Trump Tells Congress U.S. Is at War With Iran, Triggering 60-Day Clock
Updated
Updated · POLITICO · Jul 13
Trump Tells Congress U.S. Is at War With Iran, Triggering 60-Day Clock
3 articles · Updated · POLITICO · Jul 13
Summary
A July 10 letter from Trump formally notified Congress that U.S. strikes launched on July 7 amount to renewed war with Iran, opening a 60-day period for military action without congressional approval.
Trump said the attacks were consistent with his duty to protect Americans and U.S. interests after fighting around the Strait of Hormuz escalated and Iran hit commercial shipping.
Weekend exchanges deepened the conflict: Iran damaged a Cypriot-flagged container ship, U.S. forces struck targets tied to Tehran’s ability to threaten the strait, and the IRGC said it targeted U.S. facilities in four countries.
Trump also declared the U.S. would take over the Strait of Hormuz and levy a 20% charge on cargo, a move that further darkened prospects for continued U.S.-Iran talks.