3 House resolution requiring details about the scope and anticipated duration and cost of the effort. The report said total operations through June 3 cost $715.9 million, and implied that operations would continue until all attacks against civilians stop, Col. Moammar Gadhafi pulls troops away from key cities and humanitarian assistance is permitted to reach citizens.