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The Pentagon estimates the war with Iran has cost $25 billion, though sources suggest the true figure could reach $50 billion due to unincluded repair costs. Officials defended the ongoing conflict, calling it an "existential fight" and dismissing concerns of it becoming a "quagmire."

Over 287 candidates, including Donald Trump, are vying for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize. The Norwegian Nobel Committee Secretary noted significant renewal among nominees, emphasizing the prize's enduring relevance amidst global conflicts. While nominations are confidential, leaders from Cambodia, Israel, and Pakistan have reportedly put Trump forward, though this doesn't guarantee an endorsement.

Iran is reviewing a US proposal, with a response expected soon, potentially via Pakistani mediators. Tehran prioritizes a full war cessation and sanctions relief over nuclear talks, seeking UN Security Council guarantees.

MacKenzie Scott, Jeff Bezos' ex-wife, has donated over $26 billion, but a recent $5 million gift to the Solidaire Network is under scrutiny. This network supports groups like Students for Justice in Palestine, which us lawmakers are investigating for potential ties to militant groups. Despite this, Scott's massive, unrestricted giving continues to transform institutions.

Iran and its allies have reportedly damaged sixteen United States military sites across eight Middle Eastern nations. CNN reports, citing satellite images and official interviews, reveal significant degradation of radar, communications, and aircraft facilities. This conflict has already cost the US billions. Gulf allies expressed concerns about the alliance's resilience.

The Trump administration asserts the U.S. is not at war with Iran, despite approaching the War Powers Resolution's 60-day deadline. House Speaker Mike Johnson echoed this, stating no congressional authorization is needed as active hostilities have ceased. This stance, however, faces challenges from Democrats who argue the deadline remains binding.

The US State Department has fast-tracked over $8 billion in arms sales to Israel and Gulf allies, bypassing Congress via emergency powers. Citing regional threats, Secretary Rubio approved precision weaponry and missile defense systems. This move escalates a dispute over executive authority, with President Trump deeming war powers limits unconstitutional amid rising Iran tensions.

US President Trump ordered the withdrawal of approximately 5,000 US troops from Germany following a public dispute with Chancellor Merz over the war in Iran. This move, seen as punitive, signals a growing rift in the transatlantic alliance and raises questions about US commitment to NATO, despite Trump's German heritage.

US President Trump has declared hostilities with Iran have ended, despite ongoing US troop presence and persistent regional tensions. This assertion, made in a letter to Congress, aims to bypass the War Powers Resolution's requirement for military action authorization.

The USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group is heading home from the Middle East after an extended 10-month deployment, reducing US naval power amid ongoing Iran tensions. This withdrawal, despite stalled diplomatic efforts and continued blockade enforcement, marks the longest deployment for a modern US carrier, raising concerns about crew and vessel readiness.

For the first time in 23 years, the U.S. has three aircraft carriers in the Middle East, accompanied by 12 ships and 15,000 soldiers. This significant military presence signals readiness for renewed conflict should the fragile ceasefire with Iran collapse. The deployment occurs amid ongoing diplomatic tensions and Iran's reblocking of the Strait of Hormuz.