WASHINGTON (AP) — Top U.S. national security officials briefed Congress on Tuesday regarding the ongoing military operation involving the United States and Israel in Iran, with lawmakers reporting a fluid and rapidly escalating situation.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, and General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, delivered classified briefings to both the Senate and the House of Representatives. The briefings addressed the nature of the operation and the potential for deployment of American troops.
Missouri Senator Josh Hawley, a Republican, described the operation as “massive and changing rapidly,” emphasizing to reporters that the scope was “very broad” and evolving “almost by the hour.”
The briefings come amid growing scrutiny of the U.S. role in the conflict, with some, including Secretary Rubio, suggesting Israel played a role in initiating the war. This has sparked criticism, as reported by the Jewish Telegraphic Agency, and a backlash among some of former President Trump’s supporters, according to The Guardian. Trump himself has attempted to downplay any suggestion of Israeli influence.
The situation is drawing international concern, with observers closely watching for any indication of further escalation. The New York Times has published reporting detailing how President Trump ultimately decided to engage in military action against Iran.
The briefings offered little clarity on the long-term objectives of the operation, leaving many in Congress seeking further information. The rapidly changing nature of the conflict presents a significant challenge for policymakers as they assess the potential risks and consequences.
—Reuters contributed to this report.