NPR News: 07-20-2026 4AM EDT

Dan Ronan· Host0:00

Live from NPR News in Washington, I'm Dan Ronan. The US completed another round of strikes against Iran for the ninth consecutive night. Three US service members have been killed since Friday, according to Central Command, as fighting between the US and Iran escalates and the month-long ceasefire breaks down. NPR's Lydia Calitri reports while some administration officials say the war effort should continue, other lawmakers are voicing their concerns.

Lydia Calitri0:30

Energy Secretary Chris Wright told ABC's This Week that while the service members' deaths are a tragic loss for the country, the administration's mission for the war should continue.

Speaker 30:38

The president's mission is essential for peace in the Middle East and peace in the world, and that is to prevent Iran from achieving nuclear weapons and to degrade their ability to terrorize their neighbors and the world and global commerce.

Lydia Calitri0:53

But Democratic Senator Mark Warner is calling President Trump's decision to go to war with Iran a disaster.

Mark Warner· Soundbite0:59

It has been a disaster militarily. It has been a disaster in terms of how we're viewed around the world. It has been a disaster to our friends and the allies who question whether we will keep our promises.

Lydia Calitri1:10

At least 17 US service members have died since the war began in February. Lydia Calitri, NPR News.

Dan Ronan· Host1:16

Spain is the 2026 World Cup champion, defeating rival Argentina 1-0 Sunday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. NPR's Becky Sullivan covered the tournament and reports Spain's defense