Latest Politics News
59% of Americans Disapprove of US Iran Strikes
A CNN poll conducted by SSRS found that nearly 6 in 10 Americans disapprove of the US decision to take military action against Iran, with majorities expressing doubts about President Trump's handling of the situation. Most Americans lack trust in Trump's decision-making on Iran, with 60% saying he lacks a clear plan and 62% saying he should seek congressional approval for further military action.
Trump Says War With Iran Could Continue for Weeks
President Trump indicated the United States would continue attacking Iran for as long as necessary to render it incapable of posing a threat, suggesting the conflict could expand in the coming weeks. Trump stated that while the initial projection was four to five weeks, the US has the capability to sustain operations far longer.
Six US Service Members Killed in Iran Conflict
The death toll for US service members rose to six on Monday as military operations against Iran continue. The Trump administration has not disclosed the total number of wounded personnel.
France Increases Nuclear Warheads for First Time in Decades
French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will increase its nuclear warhead stockpile for the first time in decades, stating that 'to be free, we have to be feared.' Macron delivered the nuclear strategy update in a keynote speech from a military base hosting the nation's ballistic missile submarines.
Middle East Conflict Enters Fourth Day with Expanding Strikes
Violent escalation between US, Israeli, and Iranian forces has entered its fourth day, with US and Israeli military strikes against Iran followed by Iranian counter-strikes hitting targets across the region. The escalation has disrupted airspace and transport routes, caused civilian casualties, and raised fears of broader regional instability including in Lebanon and the Gulf.
Hezbollah Fires Rockets at Israel in Response to Khamenei Assassination
Hezbollah fired rockets and drones toward Israel overnight between March 1-2 in response to the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, according to UN reports. Israel subsequently carried out retaliatory strikes against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon.
UN Security Council Debates Iran Sanctions Mechanism
Council members were unable to reach agreement on the provisional program of work for March due to China and Russia objecting to a briefing on the 1737 Sanctions Committee concerning Iran. The disagreement stems from disputes over triggering the 'snapback' mechanism to reimpose UN sanctions on Iran that had been suspended under the JCPOA.
Global Markets Plunge on Iran Military Strikes
European markets crashed on Monday morning as investors reacted to US-Israeli military operations against Iran, which have caused major disruptions to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The conflict has triggered sharp rises in oil and gas prices while airline share prices have fallen.
Oil Prices Surge Amid Middle East Tensions
Military strikes in Iran have increased demand for liquid safe havens and lifted WTI crude oil prices to around $74.00 per barrel, supporting energy exporters like Canada relative to energy importers. Geopolitical developments continue to add a safe-haven bid to currency markets amid the conflict.
Trump Administration War Objectives Include Nuclear Proliferation Prevention
US President Trump outlined main military objectives including destroying Iran's missile capabilities, wiping out its naval capacity, and preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. Other stated war aims include ensuring the Iranian regime can no longer fund militant groups outside its borders.
EU Expresses Concern Over Middle East Escalation
EU top diplomat Kayak Kalas warned that further escalation in the Middle East could threaten the region, with the EU taking steps to ensure safety of EU citizens. Spain and Slovenia blocked stronger EU language, with Madrid condemning the US-Israeli strikes on Iran.
UN to Vote on Afghanistan Mission Mandate Extension
Council members are expected to vote on a draft resolution extending the mandate of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan ahead of its March 17 expiry. Prior to the vote, there will be an open briefing and closed consultations on the Afghanistan situation.