Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Geopolitics
AP News · Reuters · BBC
Israel's Defense Minister says Esmail Khatib has been "eliminated" in an overnight strike. This marks another major escalation in the US-Israeli war against Iran now in its third week. Iran has not yet formally commented on the killing of its intelligence chief. [Reuters] [BBC Live]
Geopolitics
AP News · Reuters
National Counterterrorism Center Director Joe Kent resigned, saying Iran posed no imminent threat and that Trump "started this war due to pressure from Israel and its powerful American lobby." Kent is the latest senior official to depart over the escalating Middle East conflict. [BBC]
Geopolitics
BBC News
In an exclusive interview with the BBC, Ukrainian President Zelensky said Putin wants a "long war" between the US and Iran. Ukraine's missile supplies are being diverted to support the Middle East conflict, leaving Kyiv increasingly vulnerable as the war in Europe grinds on. [AP]
Tech & Science
AP News
A seven-ton meteor falling from the Cleveland sky created a fireball visible from several states away. NASA confirmed the object fell near Cleveland, breaking the sound barrier and causing a loud boom. The event drew widespread attention as witnesses captured the dramatic light show. [BBC Video]
Tech & Science
BBC News
With India's semaglutide patent expiring on March 20, about 50 branded generics are expected to enter the market. This could dramatically lower the cost of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs globally, potentially making obesity treatment accessible to millions who currently cannot afford it.
Geopolitics
BBC News
Tehran residents tell the BBC they're caught between US-Israeli bombing and an Iranian regime trying to reassert its power. The human toll of the escalating conflict continues to mount as both sides show no signs of de-escalation.