President Trump resumes military strikes on Iran less than a month after a ceasefire as lawmakers call for a clearer strategy.

The administration announced a resumption of strikes against Iranian military and infrastructure targets after the memorandum of understanding signed on June 17 proved insufficient. The renewed hostilities follow a period of relative calm, but Iran has retaliated with drone and missile strikes against U.S. allies in the Gulf. These actions have caused gas prices to rise sharply as Iran continues to choke off the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global energy exports. Republican lawmakers are now pressing for more clarity on the conflict's direction. Senator Bill Cassidy stated that the escalation warrants congressional briefings and a direct explanation from the president to the public. While some Republicans, such as Senator Mike Rounds, want a decisive plan to militarily resolve the situation, others are concerned about the inflationary impact on fuel costs. Democrats are seeking to pressure the administration to end the hostilities, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer urging President Trump to stop the "catastrophe" and bring troops home before the November midterm elections.

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