US President Donald Trump has formally notified Congress that hostilities against Iran resumed on July 7, a move his administration believes starts a new 60-day period during which military operations can continue without congressional approval.
In a letter dated July 10 and seen by Reuters, Trump said he had ordered the military action in line with his responsibility to protect Americans and safeguard US national security and foreign policy interests.
The letter outlined a series of actions taken by the administration, including a two-week ceasefire that began on April 7 and was later extended, alongside efforts to pursue a diplomatic solution to the conflict.
Administration cites renewed conflict
According to the letter, the United States began military operations against Iran alongside Israel on Feb 28.
Trump also referred to a memorandum of understanding signed with Iran on June 17, saying Tehran violated the agreement by attacking commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
He said the alleged attacks prompted the United States to resume strikes against Iran.
As the conflict intensified, Trump announced that the United States would reinstate its blockade of Iranian shipping in the Gulf while ensuring the Strait of Hormuz remained open.
War powers dispute continues
Under the US Constitution, only Congress has the authority to declare war. However, US presidents have long maintained they can authorise limited military action without prior congressional approval to protect national security.
The War Powers Act requires the president to notify Congress within 48 hours after initiating hostilities. It also states that military action launched without congressional approval must end within 60 days.
Trump argued that the earlier 60-day deadline did not apply because the conflict had effectively ended with the ceasefire, despite continued attacks and the US blockade of Iranian ports.
His interpretation has been challenged by Democratic lawmakers and some Republicans, who argued the administration was misapplying the law.
Last month, both the Senate and the House of Representatives passed a resolution directing Trump to withdraw US forces from the conflict with Iran despite Republicans holding narrow majorities in both chambers.
Following the vote, Trump criticised lawmakers who supported the resolution, accusing them of giving ‘comfort’ to Iran and making his administration’s job more difficult.
