Iran fired a barrage of missiles at Israel early Thursday, forcing millions into bomb shelters as the U.S.-Israel war with Tehran entered its sixth day, hours after U.S. Republicans thwarted efforts to curb American airstrikes.
Missile Onslaught and Defenses
Air raid sirens blared across Israel, activating defenses against the Iranian volley amid ongoing escalation. Israeli military spokesperson Effie Defrin reported fewer daily launches but stressed the persistent threat, vowing intensified damage to diminish it. The strikes follow U.S. submarine actions sinking an Iranian warship off Sri Lanka and NATO intercepts of a missile aimed at Turkey, denied by Iran as respecting its “friendly” neighbor.
Senate Rejects War Powers Motion
Republican senators voted 53-47 against a Democratic-led resolution to halt U.S. air operations and mandate congressional approval, leaving President Trump’s war authority intact. The vote split along party lines, with nearly all Republicans opposing and Democrats supporting; only Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) bucked his party, joined by Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY). Trump has criticized such resolutions in the past, threatening political repercussions for dissenters.
Broader Conflict Spreads
The war has convulsed global markets, disrupted shipping through chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz, and stranded thousands fleeing the Middle East. Casualties include six U.S. service members and over 1,500 in Iran, with no NATO activation despite Turkish involvement. A frontrunner to succeed Iran’s slain Supreme Leader signals Tehran’s defiance amid U.S.-Israeli pressure.
House Echoes Senate Stance
The U.S. House similarly rejected a bipartisan bid to end unauthorized actions against Iran, voting 219-212 along mostly party lines, affirming support for the campaign. With Trump eyeing influence over Iran’s next leader, the conflict risks further widening beyond the Gulf.
