President Donald Trump addressed the nation last night, offering a public update on the ongoing conflict with Iran. He asserted the U.S. military’s “unstoppable” capabilities and predicted the war would conclude “shortly,” though without providing a specific timeline.

Trump Addresses Iran Conflict

In a prime-time address, Trump framed the conflict as essential for global security and outlined metrics for American success. He accused Iran’s regime of decades of destabilizing actions and alleged the country was developing its nuclear program at a new location. “We are on track and the country has been eviscerated and is essentially no longer a threat,” Trump proclaimed.

Despite this claim, Trump indicated the conflict would continue until military objectives are “fully achieved.” He warned, “Shortly, we’re going to hit them extremely hard,” and suggested further strikes over the next “two to three weeks” to bring Iran “back to the Stone Ages.” Discussions are reportedly ongoing, but Trump also threatened to target Iran’s electric generating plants if a deal isn’t reached.

Concerns Over Potential War Crimes

Trump’s threats to Iran’s civilian infrastructure have drawn criticism. A former U.S. ambassador for war crimes warned that such actions could constitute a war crime and potentially turn the U.S. into a “rogue state.” Despite Trump’s assertions, there is currently no indication that the Iranian government has lost power.

The conflict is also impacting global food security, with fertilizer shortages linked to the war threatening crop yields in Africa and Asia.

Artemis II Launches to the Moon

NASA’s Artemis II mission successfully launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, marking the agency’s return to crewed lunar missions after a 54-year hiatus. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman stated, “After a brief, 54-year intermission, NASA is back in the business of sending astronauts to the moon.”

The four-person crew – Reid Wiseman, Christina Koch, Victor Glover, and Jeremy Hansen – are embarking on a 10-day journey around Earth and the moon, paving the way for a planned moon landing in 2028. Spectators along Florida’s “Space Coast” expressed excitement about witnessing the historic launch. One attendee, Todd Seymour, recalled watching the Apollo 11 mission as a child.

Mission Details

The Artemis II astronauts will have a busy schedule in space, focused on testing systems and preparing for future lunar missions.

Other News

  • Republican leaders announced a two-track plan to end the shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security, potentially resembling a previously approved Senate bill.
  • The Supreme Court heard arguments regarding Trump’s attempt to limit birthright citizenship.
  • Doctors are expressing concern over a potential resurgence of Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), a dangerous vaccine-preventable disease, due to declining vaccination rates.

The CDC reported a drop in Hib vaccination rates, with 77.5% of babies receiving the full series in 2021, down from 78.8% in 2019. This decline, along with similar trends in other vaccinations, is prompting doctors to reassess their approach to treating young patients.

Other Notable Updates: The FDA approved Foundayo, a new weight loss pill. DNA evidence has closed a 50-year-old murder case linked to serial killer Ted Bundy. Hershey will resume using real chocolate in most products.