(Reuters)
The White House has formalised its reengagement in the war in Iran, notifying Congress of renewed military action.
US President Donald Trump sent Congress formal notification that hostilities against Iran resumed on July 7, a letter his administration sees as opening a new 60-day window to use the military in the region without congressional approval.
“I directed this military action consistent with my responsibility to protect Americans and United States’ national security and foreign policy interests,” Trump said in the letter, dated July 10, and seen by Reuters.
In recent days, hundreds of sites across Iran have been hit by the US military. The US says the strikes are a response to Iranian aggression and an attempt to stop Iran launching further attacks against ships trying to transit through the strait.
Iran has fired missiles and drones at Gulf states in retaliation, as well as further afield in Jordan, where US military bases and personnel operate.
Reporting with Reuters