The Latest
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Iran Threatens USS Abraham Lincoln Amid Tensions
Tehran also expressed intentions to target U.S. universities in the region.
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Iran declared its intent to target the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier if it enters missile range. Iran’s navy chief issued this statement following remarks from Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who accused the United States of preparing a ground assault on Iran while simultaneously pursuing diplomatic channels.
In Islamabad, Middle East powers are holding talks to mediate the conflict. These discussions aim to find an end to the ongoing hostilities in the region.
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Iran Attack Damages U.S. Military Aircraft in Saudi Arabia
Ten U.S. service members were injured, some critically.
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On March 27, the Iranian attack on Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia led to significant damage to U.S. military aircraft, including a possible total loss of a U.S. Air Force E-3 Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft.
Ten U.S. service members were injured, some critically.
Images circulated on social media show what appears to be extensive damage to the E-3. The authenticity of these images is not yet confirmed, though initial assessments suggest they might be genuine. The attack reportedly involved long-range drones and ballistic missiles. Commercial satellite imagery from foreign sources shows notable damage to the base’s main apron. Satellite imagery before the image delays by major U.S. providers, such as Planet Labs, indicates attempts to protect assets by dispersing aircraft across the airfield.
Five other tankers were also damaged earlier in the conflict at Prince Sultan Air Base, a key site for supporting the U.S. war effort. The U.S. had deployed six E-3s to the Middle East before the conflict, and replacements like the E-7 Wedgetail are delayed. Iran has reportedly targeted regional radar installations, with potential targeting data support from Chinese and Russian satellites.
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Pentagon May Reroute Weapons from Ukraine to Middle East
The possible reallocation includes air defense interceptor missiles purchased through a NATO initiative designed to supply U.S. arms to Ukraine.
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The Pentagon is considering reallocating weapons initially intended for Ukraine to the Middle East due to the challenges posed by the conflict in Iran, according to a Washington Post report citing three sources familiar with the situation.
A Pentagon representative assured the Washington Post that the Defense Department remains committed to ensuring that U.S. forces and their allies receive necessary resources to succeed.
In response to inquiries about the report, a NATO official confirmed the ongoing commitment of alliance members and partners to the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) program. They stated, “Equipment is continuously flowing into Ukraine,” noting that several billion dollars have already been pledged, with further contributions anticipated.
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U.S.-Iran Talks Denied by Tehran, Airstrikes Paused
President Donald Trump announced a five-day pause in U.S. airstrikes against Iranian energy infrastructure, citing ‘very good and productive conversations’ with Tehran about resolving regional hostilities. However, Iran claims no direct or indirect talks with U.S. officials have occurred.
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President Donald Trump announced a five-day pause in U.S. airstrikes against Iranian energy infrastructure, citing ‘very good and productive conversations’ with Tehran about resolving regional hostilities. However, Iran claims no direct or indirect talks with U.S. officials have occurred.
Over the weekend, Trump had given Iran 48 hours to lift its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, warning of potential consequences. Despite Iran’s denial, Trump insists discussions are progressing, with ‘major points of agreement’ identified. He noted the talks involved his Middle East envoys and a ‘respected’ Iranian leader, not Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, who remains incapacitated following recent events.
Tehran’s Fars News Agency disputes Trump’s claims, suggesting his statements indicate a withdrawal from aggressive stances. Despite the purported diplomatic efforts, tensions persist, with Iran allegedly planning retaliatory strikes on key U.S. infrastructures, and Iranian armed forces threatening the use of ‘secret weapons.’
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Strikes Near Israel’s Nuclear Research Center Mark New Phase of War
Iranian missiles hit areas near Dimona in southern Israel, raising concerns over proximity to nuclear facilities.
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Iranian missile strikes on March 21 targeted southern Israel, hitting areas around Dimona and Arad. The attacks injured over 100 people and caused significant damage.
