Trump Formally Notifies Congress of Renewed Military Action Against Iran

President Trump formally notified members of Congress that the United States had resumed military action against Iran, in a letter sent July 10, 2026 and reported publicly around July 13. The notice, consistent with the War Powers Resolution's requirement that the president inform lawmakers within 48 hours of an attack, described strikes that began July 7 as action to protect Americans and U.S. interests at home and abroad. U.S. Central Command separately announced it would reinstate a naval blockade of Iranian ports.

The War Powers Resolution generally limits U.S. forces to 60 days of hostilities after such a notification, extendable by 30 days, before Congress must authorize continued action. Trump had previously notified Congress of operations on March 2, meaning those windows had lapsed. It was not clear whether the administration would treat the July strikes as a new operation that restarts the 60-day clock, or whether Congress would move to force a vote; lawmakers including Sen. John Curtis had signaled Congress may need to weigh in.

The notification is on the record. As of reporting, no congressional vote authorizing or ending the renewed campaign had occurred.