President Trump threatened on Saturday that "hell will reign down" on Iran if the regime doesn't agree to open the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours.
Why it matters: Trump's 10-day deadline to Iran is expected to expire on Monday. He previously threatened to bomb the country's energy, water and oil infrastructure if no deal was reached to open the strait.
As America pulls back from investments in traditional pillars of soft power such as international aid and broadcasting, one area stands out as a growing cultural export: music.
Why it matters: The forces that launched the U.S. to the top of the global stage in music can't be easily unwound by a single administration or policy. They are woven into the cultural fabric of America's history and identity.
One of two crew members of a U.S. fighter jet that was shot down over Iran was located and rescued by U.S. special forces, and the search for the second is ongoing,an Israeli official and a second source with knowledge of the situation told Axios.
The latest: Iran is also hunting for the crew and has asked civilians in the area to join the search, offering a reward if they're found.
The State Department expelled Iran's deputy ambassador to the UN last December, citing national security concerns, according to a U.S. official and a source with knowledge of the incident.
The intrigue: The U.S. decision was kept discreet at the time. It was one of at least three expulsions of Iranian diplomats in New York over the last six months.
The big picture: The alliance was built on the premise that an attack on one member is an attack on all. President Trump has made that conditional: if you won't help me in my war, I might not show up for yours.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has asked Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George and two other military leaders to leave their posts, two Defense officials confirmed to Axios.
Why it matters: George is the Army's most senior general and is being removed during the Iran war. Axios could not immediately confirm the reasons for his ouster, which was first reported by CBS.
