(NewsNation) As tensions escalate between the United States and Iran, the threat of sleeper cells has "never been higher," according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, although no specific or credible threats have yet emerged.In a memo obtained by NewsNation, CBP CommissionerRodney Scott said, "Thousands of Iranian nationals have been documented entering the United States illegally and countless more were likely in the known and unknown got-a-ways.While there is no current actionable intelligence, Scott emphasized the need for vigilance: Though we have not received any specific credible threats the threat of sleeper cells or sympathizers acting on their own, or at the behest of Iran has never been higher."What are sleeper cells, and how do they operate?Sleeper cells are spies or terrorists who operate in rival countries and remain inactive until they are essentially ordered to act.NewsNation national security contributor Tracy Walder explained that while the concept of Iranian sleeper cells in the U.S. is not new, there may have been a recent influx of agents. Timeline: How US conducted bombings on Iranian nuclear sitesThey have sleeper cells here. Quite frankly, they have for decades. They are just waiting for the right moment," Walder said.A recent Homeland Security threat assessment confirms that Iran remains a primary state sponsor of terrorism and continues efforts to target both current and former U.S. officials. That assessment echoes similar warnings issued by the Biden administration in 2024.How do sleeper cells recruit and train?Recruitment is typically done through networks, religious institutions or online platforms like social media. Recruiters typically appeal to emotions, such as alienation, injustice or religious duty.Who are Irans allies in the Middle East?Retired FBI Supervisory Special Agent James Gagliano underscored the long-term nature of the threat, referencing the 2020 U.S. airstrike that killed Iranian General Qassem Soleimani."Iran has basically been on a warpath for us," he said. "The sleeper cells are a real problem. ... It's people leaking across ... from Iran, China, North Korea, Russia that might stay dormant until they're either inspired or, in this case, with the supreme leader in Iran directed to cause some type of mayhem or harm."What have past attacks taught us?Identifying sleeper cells is extremely difficult. Walter pointed out that some individuals may be homegrown or enter the U.S. undetected. She noted that even when they arrive legally, they "lead these seemingly normal lives," and don't draw any attention to themselves until it's too late."If you go back as far as to September 11, those individuals had actually entered the US legally," Walder said. "Had we checked their visas properly, obviously we would have known, because we know that now, but that's the difficult part of all of this.""They have to get messages in some way. They have to get a signal in some way, and that's where I'm hoping they will slip up and we will ultimately catch them," she continued.Iran's next move could cost Americans at the gas pumpHow can the public stay informed and vigilant?Following the recent U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, the State Department issued a worldwide cautionsecurity alert warning of heightened risks.Similarly, the Department of Homeland Security issued aNational Terrorism Advisory System Bulletin, advising vigilance without encouraging fear.Officials urge the public to monitor official alerts from DHS, local law enforcement and the FBI and to report suspicious activity through the "If You See Something, Say Something" campaign.Rich McHugh, Diana Falzone and Patrick Djordjevic contributed to this report.

