Trump formally notifies Congress of renewed Iran hostilities

President Donald Trump has formally informed Congress that U.S. military actions against Iran resumed on July 7, according to a notification seen by Reuters. The letter, dated July 10, states the order was given to protect Americans and U.S. national security and foreign policy interests.

Trump's notification details decisions made since the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran on February 28. He mentioned ordering a two-week ceasefire on April 7, which was extended, and that his administration sought a diplomatic solution. However, he asserts Iran broke a mid-June understanding by attacking ships in the Strait of Hormuz, leading to the resumption of U.S. attacks.

The U.S. Constitution grants Congress the power to declare war. The 1973 War Powers Resolution requires presidential military operations to be reported to Congress within 48 hours and to be approved within 60 days. Trump had previously informed Congress on May 1 that hostilities had ended, but a majority in both the Senate and House of Representatives voted in June to stop U.S. involvement in the conflict, though these votes were considered symbolic.

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I gave the order for this military action in accordance with my responsibility to protect Americans and the United States' national security and foreign policy interests.