Iran and Israel trade deadly strikes as tensions widen

Israel killed two senior Iranian security officials, including Ali Larijani and Gen. Gholam Reza Soleimani, in a major escalation of the war, prompting Iran to launch multiple-warhead missiles at central Israel. Two people were killed near Tel Aviv, and Gulf Arab states including Saudi Arabia and Kuwait reported intercepting Iranian missiles and drones aimed at their territory.

In Washington, National Counterterrorism Center Director Joe Kent resigned, saying he could not support President Donald Trump's war strategy and arguing that Iran posed no imminent threat. Trump also postponed a planned trip to China as he focuses on the conflict and efforts to secure cooperation over Middle Eastern oil routes.

On Capitol Hill, Republicans began a prolonged Senate debate over stricter voter registration requirements demanded by Trump, though the measure is expected to fail. Meanwhile, Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton won the Democratic primary for United States Senate, setting up a general election contest in November.

Elsewhere, Cuba faced deepening economic turmoil and widespread blackouts, while severe storms disrupted thousands of flights across the United States. In Georgia, a gunman was killed after opening fire at a Department of Veterans Affairs clinic. Venezuela defeated the United States to win its first World Baseball Classic title, rallying late for a 3-2 victory.