(NewsNation) An Iranian airstrike on a U.S. air base in Qatar on Monday again raises concerns over the extent of Iran's missile and nuclear capabilities as its ongoing conflict with Israel in the Middle East continues.A defense official confirmed to NewsNation that Al-Udeid Air Base was attacked by short-range and medium-range ballistic missiles. NewsNation reported Monday that Qatar's air defense system was able to intercept all of the missiles and that there were no casualties at the base, where 10,000 American troops are stationed.Retired Special Forces Lt. Col. Mike Nelson, who has extensive experience with U.S. Central Command, told NewsNation on Monday that several factors, including the fact that Iran communicated the strike in advance and then fired the exact number of weapons as the U.S. did on its attack on Fordow, show Irans intent.Nelson told NewsNation that Monday's airstrike involving the air base was a pure face-saving measure and that Iran did not wish to escalate the conflict or cause casualties by targeting the U.S. base.Iran's nuclear weapons threatInternational scrutiny of Irans nuclear and missile programs has intensified since 2024, when Israel and Iran exchanged direct missile attacks, the Council on Foreign Relations reported. However, the American foreign-policy driven think tank indicated that if Iran were able to obtain nuclear weapons, it would be broadly destabilizing to the Middle East and surrounding regions.On June 13, the Israel Defense Forces warned thatIran is closer than ever to obtaining a nuclear weapon, calling it an existential threat to the world.Iran does not currently have a nuclear weapon, but Western analysts say it has the knowledge and infrastructure to produce one in fairly short order if its leaders chose. Iran has a long history of secret nuclear weapons research, the Council on Foreign Relations reported. However, as recently as October, U.S. intelligence officialstold Reutersthey still believed Iran had decided not to build a nuclear weapon after suspending its program in 2003.Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Air Force Gen. Dan Caine discusses the mission details of a strike on Iran during a news conference at the Pentagon on June 22 in Arlington, Virginia. U.S. President Donald Trump gave an address to the nation last night after three Iranian nuclear facilities were struck by the U.S. military. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)The United States, Israel and other Middle Eastern allies view Iran as a primary threat to their interests in the region and see Irans potential acquisition of nuclear weapons as a game-changing scenario to be steadfastly prevented.Iran has maintained a civilian nuclear energy program for more than 50 years and has repeatedly said that its nuclear program only serves peaceful purposes. In March, President Donald Trump and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that the two sides would host bilateral talks in Oman over Irans nuclear program. However, Iran announced after it attacked Israel this month that it was pulling out of nuclear talks with the U.S., which were scheduled for June 15. Trump said Iran had "missed an opportunity" to make a deal but that it may have a chance to still reach an agreement before it is too late.A source close to the White House told NewsNation on Monday that while Trump is considering a regime change in Iran, the president would much rather strike a peace treaty than wage a potentially bloody war.On Saturday night, however, after the U.S. attacked three key Iranian nuclear sites, Trump said Iran's main nuclear sites had been obliterated. However, despite Trump's claims, NBC News reported that almost 880 pounds of uranium that is enriched to 60% are publicly unaccounted for. Trump said in an address to the nation after the strike that if Iran did not seek peace, future U.S. attacks on Iranian interests could be much more serious. How long would Iran need to develop a nuclear weapon?Some analysts have suggested that Iran could produce enough fissile material, including uranium, for a nuclear weapon in just a few months, the Council on Foreign Relations stated. Others have suggested that enough material could be developed in a matter of weeks but that actually developing a nuclear weapon would likely take longer.In 2024, then-U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that Iran could produce enough fissile material required for a nuclear weapon in one to two weeks.However, officials warn that if Iran were able to develop a nuclear weapon and test it in the not-too-distant future, Iran will overnight diminish any power that Israel or America have in the region.What other missiles does Iran have?Iran has proven, based on airstrikes delivered against Israel in 2024, that it has an array of air power capabilities, including cruise and ballistic missiles as well as drones. U.S. intelligence officials have indicated that they believe Iran has the largest ballistic missile inventory in the entire Middle East. The range capability of the missiles varies from 800 miles to more than 1,200 miles.Irans longest-range missiles are reportedly capable of striking targets of up to about 1,240 miles away, which would cover all of the Middle East and part of Europe. Weapons experts told the think tank that larger, more conventional warheads could kill or injure hundreds of people in a dense urban setting.In 2022,U.S. Central Commandestimatedthat Iran had over 3,000ballistic missiles in its arsenal, some of which could reach Tel Aviv.Despite its vast arsenal, Iran has not yet tested or deployed a missile capable of striking the United States, though it continues to develop long-range missiles through its space-launch program, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies.NewsNations Andrew Dorn contributed reporting this this story

A federal judge had previously said people must get at least 15 days to challenge their deportations.(Image credit: Justin Hamel)

