Trump and his team were in contact with top congressional Republicans before the strikes, but top Democrats were not told of his plans until after the bombs had dropped.

Democrats bristled Sunday over US President Donald Trump's decision to launch air strikes on Iran without seeking authorization from Congress, accusing the Republican of violating the constitution and demanding a vote to rein in his war powers.

The United States is Israel's closest ally, providing billions of dollars in military aid annually. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Thursday that Trump was expected to make a decision about whether to directly support Israel in its attacks against Iran within the next two weeks.