Live updates: Hegseth blasts European allies, media at press conference; Iran targets Gulf energy sites

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth started a press briefing Thursday on the latest Operation Epic Fury news by blasting “ungrateful” European allies and “a dishonest” media, as the war enters Day 20.

The update comes after Iran struck an oil facility in Saudi Arabia and a liquefied natural gas facility in Qatar. While both sites assess damage, oil prices jumped. And with the Strait of Hormuz blockade, President Trump is weighing seizure of Iran’s critical oil depot on Kharg Island in a bid to force Tehran’s hand.

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and CIA Director John Ratcliffe return to the Hill on Thursday morning for a global threats hearing in the House.

The Senate Homeland Security panel is expected to vote on Sen. Markwayne Mullin’s (R-Okla.) nomination to lead the Department of Homeland Security on Thursday morning after a contentious confirmation hearing Wednesday.

The SAVE America Act has the Senate twisted in knots, going into its third day of debate and as some of Trump’s allies warn their GOP colleagues that they could face backlash if they don’t support the president’s major legislative priority. The House and Senate are both in session.

Trump on Thursday will host Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at the White House.

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