The U.S. entered Israel's war against Iran over the weekend, dropping bombs and firing missiles on three Iranian nuclear enrichment facilities. We hear from some experts on whether they think the attacks were successful in damaging or destroying Iran's ability to make a nuclear weapon. And Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has long had sights on attacking Iran but until recently that ambition seemed to be sidelined by President Trump. Now Netanyahu's basking in the moment after the U.S. joined in on the war against Iran. For more coverage of all sides of this conflict, go to npr.org/mideastupdates (Image credit: CHARLIE RIEDEL)

Faith is an integral part of millions of Americans daily lives. One Nation Under God is committed to reflecting Americas voices, values and communities, covering stories of faith and religion, from the latest headlines to stories of hope. Subscribe here.(NewsNation) Since the United States' strikes on three nuclear sites in Iran, churches and other houses of worship across the country have begun to pray intensely for peace. But is aggression ever morally justifiable, according to religious traditions? The short answer is yes, under certain circumstances.Heres a quick snapshot of the just war theory, according to different philosophical and faith traditions.Cicero's 'just war' theoryThe just war theory dates back to ancient Rome. Cicero, the Roman statesman and philosopher, was one of the earliest thinkers to articulate a theory of just war (in Latin known as bellum iustum). His approach, grounded in natural law and Roman legal tradition, emphasized morality, justice and the rule of law in warfare.New Texas law will require Ten Commandments to be posted in every public school classroomAccording to Cicero, a war is only just if its undertaken for a just cause, primarily self-defense or the defense of one's nation. Cicero said ambition or conquest are not a legitimate cause, but restoring justice is."Wars ought to be waged for this purpose, that we may live in peace without suffering wrong, Cicero wrote in "De Officiis (On Duties)."In his writings, Cicero outlined a few key principles related to war or military aggression. He said only legitimate public authorities, not private individuals, can declare and wage war. War must be formally declared and preceded by negotiation, not sudden aggression. During war, justice and humanity must be preserved. And war must be aimed at establishing a just and stable peace.Pope Leo XIV says there should be no tolerance for abuse in Catholic ChurchCicero laid the groundwork for later thinkers on just war in both the Roman and Christian traditions. His emphasis on natural law, public authority and moral restraint became the foundation for the Western just war tradition.War and justice in HinduismHinduism has a deep and nuanced tradition regarding war and justice, found in sacred texts such as the Mahabharata and the Bhagavad Gita, an ancient Sanskrit epic that dates back to the second or first century B.C.While Hinduism does not have a systematic just war theory in the same way as Cicero, it offers profound moral guidance on when war is acceptable, how it is to be conducted, and the inner disposition a warrior should have.According to the Bhagavad Gita, a war should only be fought to defend "dharma," the moral and cosmic order. Warriors have a sacred duty to defend society, but that duty should be guided by moral righteousness, not personal desire.The ethical rules of engagement during war include not attacking the unarmed, wounded or fleeing, and not fighting at night or outside the battlefield. Opponents should fight on equal terms. For example, horseman vs. horseman. One should not strike an enemy who is turned away, who seeks refuge, who is asleep or who is without a weapon, according to the Mahabharata.In Hinduism, war is always a last resort. Ancient Hindu sacred text emphasize the futility of war and the suffering it causes. Victory breeds hatred. The defeated lives in pain. The wise live in peace, giving up both victory and defeat, according to the Bhagavad Gita.'Just war' theory in ChristianitySt. Augustine of Hippo (354-430 A.D.) is considered the founder of the just war theory in Christian thought. He took Greek and Roman ideas, especially from Cicero, and developed them through a Christian lens, offering the first coherent Christian doctrine of just war. He deeply influenced later thinkers, including St. Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274).Pope Leo concerned about AIs impact on childrenAccording to Augustine, war is the tragic result of human sin and is not part of Gods original plan. He said war is not good but sometimes morally necessary in a fallen world to protect the innocent, punish evil or restore peace.Augustine wrestled with the paradox of a peaceful religion, Christianity, that permitted war. His answer: War can be a form of charity if it protects people. A soldier can love his enemy and still fight if his goal is peace and his actions are just.Centuries later, St. Thomas Aquinas provided the most systematic formulation of the just war theory. His ideas are primarily found in the Summa Theologiae.200 Christians brutally killed in Nigeria: ReportAquinas lays out three essential criteria for a war to be just. War should be declared by someone with legitimate authority and acts for the common good (i.e. a government or ruler, not private individuals). There must be a real and morally grave reason for the war: to avenge a wrong, defend the nation or restore justice. And the motive must be to promote good and avoid evil, particularly the restore of peace.What does Islam say about just war?Islam developed its own version of the just war theory, although it is not framed in the same way as Christian or Western thought.Islamic teachings on war and peace are rooted in the Qur'an, sayings of the Prophet Muhummad and later Islamic jurisprudence or Sharia law.Persian princess marries in interfaith unionIslamic just war theory overlaps with classical just war theory, specifically regarding legitimate authority, just cause, and conduct in war.Islam emphasizes peace as the preferred path and views war as a last resort, permissible only under certain circumstances. War is permitted in self-defense, to end religious persecution or to uphold treaties or defend allies.What is jihad in Islam?Jihad literally means struggle or striving in the path of God. It is a broad spiritual and moral concept, not limited to warfare.Jihad can refer to ones inner struggle against sin, laziness, injustice or ignorance. It includes efforts to improve, grow spiritually and live a moral life.Justin Bieber still a Jesus guy amid social media dramaJihad can also refer to armed struggle. It is only allowed in the following circumstances: for self-defense, fighting oppression, restoring justice or securing religious freedom.According to the Quran, jihad does not justify terrorism or forced conversions. The killing of the innocent is strictly forbidden.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. On Saturday, President Donald Trump announced that the United States bombed three nuclear sites in Iran.The operational strike was completed by B-2 pilots from Whiteman Air Force Base in Knob Noster, Missouri. Now, the city is taking steps to ensure the safety of residents and military members.Iran launches missile attack on US military base in QatarNewsNation affiliate WDAF spoke with Knob Noster's mayor on Monday, who said the city is taking extra security precautions after the bombings.Knob Noster Mayor Garret Carter refused to go into detail about the precautionary measures being takenbut did confirm that the city is preparing."Yes, we have taken extra precautions," Mayor Carter told WDAF .Trump wants peace treaty with Iran over US troops on the ground: SourceHe said that if the city were to be targeted, he believes the Air Force base would be the primary target."I do believe that most of the targeting, if anything were to happen, would be towards the installation not directly towards the community," Mayor Carter said. "I don't fear or have fear at this moment."At this time, I don't see any reason for fear; I feel like we're situated well enough in the continental U.S. that we're fairly safe."Russia ready to back Iran amid Middle East tensions, Kremlin saysThe mayor told FOX4 that no known threats have been brought to his attention as of Monday afternoon.On Monday, Iran launched an attack against a U.S. Air Force base in Qatarin response to Saturday's attack. Qatar said it successfully intercepted the short- and medium-range ballistic missiles.This is a developing situation. Stay with FOX4 for the latest updates.

