NPR News: 03-18-2026 7AM EDT

This NPR News Now update leads with Iran's missile retaliation against Israel and Gulf countries following the killing of Iranian leader Ali Larjani, alongside US political developments on voting laws and primaries, a Tennessee school immigration bill, and briefer items on an airstrike in Kabul and western heat.

Iran Missile Strikes on Israel

Iran fired multiple warhead missiles, including cluster munitions, targeting the Tel Aviv area and causing two deaths in central Israel, damage to a train station, and other impacts. At least 14 people have died in Israel from such attacks since the war began, with more rockets hitting the north on Tuesday. Israel's defense minister warned of "significant surprises... on all fronts" without details.

Senate Debate on Save America Act

The Senate started a marathon debate on President Trump's priority elections bill, requiring proof of citizenship and photo ID to vote. Trump says he won't sign other bills until it passes, but it needs 60 votes and lacks Democratic support, making passage unlikely. Experts note non-citizens rarely vote illegally in federal elections.