Trump announces US formally at war with Iran again, 60 days to use military force without Congress approval

U.S. President Donald Trump has formally announced that the country is back at war with Iran.

According to Politico, Trump formally notified Congress that the conflict had resumed, giving his administration another 60 days to use military force in the region without congressional approval.

Strait of Hormuz

The move comes amid recent strikes between the U.S. and Iran and the ongoing struggle over the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global energy supplies.

In a Truth Social post on Jul. 13, Trump said that the Strait of Hormuz is open "with or without Iran", while reinstating a blockade on Iranian vessels.

In his post, Trump also noted that countries would be required to reimburse the U.S. 20 per cent on all cargoes shipped, supposedly to cover the costs of providing safety and security.

Ceasefire over

The letter came after Trump announced that the ceasefire with Iran had ended.

Previously on Jun. 17, Trump signed a 60-day ceasefire with Iran, along with a 14-point framework outlining the terms for further negotiations.

According to a letter to Congress obtained by Politico, Trump said the strikes, which started on Jul. 7, were "military action consistent with my responsibility to protect Americans and United States' interests both at home and abroad."