(NewsNation) Russia is prepared to support Iran in its ongoing conflict in the Middle East, but Tehran must first communicate its requests, according to a Kremlin spokesperson. Russian spokespersonDmitry Peskovtold reporters Monday that the assistance "depends on what the Iranian side, what our Iranian friends say,"according to TASS, Russia's state-run news agency."We have offered our mediation efforts. This is concrete," Peskov said. "We have stated our position, which is also a very important form of support for the Iranian side. Going forward, everything will depend on what Iran needs at this moment."Who are Irans allies in the Middle East?Russian PresidentVladimir Putin plans to meet with Iranian Foreign MinisterAbbas Araghchion Monday to "exchange views in the wake of this traumatic escalation," Peskov said. Trump fires back at Medvedev over 'nuclear' commentsMeanwhile, President Donald Trump fired back at Dmitry Medvedev, the former Russian president and an ally of Vladimir Putin, for saying he's "pushed the US into another war," and that countries are "ready to directly supply Iran with their own nuclear warheads."Writing on social media, Trump said, "Did I hear Former President Medvedev, from Russia, casually throwing around the 'N word' (Nuclear!), and saying that he and other Countries would supply Nuclear Warheads to Iran? Did he really say that or, is it just a figment of my imagination?"Iran's next move could cost Americans at the gas pump"If he did say that, and, if confirmed, please let me know, IMMEDIATELY. The 'N word' should not be treated so casually. I guess that's why Putin's 'THE BOSS.'"All of this comes in the way of Trump announcing Saturday night that bunker-busting bombers destroyed three Iranian nuclear facilities.

