The military of the United States across Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Space Force, and Coast Guard
As of April 10, 2026, Iraq has emerged as a critical battleground in the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran. Iranian-backed militias and US forces have exchanged drone and airstrikes, killing hundreds including civilians, commanders, and UN peacekeepers. Iraq has authorized Iran-aligned Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) to defend themselves and demands stronger government action to contain escalating violence.
As of early April 2026, the US has deployed nearly 7,000 additional troops, including the 82nd Airborne Division and Marine Expeditionary Units, to the Middle East. The Pentagon is preparing options for limited ground raids targeting strategic Iranian sites such as Kharg Island and areas near the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump has not authorized these operations. Iran warns of fierce resistance and retaliation.
The war in Iran persists with ongoing airstrikes and missile launches. Intelligence indicates Iran has preserved a substantial number of missiles and launchers, including underground reserves, and remains capable of regional strikes. US and allied forces report extensive targeting of Iran’s missile production and storage facilities, while Tehran continues to deploy missiles and drones in the region.
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has led to significant economic and military costs. The US has spent over $22 billion on operations, while Arab economies face losses up to $194 billion, with millions at risk of increased poverty and unemployment. The situation remains highly volatile as the war continues.
President Trump’s 2027 budget requests $1.5 trillion, with a 40% rise in military spending, the highest in modern history. It includes $73 billion in domestic cuts and aims to bolster defense, border enforcement, and law enforcement, sparking congressional debate.
The Biden administration has released a budget proposal emphasizing increased defense spending and reduced domestic programs. The plan, aligned with the ongoing Iran conflict, proposes significant cuts to climate, health, and social programs, while boosting military and law enforcement funding. Congress will negotiate the final budget.
On April 3-4, 2026, the White House unveiled a $1.5 trillion budget proposal for fiscal year 2027, marking a 40% increase in Pentagon spending—the largest since World War II. The plan prioritizes military funding to support ongoing operations in Iran, offset by $73 billion in cuts to domestic programs. The proposal faces political resistance amid concerns over rising deficits and social program reductions.
On April 3, 2026, Iran shot down a US F-15E fighter jet over southwestern Iran, marking the first US combat aircraft loss in the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran. One crew member was rescued after a frantic search-and-rescue operation, while the second remained missing. Iran called on civilians to capture the missing pilot, offering a $60,000 reward. A second US A-10 attack plane was also downed, with its pilot rescued. The incident escalates tensions as President Trump renews threats against Iran's infrastructure and demands the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours.
A US Air Force colonel and pilot were shot down over Iran last week. The colonel ejected from his jet, survived injuries, and evaded enemy forces in the Zagros Mountains for a day and a half before rescue. Both are in stable condition, with ongoing rescue efforts.
President Trump issued a 48-hour deadline to Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz, warning of severe consequences. The US is searching for a missing pilot after Iran shot down an F-15, with ongoing military and diplomatic tensions escalating in the region amid recent attacks and negotiations.
President Trump issued a deadline for Iran to make a deal, warning of military action as US and Iranian forces search for a missing pilot. The conflict has expanded with strikes on Iran's nuclear sites, retaliation in the Gulf, and regional missile exchanges, heightening global energy fears.
President Trump has emphasized the success of a daring US military rescue of two pilots in Iran, framing it as a military triumph amid ongoing tensions. The operation involved multiple aircraft and special forces, with Trump portraying it as a demonstration of US strength during a five-week-old war that remains unpopular domestically.
President Trump announced the successful rescue of a US Air Force colonel after his F-15 was shot down over Iran. The operation involved deep-in-country special forces and was completed without US casualties. Iran reported destruction of US aircraft and casualties during the rescue. Tensions escalate as Trump threatens attacks on Iranian infrastructure.
Iran fired multiple ballistic missiles at Israel, targeting Haifa and other areas, causing building collapses and injuries. Rescue efforts are ongoing for missing persons. The attacks follow Iran's retaliation for US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets since late February.
US forces have conducted a daring rescue in Iran, retrieving a stranded weapons officer after his F-15E jet was downed. The operation involved multiple aircraft, special forces, and deception tactics, with Iran claiming to have destroyed US aircraft. The rescue underscores ongoing US-Iran tensions and military risks.
An American airman has been rescued after his F-15E was shot down over Iran. He had spent more than a day in rugged Zagros terrain, signaling his survival with radio messages and coordinating with rescuers. A complex operation involved US forces, allied support, and diversion tactics to avoid Iranian capture.
On Easter Monday, President Trump attended the White House Easter Egg Roll, where he discussed ongoing military actions against Iran. He emphasized the importance of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, praised U.S. military achievements, and made controversial comments about Iran's leadership and natural resources. The event included traditional activities and a patriotic theme.
