National News Week of March 30, 2026
The top news stories in the United States for the week of March 30, 2026, are dominated by the escalating war with Iran, its economic impact on domestic gas prices, and widespread civil unrest.
War with Iran and National Security
Military Escalation: Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has not ruled out deploying U.S. ground troops to Iran. Meanwhile, the U.S. has intensified its aerial campaign, conducting the first overland B-52 bomber missions and targeting Iranian nuclear research labs.
Strait of Hormuz Conflict: President Trump has advised European allies facing fuel shortages to “go get your own oil,” signaling a potential U.S. retreat from policing the blockaded Strait of Hormuz.
Intelligence Official Resignation: Joe Kent, the director of the National Counterterrorism Center, resigned in a high-profile break with the administration, citing concerns that the war was provoked without an imminent threat.
Economic and Domestic Impact
Surging Gas Prices: For the first time since 2022, the average U.S. gas price has topped $4.00 a gallon due to the conflict and supply disruptions.
DHS and TSA Funding: While TSA workers finally received back pay following an executive order, the Department of Homeland Security remains partially shut down as Congress remains on recess without a funding agreement.
Medicaid Cuts: A new report indicates that proposed federal health spending cuts—intended to help fund the $200 billion war effort—threaten the stability of hundreds of hospitals.
Legal and Political News
“No Kings” Protests: Millions of Americans have taken to the streets in nationwide rallies protesting executive power and the ongoing war.
Supreme Court Ruling: In a major First Amendment decision, the Supreme Court rejected a Colorado law that banned L.G.B.T.Q. “conversion therapy” for minors.
Trump Presidential Library: President Trump unveiled renderings for a massive presidential library skyscraper in Miami, featuring a signature golden escalator.
Florida Airport Renaming: Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation to rename Palm Beach International Airport after Donald Trump.
Science and Sports
Artemis II Mission: NASA is in the final stages of preparing for the historic Artemis II crewed moon flyby.
March Madness: The 2026 NCAA Women’s Final Four is set, featuring a powerhouse lineup of South Carolina, Texas, UConn, and UCLA.