The US military's Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed that US forces have shot down Iranian missiles and drones across the Middle East, in response to recent attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain. This comes as a California tech CEO, Jamshid Ghomi, was arrested for allegedly supplying US equipment to Iran's nuclear and military programs. Ghomi, a dual Iranian and US citizen, is charged with conspiracy to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The US has also rebuked Iran's claim that damage at Kuwait International Airport was caused by American operations, instead of Tehran. Former Vice President Mike Pence praised President Trump's approach towards Iran, describing it as a necessary response to Iran's role as a leading state sponsor of terrorism. Government watchdogs have launched a formal accountability review of spending tied to Operation Epic Fury, a military operation that has faced scrutiny for its economic impact. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent detailed the Treasury Department's efforts to halt Iran's shadow fleet and their movement of Iranian oil, emphasizing the disruption of the Iranian economy and war machine. Bessent also highlighted the severe economic impact of US pressure on Iran, including inflation rates above 200% and over 50% of the army not being paid. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed hope for a resolution between Israel and Lebanon in the Hezbollah conflict, emphasizing the need for a paradigm where both countries can work together to disarm Hezbollah. Romanian foreign minister Oana-Silvia Ţoiu confirmed that Bucharest answered the Trump administration's call for allied support in the Middle East by allowing the use of Romanian military bases for defensive activities. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia condemned Iran's strikes on Kuwait and Bahrain as 'aggression and blatant violation' of sovereignty. House Speaker Mike Johnson indicated his opposition to a forthcoming vote on an Iran War Powers Resolution, suggesting a shift towards peace negotiations.