US forces have conducted a complex rescue operation in Iran, retrieving two downed F-15E pilots after their aircraft was shot down. The rescue involved dozens of aircraft, deception tactics, and took place amid ongoing tensions with Iran. Both pilots are reported to be safe.
On April 6, 2026, President Trump has threatened to jail the journalist who first reported the rescue of a second US airman shot down over Iran, demanding the source reveal itself under national security grounds. The administration has launched an investigation to identify the leaker amid escalating tensions and media criticism.
President Trump has issued a final deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, warning of potential military strikes on civilian infrastructure if Iran fails to comply. The threats have escalated tensions amid ongoing conflict, raising concerns over possible violations of international law and war crimes.
Recent assessments reveal Russian satellites conducted at least 24 surveys across 11 Middle Eastern countries in late March, sharing imagery with Iran. This activity preceded targeted missile and drone strikes on military sites, highlighting deepening military and cyber cooperation between Russia and Iran since Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
President Trump’s recent social media threats suggest willingness to violate international law, prompting criticism from human rights experts. Defense officials defend military actions, while political figures warn of potential war crimes. The story highlights escalating tensions and legal debates over U.S. military conduct in conflicts involving Iran, Ukraine, Gaza, and Lebanon.
Following a fragile two-week ceasefire, Iran has launched missile and drone attacks on Gulf Arab nations, including the UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain. These strikes target oil and energy infrastructure, raising concerns over the ceasefire's stability and regional security. The US and Iran remain engaged in negotiations.
After over five weeks of conflict, the US and Iran have agreed to a two-week ceasefire to facilitate negotiations. The US emphasizes preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons, with ongoing discussions about Iran's uranium enrichment rights and the removal of nuclear material. Military options remain on the table, including potential operations to seize uranium stockpiles.
The FAA has validated the safety of high-energy laser systems used by the Pentagon and Homeland Security along the U.S.-Mexico border. This follows tests in New Mexico and recent incidents that raised concerns. The agreement allows broader deployment to combat drone threats, with ongoing safety assessments in place.
On April 22, 2026, Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps has fired on at least three container ships in the Strait of Hormuz, damaging one vessel's bridge. This follows Iran's restrictions on the strait in response to US-Israeli attacks and a US blockade of Iranian ports. The US has extended a ceasefire with Iran, while international talks aim to secure navigation in the strait.
The Trump administration has maintained its campaign of attacking vessels in Latin American waters suspected of drug trafficking, resulting in at least 181 deaths since September. The military has not provided evidence that these vessels carry drugs, and critics question the legality of the strikes amid ongoing regional tensions.
US and Iran are engaging in ongoing negotiations in Pakistan, with recent talks indicating progress toward a ceasefire and nuclear agreement. The US reports Iran has agreed to stop enrichment and surrender uranium, while Iran emphasizes its right to continue civilian nuclear activities. Diplomatic efforts are intensifying, but key issues remain unresolved.
The US has continued its campaign against vessels it identifies as drug-trafficking boats in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific. Officials say several vessels have been destroyed with fatalities reported, though no public evidence has been released linking the targets to drug cargo. The White House asserts the actions are lawful and part of an armed conflict with cartels; critics call the strikes illegal and indiscriminate.
Iran has reopened the Strait of Hormuz following a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon. A convoy of oil tankers has crossed the waterway, the first major movement since the US and Israel launched their war on Iran seven weeks ago. The US has responded by initiating a naval blockade targeting ships attempting to leave Iran, aiming to pressure Tehran to accept US terms for ending the conflict. Oil prices have fallen about 10 percent, and global markets are reacting to the potential resumption of marine traffic. Iran warns it will not remain open if the US blockade continues, and uncertainty persists over Iran's nuclear negotiations and possible retaliation.
Since mid-April the U.S. has enforced a naval blockade on vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports and Iran has been firing on and seizing ships; only a tiny fraction of pre-war traffic is transiting the Strait of Hormuz, dozens of tankers are stuck in the Gulf and recent U.S. actions have redirected or intercepted multiple Iranian-flagged vessels.
Recent reporting has shown the Iran war has significantly drained US missile and interceptor stockpiles, forcing the Pentagon to reallocate munitions from other regions and ask Congress for emergency funding. At the same time, militaries are increasing investment in low-cost drones, counter-drone systems and battlefield robots — including Ukrainian systems and US-funded autonomous drone programs.
U.S. forces have completed the handover of major military sites in Syria to the Syrian government, following a deal with Kurdish-led forces and the Syrian regime. The withdrawal marks a shift in regional military presence, with Syria now assuming full control of former U.S. bases. The U.S. continues to support counterterrorism efforts without maintaining permanent outposts.
A fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran has been maintained, but negotiations have stalled. The US has canceled diplomatic visits, citing Iran's refusal to participate under current conditions. Iran blames US naval blockades and threats, while indirect diplomacy continues through regional mediators. The situation remains volatile with potential for escalation.