(NewsNation) President Donald Trump stated that he was considering a regime change in Iran. However, a source close to the White House told NewsNation he would much rather strike a peace treaty than wage a potentially costly, bloody war.Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, Its not politically correct to use the term, Regime Change, but if the current Iranian Regime is unable to MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN, why wouldnt there be a Regime change??? MIGA!!!A source close to the White House told NewsNation on Monday that Trump has no desire to send U.S. troops into a war zone.Trump signals support for regime change in Iran after air strikesPresident Trump has no desire to send troops into another war zone; he wants to avoid that at all costs. Iran isnt sitting on some massive weapons stockpile. China doesnt want to get dragged into this, and Russia is locked into Ukraine. That leaves Iran increasingly isolated, with drained resources and a crumbling regime.The source added, The presidents message is simple: They can either choose a bloodbath, or they can choose a deal. President Trump is far more interested in securing a historic agreement than escalating another conflict.Vice President JD Vance told ABC News, We dont want to achieve regime change. We want to achieve the end of the Iranian nuclear program. Thats what the president set us out to do.A similar sentiment was echoed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who stated on Sunday, We're not into the regime change business here.Were into the safety and security of the United States business.White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt offered insight into Trumps remarks, The president was just simply raising a question that I think many people around the world are asking. If the Iranian regime refuses to engage in talks, why shouldnt the Iranian people rise up against this brutal terrorist regime?State Department issues worldwide caution security alertThe source close to The White House opined that, were not under any illusions about turning Iran into a democracy overnight. What the president wants is a stable, functional outcome, one that stops the world from living on edge, especially our allies in Israel, who shouldnt have to take cover in bomb shelters every day.Regime change could mean US troops in Iran: Retired Navy commanderWard Carroll, a retired commander in the U.S. Navy with fifteen years of experience in F-14 Tomcats, and host of the Ward Carroll YouTube channel, told NewsNation that the U.S. attack on Iran, Midnight Hammer, on Saturday was a "tactical military success but the mention of a regime change raises his concern.The issue here is engaging in a forever war like we got into with Afghanistan when we conflated al Qaeda with the Taliban. There's a big difference between conducting effective tactical strikes and nation building, Carroll said to NewsNation.Satellite photos: See before and after images of bombing at Iran nuke sitesThe retired Navy commander said it was a good thing the Iranian nuclear program was set back, but said a regime change would require boots on the ground.The cost of that would be high in blood and treasure, Carroll said.Mike Nelson, a retired Special Forces lieutenant colonel with extensive experience CENTCOM, said to NewsNation that while a regime change would be good for the U.S., its not easily achievable.If the President is pursuing regime change, that is a much heavier lift than what he has previously discussed and would require a lot of regional and international assistance with the transition, Nelson said.Trump wants peace deal, not war with Iran: SourceThe source close to the White House says that Trump would prefer a peace treaty with Iran rather than a lengthy war.President Trump sees the potential for another Abraham Accords-style peace deal. Thats what he wants: Real results, real peace, they say. Hes personally invested in finishing what he started and securing lasting stability in the Middle East.

Journalist Carter Sherman says that members of Gen Z are having less sex than previous generations due in part to the political and social climate. Her new book is The Second Coming.

A U.S. defense official confirmed that the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar "was attacked by short-range and medium-range ballistic missiles originating from Iran" and said there were no casualties.

