Congress leaders to be briefed after demanding answers on Iran tensions

Top leaders in Congress will be receiving a classified briefing on the Middle East as lawmakers demand answers from the White House about President Donald Trump’s actions toward Iran.

Multiple sources say Wednesday that the top House and Senate leaders of both parties would be briefed by the administration. The sources are not authorized to discuss the matter and are granted anonymity.

Thursday’s planned briefing comes amid rising tensions in the Persian Gulf region over still unspecified threats the Trump administration says are linked to Iran.

The US on Wednesday orders all nonessential government staff to leave Iraq. The US earlier moved an aircraft carrier and other resources toward the region.

House Democrats raise concerns about the situation at a closed meeting Wednesday and said they want answers.

— AP