Restarting the U.S. Military Strikes Against Iran

President Trump has informed Congress that the United States has resumed military strikes against Iran following the breakdown of peace negotiations. In accordance with the War Powers Act, Trump sent a two-page letter to lawmakers on Friday, explaining that U.S. strikes started again on July 7. The act requires the president to notify Congress within two days of military actions conducted abroad.

This decision effectively resets the timeline for requiring congressional approval of military hostilities, granting the Pentagon an additional 60 days to operate within the U.S. Central Command (Centcom) region. Under these regulations, Trump may extend military engagement by another 30 days, but any actions beyond 90 days require Congress’s approval.

The conflict initially began on February 28. According to Trump, the previous 60-day countdown stopped on April 7 when a tentative ceasefire with Tehran was reached. However, this ceasefire has ended, as Trump announced at the recent NATO summit. In line with this development, the U.S. military launched another series of attacks against Iran on Monday. These strikes followed Trump’s orders during the previous NATO summit and included reinstating the naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.

The recent wave of strikes, commencing at 4:45 p.m. EDT, marks the third day in a row of U.S. military actions against Iran. U.S. officials describe these attacks as a response to Iran’s targeting of commercial vessels in the strait.

Trump mentioned that Persian Gulf countries should reimburse the United States for protecting the waters in the Strait of Hormuz. He highlighted this point while speaking from the Oval Office, emphasizing the financial cost of securing a resource-rich area.

The resumption of military aggression prompted criticism. Some argue that this renewed U.S. action might not change the underlying conflict and risks further entangling the U.S. in an unpopular situation as midterm elections approach.

In related news, Trump disclosed that the U.S. might target Pickaxe Mountain in Iran with upcoming military strikes. He informed “The Hugh Hewitt Show” that preparations were underway for this action, warning Iranians to get ready.

President Trump has officially notified Congress of resumed military operations against Iran. The Pentagon now has an additional 60 days to engage U.S. forces within the Centcom theater without congressional approval.

Meanwhile, events on Capitol Hill continue to garner attention. Notable upcoming discussions include the Progressive Policy Institute’s meeting on “Ukraine, Europe, and the U.S.: A Shifting Balance.” The Center for a New American Security will release a report forecasting future upheavals, providing insights from Moscow.

Additionally, the Aspen Institute’s 2026 Aspen Security Forum will feature key speakers, such as former U.S. Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns, former Defense Secretary Mark Esper, and others.