U.S. Personnel Injured in Missile Strike as Ceasefire Decision Looms in Washington

A ballistic missile strike targeted a Kuwaiti air base housing U.S. forces within the last 24 hours, resulting in injuries to approximately five people, including U.S. contractors and active-duty personnel. While the missile was intercepted, the resulting debris destroyed one U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone and significantly damaged another. The attack underscores the expanding regional scope of the conflict, drawing Kuwait into the direct line of fire between the U.S. and Iranian interests. In Washington, President Trump convened a high-level Situation Room meeting lasting over two hours on Friday to consider a memorandum of understanding for a 60-day ceasefire. The proposed framework includes provisions for follow-on nuclear talks and requires Iran to surrender its highly enriched uranium. However, the meeting concluded without a public announcement, leaving the status of the diplomatic track uncertain. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent reiterated the administration's 'red lines,' which include the unconditional reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the total cessation of Iran’s nuclear program. While negotiations remain in a state of flux, U.S. military leadership has maintained a firm posture. Speaking from Singapore, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth expressed confidence in President Trump’s ability to reach a deal but warned that the U.S. military remains fully prepared to resume combat operations. The administration's focus continues to center on maritime security and nuclear disarmament as the primary conditions for any lasting agreement.