Trump Declares U.S. Back in Conflict With Iran, Extends Military Authority for 60 Days
The United States has officially resumed military conflict with Iran after President Donald Trump informed Congress that hostilities had restarted, according to reports from U.S. media outlets.
The announcement grants the Trump administration a further 60 days to conduct military operations against Iran without requiring additional approval from Congress. The move follows a fresh escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran after recent military strikes involving both sides.
Trump’s notification to lawmakers signals a major shift in U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East and raises concerns about the possibility of a broader regional conflict involving key energy routes and strategic interests.
Strait of Hormuz Remains Key Flashpoint
One of the central issues surrounding the renewed conflict is the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow but highly important shipping corridor through which a significant portion of the world’s oil and gas supplies pass.
In a post published on Truth Social on Jul. 13, Trump stated that the waterway would remain open regardless of Iran’s position. At the same time, he announced the reinstatement of a blockade targeting Iranian vessels operating in the region.
The U.S. president also proposed that countries using the shipping route reimburse Washington 20 per cent of the value of cargo transported through the strait. Trump argued that the charge would help offset the costs of maintaining security and ensuring safe passage for international shipping.
Ceasefire Agreement No Longer in Effect
The latest developments come less than a month after Trump had announced a temporary ceasefire arrangement with Iran.
On Jun. 17, the U.S. administration unveiled a 60-day ceasefire agreement accompanied by a 14-point framework intended to guide future negotiations between the two nations. The agreement was viewed as an attempt to reduce tensions following earlier military confrontations.
However, Trump has since declared that the ceasefire is no longer in force, paving the way for renewed military action and a tougher stance against Tehran.
Military Operations Began Earlier This Month
According to a letter reportedly obtained by Politico, Trump informed Congress that military operations against Iran began on Jul. 7.
In the letter, he described the actions as necessary measures carried out under his constitutional responsibilities as president. Trump stated that the operations were aimed at protecting American citizens and safeguarding U.S. interests both domestically and internationally.
The renewed conflict is expected to attract close scrutiny from lawmakers, foreign governments and global markets, particularly given the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz to international energy supplies. Analysts have also warned that any prolonged disruption in the region could have significant implications for oil prices, shipping costs and broader global economic stability.