The Pentagon has requested roughly $54 billion for a newly formed Defense Autonomous Warfare Group (DAWG) in its 2027 budget, a more than hundredfold increase from about $226 million this year. The money would buy and test autonomous and remotely operated systems, expand drone logistics and counter-drone defenses, and accelerate AI-enabled strike and support platforms.
The US military has boarded and seized two Iranian tankers, the Tifani and Majestic X, in ongoing efforts to disrupt Iran's maritime support networks. The operations are part of a broader maritime enforcement campaign following a week-long blockade outside the Strait of Hormuz. The vessels are now in US custody, with the White House deciding their future. The US has also turned back dozens of Iranian ships attempting to enter or exit ports since the blockade began. These actions occur amid tense negotiations between Iran and the US, with Iran condemning the seizures as piracy. The US aims to prevent illicit oil transfers and weaken Iran's economic support, intensifying regional tensions.
The Pentagon has outlined a plan to triple spending on drones and critical munitions to over $74 billion, amid low stockpiles during the Iran conflict. The 2027 budget also includes increased troop numbers and shipbuilding requests, reflecting a focus on modern warfare technology.
The US has been discussing relocating 1,100 Afghan refugees, including military allies and families of US service members, from a Qatar base to third countries, with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as a possible option. The Trump administration halted Afghan visa processing in 2025, leaving refugees stranded and facing forced choices between returning to Taliban rule or resettlement in unstable countries.
Iranian forces have seized two ships and fired on a third in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions amid ongoing US and Iranian military actions. The ships were directed toward Iran’s coast after attempting to pass without permits. The incidents follow Iran’s re-imposition of restrictions in the waterway, despite a recent US ceasefire extension.
The ceasefire between the United States and Iran has been extended while Pakistan-brokered talks seek a unified proposal. The US maintains its naval blockade, and Iran has indicated it is still deciding on participation in peace talks in Islamabad. Oil markets react as tensions persist despite diplomacy.
Master Sgt. Gannon Ken Van Dyke has been indicted on charges including unlawful use of confidential information, theft, and fraud after prosecutors say he placed bets on Maduro-related events on Polymarket, profiting more than $400,000 during Operation Absolute Resolve. The indictment links the trading to classified information and to efforts to conceal proceeds.
The US has announced a redeployment of 5,000 troops from Germany, a move that has followed public tensions between President Trump and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over the Iran conflict. Berlin has dispatched naval vessels toward the Strait of Hormuz and is defending its limited role; US lawmakers and analysts are warning the withdrawal will complicate NATO posture and logistics across Europe.
The White House has laid out its rationale as the 60-day War Powers deadline approaches, arguing a ceasefire with Iran effectively stops the clock. Democrats and some Republicans are pushing for a wind-down or congressional authorization, while lawmakers brace for a possible battleground on Capitol Hill ahead of midterm elections.
Today, Iran has launched missiles, cruise missiles, drones and fast boats that have struck vessels and an oil facility in the UAE's Fujairah and the Strait of Hormuz. The US military has said it has fired on Iranian forces while escorting merchant ships through the strait and President Trump has warned Iran it will be "blown off the face of the earth" if it hits US ships.
The Trump administration has escalated its campaign of destroying alleged drug-trafficking vessels in Latin American waters. In the latest attacks, U.S. Southern Command has targeted vessels along known smuggling routes, with protests over the lack of publicly available evidence that these boats carried drugs. The operations come as the U.S. has expanded its regional military presence and ahead of a January raid linked to Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro.
The United States has paused its ship escort operation through the Strait of Hormuz as it pursues a peace deal with Iran. Officials say the blockade of Iranian ports remains in place while Washington tests an agreement, with Iran insisting on a fair, comprehensive settlement.
The Strait of Hormuz remains volatile as U.S. and Iranian forces exchange fire. The US has carried out self-defence strikes against Iranian targets, while Tehran accuses Washington of violating a ceasefire. Maritime incidents and threats to oil shipments have intensified amid broader regional hostilities.
The NYPD has warned of unprecedented security demands this summer as World Cup, NBA Finals, Sail 250, and July 4 celebrations converge. Commissioner Tisch has authorized drone-mitigation plans and 12-hour shifts, while coordinating with the FBI and federal regulators to protect crowds across New York City.
A federal judge has declined to halt President Trump's order to create a federal voter list, allowing continued consideration of the administration's plan to insert the federal government into election administration and to limit mail voting. Rulings stress that the order is not yet implemented, leaving potential harms hypothetical.
A Pew and AP-NORC analysis finds a divided public: most Americans are pessimistic about governance and the economy, yet a sizable share remain hopeful about the future and a long-term view for 2050. Younger adults show the strongest doubts about democracy and the American Dream.