Evidence indicates that the Shimon Peres Negev Nuclear Research Center near Dimona was not directly hit, though at least one missile landed nearby. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed no damage to the facility and reported normal radiation levels after the attack.
Dimona is a critical site linked to Israel’s nuclear research. Although specific capabilities are undisclosed, the site’s strategic importance makes military activity in the vicinity notable, even if unintentional impacts occur.
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Iran threatens to attack Mideast electrical plants powering US bases
Israel and Iran continue exchanging strikes, heightening regional tensions.
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Early Monday, Israel conducted extensive strikes on Tehran’s infrastructure, while Iran renewed its attacks on neighboring Gulf states, threatening to target their power plants. Amid heightened tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, U.S. President Donald Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum for Iran to reopen the waterway, threatening military action against Iranian power plants. In response, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard warned of retaliatory strikes on American bases’ power supplies.
In an interview on Iran International, U.S. Central Command chief Adm. Brad Cooper advised Iranians to remain in shelters, noting Iran’s missile and drone launches from populated areas might be targeted.
Meanwhile, defense systems in the United Arab Emirates intercepted a missile near Abu Dhabi, injuring one person with shrapnel. Saudi Arabia and Bahrain also reported intercepting projectiles. Rising oil prices and stock market volatility reflect global apprehensions about an energy crisis.
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Kremlin: Ukraine Peace Talks Paused Amid Iran Conflict
The Kremlin announced a pause in Ukraine peace talks, citing the Iran conflict.
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The Kremlin announced Thursday that peace negotiations with the Trump administration concerning the Russia-Ukraine conflict are on a “situational pause” due to ongoing events in Iran.
Ukraine has expressed readiness to support the U.S. in countering drone attacks from Iran, while Russia has opposed the U.S. and Israeli military actions. CIA Director John Ratcliffe informed a Senate committee that Iran has sought Russian intelligence support, but did not confirm whether such support was provided, citing classified discussions.
Six months ago, President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Alaska to further peace talks for the Ukraine crisis.
In December, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky proposed a comprehensive peace plan, which involves some territorial concessions and a security pact involving the U.S., NATO, and European nations.
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Iran Women’s Soccer Team Receives Hero’s Welcome in Tehran
Iran’s women’s soccer team returned home to a hero’s welcome after some players initially sought asylum.
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Iran’s national women’s soccer team returned home to a large welcome in Tehran after playing in the Women’s Asian Cup in Australia. The team members, including six players and a staff member, initially sought asylum but later decided to return. The return drew attention amid allegations of familial pressure by Iranian authorities.
State media reported thousands gathered in Valiasr Square for the event, where images showed expressions of loyalty to Iran. Players, who faced backlash for not singing the national anthem during an early match, later joined in singing it. Team members who returned cited national pride over offers of asylum-related incentives.
In Australia, some players, criticized at home as “wartime traitors,” submitted asylum claims, which they later withdrew. Activists allege their families faced pressure in Iran, while Iranian officials mentioned athletes were courted by lucrative offers abroad.
Iranian soccer official Farideh Shojaei acknowledged these offers but praised the athletes for prioritizing their national identity. Two players remained in Australia, while the others traveled back to Iran via Malaysia, Oman, and Turkiye.
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FBI Takes Down Pro-Iranian Websites After Stryker Hack
The FBI seized websites linked to Handala after a cyberattack on Stryker.
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The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) shut down two websites linked to the pro-Iranian hacktivist group Handala, which recently claimed responsibility for a cyberattack on U.S. medical technology company Stryker. One site publicized Handala’s cyberactivities, while the other doxed individuals tied to the Israeli military and defense firms. These sites now display a banner citing U.S. law enforcement activity.
The FBI’s announcement suggested that the websites were used for cyber activities involving a foreign state actor, stating, “The United States Government has taken control of this domain to disrupt ongoing malicious cyber operations and prevent further exploitation.” Nameserver records confirm FBI control.
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Italy Declines Iran War Participation, Pulls Troops
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Italy has announced its decision to not participate in the military conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, and is withdrawing some military personnel from the Middle East.
