NPR News: 03-18-2026 3AM EDT

This NPR News Now update highlights fallout from the U.S. war in Iran, including a top security official's resignation, energy supply disruptions, and economic strains, plus domestic political results and other developments.

Counterterrorism Chief Resigns

Joe Kant, head of the National Counterterrorism Center and an Iraq veteran, resigned Tuesday, citing his opposition to the war in Iran. In a letter to President Trump—whom he had supported in three campaigns for promising to avoid new Middle East conflicts—Kant stated he could not support the war, arguing Iran posed no imminent threat and that it stemmed from pressure by Israel and its U.S. lobby. He called Middle East wars a "trap" costing American lives.

Energy Disruptions from Strait of Hormuz Closure

About one-fifth of global oil and LNG supplies remain cut off due to the closed Strait of Hormuz. Pakistan faces LNG shortages from Qatar but is cushioned by recent solar and battery installations, which act as a hedge against high substitute prices, per think tank analyst Nabia Imran. Energy experts note that electric vehicle growth in countries like Nepal and China boosts resilience amid rising oil prices.