WASHINGTON: The United States President Donald Trump has formally notified Congress that hostilities with Iran resumed on July 7, a move his administration says begins a new 60-day window for conducting military operations in the region without requiring additional approval from lawmakers.
In a letter sent to Congress and dated July 10, Trump said he ordered the latest military action in line with his constitutional responsibilities to protect American citizens and safeguard US national security and foreign policy interests.
“I directed this military action consistent with my responsibility to protect Americans and United States’ national security and foreign policy interests,” Trump said in the notification.
The letter detailed the administration’s actions during the conflict, including Trump’s decision to order a two-week ceasefire on April 7, which was later extended, as well as diplomatic efforts aimed at reaching a negotiated settlement.
The notification comes as tensions between Washington and Tehran remain elevated, with both sides exchanging military actions and warnings amid a broader regional crisis.
Under the US War Powers Resolution, presidents are required to notify Congress when American forces are introduced into hostilities or situations where hostilities are imminent.
The notification allows Congress to review the administration’s actions and its legal justification for the use of military force.
The Trump administration has maintained that the latest operations were necessary to defend US interests and deter threats from Iran, while critics in Congress have raised questions over the extent of presidential authority to continue military engagement without explicit legislative authorisation.
The formal notice marks a significant step in the ongoing confrontation between Washington and Tehran, with diplomatic efforts continuing alongside military operations aimed at influencing the course of the conflict.
