US President formally notifies Congress of resumption of combat against Iran

Washington, July 13 (KUNA) -- U.S. media outlets reported on Monday that President Donald Trump formally notified Congress of the resumption of hostilities with Iran. CNN and other U.S. television networks reported that on Friday, two days prior, President Trump sent a letter to Senate President pro tempore Chuck Grassley, informing him that the U.S. military had begun military operations against Iran on July 7. He described the U.S. action as “limited,” focusing on degrading Iran’s military capabilities.

According to CNN, Trump stated in his letter that the U.S. operations included “defensive strikes” targeting missile launch platforms, air defense systems, military naval assets, military support infrastructure, and command and control capabilities within Iran. He noted that U.S. ground forces were not involved in these operations.

Trump wrote in his letter that “these strikes are limited, deliberate, and planned, and were carried out in a manner aimed at minimizing civilian casualties as much as possible.” He added that he was sending the notification to keep Congress informed, in compliance with the law governing the president’s war powers.

Members of the Democratic Party and some Republicans had previously expressed concern that Trump was exceeding his legal authority by launching a war against Iran without obtaining congressional approval.

Earlier on Monday, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that it would resume the blockade of Iranian ports on Tuesday evening, following directives from President Donald Trump, after Iran violated a memorandum of understanding that barred the U.S. side from such actions. (End) A.M.M. / M.A.H.A.