(NewsNation) Iran launched a missile attack on a U.S. military base in Qatar, in retaliation for the American bombing of its nuclear sites.The United States on Monday previously said it was closely monitoring potential threats after explosions were heard in Qatar.I can confirm that al Udeid Air Base was attacked by short-range and medium-range, ballistic missiles originating from Iran today at this time there are no reports of US casualties," a U.S. Defense official told NewsNation. "We are monitoring the situation closely and will provide more information as it becomes available.US-Iran conflict: What are some of the resistance groups?The attack came shortly after Qatar closed its airspace as a precaution amid threats from Iran. Iran acknowledged the missile barrage on Qatar was the same number as bombs used by the U.S. on nuclear sites, signaling a desire to de-escalate."We express the State of Qatar's strong condemnation of the attack on Al Udeid Air Base by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, and consider it a flagrant violation of the State of Qatar's sovereignty and airspace, as well as of international law and the United Nations Charter, said a Qarar Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson. "We affirm that the State of Qatar reserves the right to respond directly in a manner proportional to the nature and scale of this blatant aggression and in accordance with international law."Trump hits Iran: 5 questions on what comes nextIran, in the past, has threatened American forces at Al Udeid Air Base, which hosts the forward headquarters of the U.S. militarys Central Command. Before the attack, Israel also expanded its war against Iran to include targets associated with the countrys struggling theocracy.Qatar's Ministry of Defense says that the country's air defense successfully intercepted a missile attack on the al Udeid Air Base.The Gulf nation of Bahrain, home to the U.S. 5th Fleet headquarters, says it is temporarily suspending flights in its airspace.

Emmy voters have until tonight to send in their picks for nominees. Here's what NPR TV critic Eric Deggans thinks they should be voting for. (Image credit: Eddy Chen)

Bezos will soon marry Lauren Snchez in Venice. Protesters say the city, already grappling with overtourism, is putting the wedding over their needs which city officials and wedding organizers deny.(Image credit: Stefano Rellandini)

The Trump administration said its strikes were intended to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. Now, Iran weighs a response against what it called an "outrageous" military operation.(Image credit: Getty Images)

There are 20% more homes for sale this May but it hasn't been enough to pull buyers off the sidelines amid high mortgage rates and economic uncertainty.(Image credit: Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

With a billboard in Times Square and a night on Broadway, the year's top high school performers are ready for their big moment at the Jimmy Awards.(Image credit: Jos A. Alvarado Jr. for NPR)

What freedom means in the U.S. may be changing. For July 4, NPR wants to know: What does freedom mean to you?(Image credit: Stu Forster)

The over-the-top ad combines the energy of Grand Theft Auto with the drama of the NBA Finals all created by AI. Is it a sign of things to come?(Image credit: Kalshi via YouTube)

Israel says it struck multiple sites across Tehran, including the Fordo nuclear site hit by the U.S. days earlier and a prison known for jailing regime opponents.(Image credit: Alexander Kazakov)

