Key facts
- President Donald Trump notified Congress that U.S. hostilities against Iran resumed on July 7.
- The notification allows for a new 60-day window for military action without explicit congressional approval.
- The U.S. is reinstating a blockade of Iranian shipping in the Gulf.
- A Reuters/Ipsos poll found 79% of Americans expect the war to be prolonged, with 37% approving of U.S. strikes.
- The War Powers Act's 60-day limit is being contested by opponents who argue Trump cannot unilaterally extend military engagement.
President Donald Trump has formally notified Congress that U.S. hostilities against Iran resumed on July 7, a move his administration views as initiating a new 60-day period for military engagement in the region without requiring further congressional approval. Trump stated in a letter dated July 10 that the action was consistent with his duty to protect American security interests.
The conflict escalated after Iran allegedly violated a memorandum of understanding signed on June 17 by attacking commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting Trump to order renewed strikes. The U.S. has also reinstated a blockade of Iranian shipping in the Gulf and aims to keep the Strait of Hormuz open.
This development occurs amidst a backdrop of public concern, with a Reuters/Ipsos poll revealing that 79% of Americans anticipate a prolonged war with Iran, an increase from 65% in March. Only 37% of respondents approve of the U.S. military strikes, and 60% expect gasoline prices to worsen due to the conflict. Half of those polled believe the war has not justified its costs.
The War Powers Act mandates that presidents inform Congress within 48 hours of initiating hostilities and requires military action without congressional approval to cease within 60 days. Trump's administration argues this deadline does not apply, as he declared the hostilities had been terminated by a prior ceasefire, despite ongoing military actions. Critics, including Democratic aides, contend this interpretation misapplies the law, especially given the extended duration of the conflict. Both the Senate and House of Representatives have passed resolutions directing Trump to withdraw U.S. forces, reflecting growing unease about the protracted war.