Iran launched retaliatory missile strikes on U.S. bases in Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan after the U.S. responded to a downed helicopter, escalating Middle East tensions and threatening peace negotiations. Primary elections in Maine, Nevada, North Dakota, and South Carolina set matchups for November, including Democrat Graham Plattner's challenge to Senator Susan Collins. Congress approved $70 billion for ICE and Border Patrol through 2029 with fewer oversight requirements than standard appropriations bills. Trump faces a no-win situation where failing to respond to Iranian actions risks appearing weak, but responding escalates tensions that could spiral into larger conflict.