The United States launched new 'self-defense strikes' on Iran on June 10, 2026, escalating the conflict that began in late February. Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth promised to 'hit Iran hard' as President Trump grew impatient over stalled peace negotiations.
- The strikes followed Iran shooting down an American Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz on June 9. - Iran responded with counterattacks on U.S.
targets in Bahrain and Jordan, but Hegseth said most missiles missed. - Trump revealed a secret mission that moved 100 million barrels of oil through the Strait of Hormuz, and made controversial remarks about inflation hitting a three-year high.
The war and rising gas prices are expected to be a key issue in the 2026 midterm elections, with Republicans facing a tough fight to retain their House majority.