Monday, 2 March 2026

Trump announced that the Iran conflict could last four to five weeks but acknowledged it could extend far longer, while declining to rule out sending ground troops. The president stated he ordered attacks to thwart Tehran's nuclear aims and indicated willingness to engage in talks with Iran as the conflict deepens across the Middle East.

The U.S.-Israel military operation against Iran has dramatically expanded across the Middle East with hundreds reportedly killed in Iran since Saturday. U.S. allies in Gulf states came under attack from Iranian missiles and drones, and three U.S. fighter jets were mistakenly shot down by Kuwait with all six crew members surviving.

Trump criticized the UK for taking 'far too long' to allow U.S. use of its airbases to attack Iran and expressed disappointment in Prime Minister Keir Starmer over the UK's agreement to hand the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. Starmer stated the UK is 'not joining strikes' on Iran but will continue defensive action.

Spain denied the U.S. permission to use jointly operated military bases at Rota and Morón to attack Iran, following Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's condemnation of the U.S.-Israeli action. Spain's refusal contrasts with the UK's conditional authorization of base usage.

Melania Trump addressed the UN Security Council urging protection of children's education following reports that an airstrike killed 165 people and injured 96 others at a girls' school in Iran. The First Lady's remarks came as part of broader diplomatic response to the escalating conflict.

Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth stated in a combative press conference that the U.S. won't get 'bogged down' in Iran but refused to establish a timeline for the operation or rule out sending troops. Hegseth dodged questions about the goals of the military operation.

The Middle East crisis pushed oil prices higher and could drive inflation rises, with experts warning that an extended conflict could lead to higher interest rates and reduced economic growth. Shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on refineries threaten global supplies.

The U.S. Department of Education hung a banner of Charlie Kirk outside its DC building, sparking criticism as Kirk is a polarizing figure known for making incendiary, racist, and sexist comments. The display reflects broader changes in how the Trump administration is approaching education policy.

Trump's physician confirmed the president is using a 'very common cream' for a neck rash as a 'preventative' skin treatment but declined to provide details about the condition or medication. The rash has prompted questions about Trump's health.

Democrats faced internal disarray over Trump's Iran offensive, with lawmakers from Bernie Sanders to Mark Kelly expressing mixed feelings about the military action and the killing of Iran's supreme leader. The party showed divisions on foreign policy response to the conflict.