US-Israel offensive puts Middle East on edge

The U.S. and Israel have launched a coordinated airstrike campaign against Iran, claiming it is necessary to counter an imminent threat. President Trump defended the ongoing operation, known as Operation Epic Fury, despite U.S. casualties, including four service members killed in Kuwait. The conflict has led to retaliatory strikes by Iran and its allies across the Middle East, affecting at least ten countries and causing significant disruption to regional air travel. In Washington, the operation faced criticism from Democrats for its lack of public support and high cost, with bipartisan efforts underway to limit the president's military actions in Iran.