Top Stories: March 17, 2026

Major developments are unfolding in Operation Epic Fury as the war with Iran enters its third week, with escalating military, political, and economic impacts across the region.

Israeli officials say Ali Larijani, head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, was killed in overnight airstrikes. Tehran has not confirmed the claim. Larijani was considered one of the most influential figures in Iran’s security leadership.

In Washington, Joe Kent has resigned from the National Counterterrorism Center, citing opposition to the war and accusing Israel of misleading Donald Trump about the expected timeline for victory.

International tensions are also rising. Leaders across Europe have rejected U.S. requests to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with several governments saying they were not consulted before the conflict began.

Meanwhile, France is pushing a diplomatic proposal to end fighting between Hezbollah and Israel in Lebanon. The plan would require Beirut to take the unprecedented step of formally recognizing Israel.

Global energy markets continue to react. Brent crude is trading near $103 a barrel after rising roughly three percent, as attacks on infrastructure and threats to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz disrupt global oil supply.