Speaking to lawmakers, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated that Italy ‘does not take part’ in U.S.-Israeli strikes against Iran and emphasized that the country ‘does not want to enter’ the ongoing war. She described the situation as one of the most significant international crises in recent decades, indicating concerns about the escalating conflict.
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Pentagon Confirms Six Airmen Killed in Aircraft Crash
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The Pentagon identified six U.S. service members who died on March 12 when a KC-135 refueling aircraft crashed during operations against Iran. The airmen were part of the 6th Air Refueling Wing from MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, and the 121st Air Refueling Wing from Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base, Ohio.
Maj. John “Alex” Klinner, 33, Capt. Ariana G. Savino, 31, and Tech. Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt, 34, were among the deceased from the MacDill base. Klinner, serving as the chief of Squadron Standardizations and Evaluations, joined the Air Force in 2017. Savino, the chief of Current Operations Pilot, also joined in 2017. Pruitt was a KC-135 instructor boom operator. All had multiple deployments and earned various commendations, including the Air Medal.
Capt. Seth R. Koval, 38, Capt. Curtis J. Angst, 30, and Tech. Sgt. Tyler H. Simmons, 28, from the Ohio unit, were also killed. Koval, a KC-135R Stratotanker instructor, enlisted in 2006 and earned his commission in 2018. Angst trained as a vehicle maintenance technician before becoming a KC-135R pilot. Simmons joined in 2017, becoming a refueling specialist in 2022. Similarly, they held numerous medals.
Col. Ed Szczepanik and Maj. Gen. Matthew S. Woodruff offered condolences, highlighting the sacrifices made by the airmen and expressing ongoing support for their families.
The crash is under investigation. This incident marks the fourth U.S. aircraft loss in March tied to combat operations in Operation Epic Fury, during which 13 U.S. service members have been killed. Gen. Dan Caine commented on the dedication of service members and their significant sacrifices.
Many KC-135s are engaged in refueling operations within the U.S. Central Command area.
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U.S. Temporarily Lifts Sanctions on Russian Oil at Sea
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The United States has temporarily lifted sanctions on Russian oil currently stranded at sea, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced Thursday. This decision is part of efforts by the Trump administration to address rising energy prices amid the ongoing conflict with Iran.
Bessent emphasized in a social media post that the measure is “narrowly tailored” and will not markedly benefit the Russian government financially. The exemptions are effective until April 11, as confirmed by the Treasury Department.
In a statement, President Trump is taking proactive steps to stabilize global energy markets and control prices while dealing with threats from Iran, a country impacting the critical Strait of Hormuz shipping lane.
This follows the administration’s decision to allow India to purchase Russian oil for a 30-day period. President Trump announced plans to release 172 million barrels from the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve.
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Trump Administration Criticizes CNN for Broadcasting Iranian Remarks
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The Trump administration criticized CNN on Thursday for broadcasting part of a statement by Iran’s new supreme leader. This marks the second time in three days the administration has targeted CNN for its coverage of Iran’s response to U.S. actions.
The administration expressed its disapproval on social media, accusing CNN of airing Iranian state TV content. White House Communications Director Steven Cheung previously criticized CNN anchor Erin Burnett’s interview with a former Iranian nuclear negotiator, characterizing it as repeating unverified information.
CNN responded, noting that other networks, including Sky News and Al Jazeera, also aired portions of Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei’s statement. The content was considered newsworthy given the context of ongoing tensions.
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US Military Plane Crash in Iraq Kills Four
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A U.S. Air Force KC-135 refueling plane crashed in western Iraq, killing four of its six crew members, the U.S. Central Command reported. The crash, described as occurring under unspecified circumstances in “friendly airspace,” involved a second KC-135, which landed safely.
The KC-135 Stratotanker, used for midair refueling to extend aircraft operations, is based on the Boeing 707 design and has served for over 60 years. The Air Force aims to replace it with the KC-46A Pegasus, but the transition has been slower than anticipated.
