Trump formally notifies Congress hostilities with Iran resumed

President Donald Trump has formally informed Congress that military hostilities against Iran resumed on July 7, a move that opens a new 60-day window for the U.S. to use military force in the region without further congressional approval. The notification, detailed in a letter dated July 10, cites Iran's alleged violation of a memorandum of understanding by attacking commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz as the catalyst for renewed strikes.

The U.S. began its military actions against Iran on February 28, in conjunction with Israel. The letter outlines Trump's previous actions, including a two-week ceasefire ordered on April 7, and the administration's pursuit of a diplomatic resolution. However, the conflict has intensified, prompting Trump to announce on Monday the reinstatement of a blockade on Iranian shipping and a commitment to keeping the Strait of Hormuz open.

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I directed this military action consistent with my responsibility to protect Americans and United States' national security and foreign policy interests.

While the U.S. Constitution grants Congress the power to declare war, presidents have historically asserted the right to engage in shorter military actions to protect national security. The War Powers Act mandates that presidents inform Congress within 48 hours of initiating hostilities and limits military action without congressional approval to 60 days. The administration contends that the initial 60-day deadline, which would have passed on May 1, did not apply because the hostilities were declared terminated by the ceasefire, despite ongoing attacks and blockades.

However, Democratic and Republican critics argue that the administration is misinterpreting the law. A senior Democratic aide from the House of Representatives stated that the president cannot simply disregard months of conflict by claiming hostilities have ended. This assertion comes as both the Senate and House have passed resolutions urging Trump to withdraw U.S. forces from hostilities with Iran, despite his party's opposition.

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The president can't just wish away months of war he said would last only four to six weeks.