The United States is now engaged in a military conflict with Iran — one that President Trump has said could last four to five weeks, or even longer. American service members have already faced casualties. U.S. citizens abroad have been urged to leave multiple countries. Oil markets are rattled. Regional tensions are escalating.

And yet, more than 48 hours passed before the American people heard live remarks from the President explaining the decision to go to war.

Instead of a formal Oval Office address with questions from the press, the public received prerecorded videos, social media posts, and fragmented phone interviews with reporters. Pentagon briefings have raised additional concerns about limited press access and uneven questioning.

Regardless of party, Americans deserve clarity when their nation enters war.

War demands sacrifice. It risks lives. It reshapes global stability. It affects military families, diplomats, travelers, and every taxpayer. Decisions of this magnitude require transparent communication, clear objectives, and accountability to the public.

We call on President Donald Trump to deliver a comprehensive, live national address outlining:

• The specific objectives of the war
• The strategy for achieving them
• The anticipated duration
• The risks to U.S. service members and civilians
• The plan to prevent prolonged escalation

We also call on the White House and Department of Defense to hold regular, open press briefings that allow full participation from a broad range of news organizations, ensuring the American people receive consistent and complete information.

Finally, we urge Congress — including the House and Senate Foreign Affairs and Armed Services Committees — to hold public oversight hearings requiring administration officials to testify about the war’s goals and exit strategy.

Transparency is not weakness. Accountability is not partisanship. In moments of war, trust between the government and the people is essential.

The American public deserves direct answers, not fragments. Clear leadership, not confusion.

If this conflict is expected to last weeks — or longer — the country must be fully informed.

It’s time for transparency. It’s time for accountability.