Overview
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the U.S. joined Israel in striking Iran because intelligence showed Tehran would automatically target U.S. troops once Israel attacked.
- Rubio briefed the Gang of Eight and said required War Powers notifications were delivered, while Democratic leaders said the evidence of an imminent threat was insufficient and prepared oversight and potential votes.
- U.S. officials reported at least six American service members killed after Iranian missile and drone retaliation on regional bases, and Israel reported fatalities in Beit Shemesh following Iran’s response.
- Rubio outlined the mission’s stated goals as destroying Iran’s ballistic missile and naval capabilities, saying regime change is not the formal objective even as he voiced hope for political change in Tehran.
- The campaign continues with officials warning of tougher phases ahead, and the U.S. ordered non‑emergency personnel to depart several regional posts as tensions and disruptions expand.