Bypassing Congressional Review
Secretary of State Marco Rubio approved over $8.6 billion in expedited arms transfers to Middle East allies, including Israel, Qatar, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates. This bypasses the standard congressional review process. The arms sales aim to rush air defense missiles and laser guidance systems to the Middle East.
Justifying the Arms Sales
The White House informed Congress that approval wasn't needed because the war had been "terminated" during the current ceasefire. President Trump defended the U.S. military's campaign against Iran's nuclear program, asserting it has weakened Tehran's capabilities. Qatar will receive Patriot missile defense replenishment and precision weapon systems.
Iran's Rejected Proposal
President Trump rejected a new proposal from Iran aimed at breaking a diplomatic deadlock. Trump expressed skepticism that Iran could ever submit a proposal that would satisfy him. The president said "Iran is asking for things that I can't agree to," but didn't provide specifics.
War Powers Act Deadline
Friday marked the 60-day legal deadline for the Trump administration to seek congressional authorization for the Iran war. The White House released a letter to Congress stating, "There has been no exchange of fire between United States forces and Iran since April 7, 2026. The hostilities that began on February 20, 2026, have terminated." Harold Koh, former State Department official, argues that the president is misunderstanding the text of the war powers resolution.
Military Options Remain
President Trump acknowledged receiving a briefing from Admiral Brad Cooper, his top Middle East commander, regarding military options. Trump told FOX News’ Peter Doocy the options were: "Do we want to go and just blast the hell out of them and finish them forever, or do we want to try and make a deal?" A U.S. official stated there is little appetite by the administration to restart the war in full.
Troop Withdrawal from Germany
The spokesperson for Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth confirmed the U.S. will withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany. There are about 36,000 troops in Germany right now, and 70,000 troops in Europe. The withdrawal follows criticism from German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who criticized the president for not having an exit plan.