A KC-135 typically has a crew of three: a pilot, co-pilot, and boom operator. In aeromedical evacuations, its crew expands to include nurses and medical technicians.
The Central Command confirmed the deaths of four crew members and stated that the crash was not caused by hostile or friendly fire.
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Israeli Airstrikes Hit Beirut, Other Areas in Lebanon
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Israel’s airstrikes on Lebanon targeted areas in Beirut not previously hit in this conflict or during the 2024 war. According to the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health, a strike on Friday in Jnah, a coastal neighborhood of Beirut, killed one person. Another strike hit an apartment in the Nabaa neighborhood, causing a fire but no immediate casualties.
In less than two weeks, 687 people, including 98 children, have died in Israeli attacks on Lebanon, and more than 800,000 have been displaced, as reported by Lebanese officials. The Israeli army stated it targeted a Hezbollah member in Beirut, reportedly aiming at cash reserves hidden in building basements, a claim reported by Al Jazeera.
Israeli strikes extended beyond Beirut. An Israeli drone attack hit a residential building in Bourj Hammoud, a suburb northeast of Beirut, according to Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA). In southern Lebanon, nine people, including five children, died in Arki near Sidon, with additional fatalities in al-Fawwar, Ain Ebel, Barish, Bar Elias, and Tayr Falsay. The Zrarieh Bridge over the Litani River, allegedly used by Hezbollah, was also struck.
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French Soldier Killed in Drone Attack, Macron Condemns Strike
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A French soldier, Chief Warrant Officer Arnaud Frion, was killed in a drone attack in Iraq’s Kurdistan region, French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed Friday. This incident marks the first French military casualty in the recent Middle Eastern conflict. The attack, attributed to a Shahed drone typically used by Iran, occurred in the Erbil region, according to the French military.
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Iran-linked Hackers Target Stryker, Affect Networks
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A hacking group with ties to Iran, known as ‘Handala,’ has taken responsibility for a cyberattack on Stryker, a medical technology company based in Michigan. The attack significantly disrupted Stryker’s network, primarily affecting its Microsoft environment by erasing data from employee laptops and cellphones, although no ransom was demanded.
Stryker confirmed the attack, acknowledging the widespread disruption. The group claims that over 200,000 systems and devices were wiped, and 50 terabytes of critical data were extracted.
David Kennedy, a security expert, informed Fox News that while the threat of additional Iranian cyberattacks grows, U.S. corporations are prepared to handle such challenges. He emphasized the need for heightened vigilance among Americans as potential cyber threats continue.
Stryker asserted that its critical medical equipment, such as surgical robots and LIFEPAK defibrillators, remain secure and unaffected by the attack. As of Thursday night, disruptions to its Microsoft environment are ongoing.
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U.S. to Release Oil from Reserves Amid Iran Conflict
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President Trump ordered the release of 172 million barrels from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) as oil prices reached high levels due to the conflict with Iran. Energy Secretary Christopher Wright stated the release will begin next week, taking about 120 days to complete. This action aligns with a coordinated effort by the International Energy Agency (IEA), whose 32 member countries planned to release 400 million barrels.
The goal is to address supply issues caused by disrupted commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit point. Iran’s threat to deploy naval mines has further escalated tensions, affecting global oil flow.
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War in Iran Tops $11.3 Billion in First Six Days
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Defense Department officials informed senators in a closed briefing that the initial six days of war in Iran cost over $11.3 billion, according to three sources familiar with the details.
Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., stated the current figure might be higher, as it does not encompass all war-related costs. “I expect that the current total operating number is significantly above that,” Coons said. “If all you’re looking at is the replacement cost for the munitions used, it’s already well beyond $10 billion.”
The $11.3 billion estimate arrives as the Trump administration plans to request supplemental funding from Congress. The appropriations subcommittee will play a critical role in formulating the necessary legislation.