NPR News: 04-03-2026 12PM EDT

This NPR News Now bulletin from April 3, 2026, leads with sharp escalations in the five-week-old US-Israeli war against Iran, alongside a record defense budget request, March jobs data, Artemis II mission details, and previews of the NCAA Final Four.

Iran Conflict Intensifies

Search efforts are underway after a US F-15 fighter jet was shot down over Iran, as confirmed by a US official and Iranian state media; the crew's fate remains unknown. The incident follows President Trump's social media post celebrating a US bombing of an Iranian bridge, where he indicated more strikes to come. US forces continue operations against Iran, which has retaliated by firing at Persian Gulf neighbors. In the UAE, a fire erupted at an Abu Dhabi gas facility; officials report Iran has launched over 200 drones and 470 missiles at the country since the war began, though most were intercepted. Separately, the UN Security Council is considering a resolution to authorize defensive measures ensuring safe ship passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil trade.