Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Jul 14: US President Donald Trump has officially informed Congress that American forces resumed military operations against Iran earlier this month, stating that the action was taken after Tehran allegedly violated a ceasefire agreement by attacking commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
In a letter sent to congressional leaders on July 10 under the War Powers Resolution, Trump said the military campaign began on July 7, 2026, following what he described as Iran's failure to comply with obligations outlined in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on June 17.
"I write to apprise you of military action commenced on July 7, 2026, against the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran," the President stated in the letter.
Trump said his administration had pursued diplomatic efforts after announcing a ceasefire in April, engaging in negotiations aimed at resolving tensions and addressing what he described as Iran's hostile activities toward the United States and its allies.
According to the President, the June agreement required Iran to make every effort to ensure the safe passage of commercial vessels through the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. However, he alleged that Iran attacked several neutral-flagged merchant ships between July 6 and July 7, prompting the United States to respond militarily.
The President said he authorised what he described as targeted defensive strikes against Iranian missile launch sites, air defence systems, military maritime assets, command-and-control facilities and logistical infrastructure.
Trump emphasised that no US ground troops were involved in the operation and said the strikes were carefully planned to minimise civilian casualties while targeting military capabilities that posed a threat to American personnel, regional allies and international shipping routes.
He also indicated that the United States remains prepared to conduct additional military operations if necessary.
According to the letter, US forces will remain ready to respond to any future threats against the United States, its allies or partners until Iran no longer poses a security risk.
Trump said the military action was carried out under his constitutional authority as Commander in Chief and that the notification was submitted to comply with the requirements of the War Powers Resolution by keeping Congress informed.
The formal notification comes as members of Congress continue to debate the extent of presidential authority to initiate military operations against Iran without prior legislative approval.