WASHINGTON — U.S. President Donald Trump has formally notified Congress that hostilities with Iran resumed on July 7, a step the administration says begins a new 60-day period under the War Powers Resolution during which U.S. forces may continue military operations without additional congressional authorization.
In a letter dated July 10 and sent to congressional leaders, Trump said he had directed the military action "consistent with my responsibility to protect Americans and United States' national security and foreign policy interests." According to the administration, the renewed operations followed what it described as Iran's violation of a June ceasefire arrangement through attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
The letter outlines the administration's account of the conflict, stating that a ceasefire announced in April had been extended while diplomatic efforts continued before military operations resumed earlier this month. Trump has also announced the reinstatement of U.S. measures targeting Iranian shipping as the conflict has escalated.
The administration's interpretation of the War Powers Resolution has drawn criticism from some members of Congress, including lawmakers from both parties, who argue the renewed notification does not create a fresh authorization period for an ongoing conflict. Congressional efforts to limit or end U.S. military involvement have continued, although no new authorization for the operations has been enacted.
The renewed notification comes as U.S.-Iran tensions have intensified following the collapse of the ceasefire, with military operations and diplomatic disputes continuing. No change in Congress's formal authorization for the use of force had been announced as of publication, and the situation remained fluid.
