Evening Wire: More Marines to Middle East & Bachelorette Canceled | 3.20.26

The Evening Wire episode recaps a range of developments on March 20, including a U.S. military buildup in the Middle East amid Iran tensions, an intelligence leak probe, entertainment cancellations and deaths, and assorted domestic policy shifts and local controversies.

Middle East Military Moves

A second Marine Expeditionary Unit—about 2,200 Marines with multiple warships—is deploying to the Middle East, joining a similar force already en route. These units handle tasks like securing shipping lanes, civilian evacuations, or limited ground operations. President Trump stated he has no plans for ground troops, saying, "I'm not putting troops anywhere."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed Israel alone targeted a key Iranian gas facility, spiking global energy prices. He noted Trump requested Israel pause further strikes, though coordination continues. Netanyahu rejected claims Israel dragged the U.S. into war, emphasizing, "Trump is not someone you tell what to do," and highlighted shared long-held views on Iran's danger, citing Trump's early warnings from 1979.