On July 9, 2026, the United States launched a new round of strikes against Iran, marking a significant escalation in tensions between the two nations. This followed a second consecutive day of military exchanges, raising fears of a return to full-scale conflict. The strikes occurred amid mixed messaging from former President Trump regarding the scope of the military engagement.

Trump recently returned from Turkey aboard an older Air Force One jet due to security concerns. Meanwhile, political developments in the U.S. include calls from the Maine House speaker urging party leaders to allow voters to replace Graham Platner on the ballot, with political analysts warning that if Platner remains, Democrats risk losing the seat.

Additional political commentary includes a presidential historian's view that Trump is attempting to create a "Red Scare on steroids." Trump also engaged in a call with the FIFA president concerning a red card controversy that could "put an asterisk" on a U.S. win.

NBC News correspondents Shannon Pettypiece and Courtney Kube discussed these developments on Meet the Press NOW, providing analysis on the evolving situation with Iran.

Sources