(NewsNation) Americans could soon feel the impact of escalating tensions with Iran, especially at the gas pump.Oil prices jumped to a five-month high Monday following U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, sparking concerns that prices could climb higher in the coming days and weeks.While the full economic impact remains uncertain, much depends on how Iran responds, particularly whether it attempts to shut down the Strait of Hormuz.Highest level of alert as world waits for Iran's responseIran threatens to close Hormuz StraitOn Sunday, the Iranian Parliament approved a measure toclose the waterway.About 20 million barrels of crude oil pass through the strait daily, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Located between Iran and Oman, the waterway is one of the world's most critical oil chokepoints.If Iran shuts it down, oil prices would likely spike globally, with serious implications for the U.S. economy."The important thing to know is that the Strait of Hormuz ships 20% of global oil production," said PatrickDeHaan, headofpetroleumanalysis at GasBuddy. "While we are not a beneficiary we are not a buyer of crude oil from Iran the U.S. cannot detach itself from the global economy."State Department issues worldwide caution security alertUS warnsIranagainstclosingHormuzStraitThe White House has not confirmed whether it anticipates further retaliation, but top officials have warned Iran against taking steps that could further escalate tensions.Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in an interview with Fox News' "Sunday Morning Futures," warned closing the strait would be a "massive escalation that would merit a response from the U.S. and others."Vice President JD Vance went further, calling such a move "economic suicide" for Iran."Their entire economy runs through the Strait of Hormuz," Vance told NBC's "Meet the Press." "If they want to destroy their own economy, it can cause disruption in the world. I think that would be their decision, but why would they do that?"Satellite photos: Damage at Iran nuclear sitesInstead, he urged Iran to return to the negotiating table and abandon its nuclear weapons program."If they are willing to do that, they are going to find a willing partner in the United States of America," Vance said.Despite rising prices, DeHaan said there's no immediate reason to fear what he described as "apocalyptic" gas costs. Still, he warned the national average could increase by 10 to 25 cents per gallon within the next week or two.

The Trump administration is defending its strikes on three nuclear sites in Iran, which were carried out without congressional approval. And, a look at how Iran could respond to the U.S. strikes.(Image credit: Andrew Harnik)

The Trump administration is defending its strikes on three nuclear sites in Iran, which were carried out without congressional approval. And, a look at how Iran could respond to the U.S. strikes.(Image credit: Andrew Harnik)

(NewsNation) President Donald Trump on Sunday floated the idea of a regime change in Iran, contradicting messaging from his top national security advisers. Its not politically correct to use the term, Regime Change, but if the current Iranian Regime is unable to MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN, why wouldnt there be a Regime change??? MIGA!!! Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.State Department issues worldwide caution security alertVice President JD Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio spent much of Sunday insisting U.S. attacks on Iranian nuclear sites were aimed at toppling the Islamic Republic's nuclear abilities not its leader.We dont want to achieve regime change. We want to achieve the end of the Iranian nuclear program, Vance told ABC News. Thats what the president set us out to do.The mixed messages from the administration about the "Midnight Hammer" operation came as some members of Congress questioned the legality of the strikes on Iran, which were carried out without congressional approval.Satellite photos: See before and after images of bombing at Iran nuke sitesRep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., introduced a resolution to block military action against Iran unless explicitly authorized by Congress.Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., has called for Trump's impeachment, writing on social media that the decision to bomb Iran was "a grave violation" of the Constitution. Reps. Shri Thanedar, D-Mich., and Al Green, D-Texas, have also joined the call.Trump will meet with his national security team for the first time since the strikes Monday afternoon.

Most of the bidding action was online. But at a ritzy Beverly Hills hotel, hopeful bidders united by genuine affection for Lynch admired the tools of the late artist's trade. It was a mirthful wake.(Image credit: Emma Bowman)

Most of the bidding action was online. But at a ritzy Beverly Hills hotel, hopeful bidders united by genuine affection for Lynch admired the tools of the late artist's trade. It was a mirthful wake.(Image credit: Emma Bowman)

The former leader of FAIR, the Federation for American Immigration Reform, Dan Stein, retired this year after more than 40 at the helm of the organization. The right-wing group has long fought to reduce immigration and for tougher border controls. Under President Trump, Stein's once-fringe ideas are now being enacted.(Image credit: Moriah Ratner for NPR)

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Siarhei Tsikhanouski is almost unrecognizable. Belarus' key opposition figure, spent years in solitary confinement. He credits U.S. President Trump in aiding with his release over the weekend.(Image credit: Mindaugas Kulbis)

Hadeel Al-Shalchi speaks with Israelis on the morning after the U.S. bombing of Iran; one man said his ruined home was the price for destroying Iran's nuclear program.

The Vera C. Rubin Observatory has just released some of its first images. Its powerful new telescope will be able to quickly spot previously unseen astronomical objects.(Image credit: NSF-DOE Vera C. Rubin Observatory)