As the world woke up to March 1, 2026, one story dominated every feed: the United States and Israel launched sweeping airstrikes on Iran in “Operation Epic Fury,” eliminating Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and dozens of top officials. But that wasn’t the only thing capturing American attention. From a deadly shooting in Austin with possible terror ties to surging oil prices and Hollywood’s biggest night, here are the 10 stories that topped Google searches, news apps, and social media yesterday. Balanced reporting, straight facts, real links. Let’s dive in.
1. US & Israel Launch “Operation Epic Fury” — Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei Killed
Early Saturday into Sunday, US and Israeli forces executed one of the most ambitious military operations in decades, striking over 1,000 targets across Iran. President Trump confirmed the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and at least 48 senior Iranian officials. “Bombs will be dropping everywhere,” Trump stated. Iran announced 40 days of national mourning while vowing retaliation.
Supporters called it a decisive blow against a regime long accused of sponsoring terrorism and pursuing nuclear weapons. Critics, including several Democratic senators, labeled it a “war of choice” launched without congressional approval. Pentagon briefings to Congress reportedly acknowledged no imminent Iranian attack on US forces was detected prior to the strikes.
Key facts: Strikes hit military sites, nuclear facilities, and leadership compounds. Iran fired missiles at US bases and Israeli targets in response. Civilian casualties reported on both sides, including school strikes in Iran per Al Jazeera reporting.
Read full: NPR – Trump Warns Iran Not to Retaliate | NYT analysis
2. Three US Troops Killed, Five Seriously Wounded in Iran Retaliation — Trump: “More Likely”
US Central Command confirmed the first American fatalities since the operation began: three service members killed and five wounded in Iranian counter-attacks. President Trump addressed the nation via video, vowing to “avenge” the fallen and stating additional losses were probable.
The Pentagon told Congress there was no intelligence indicating Iran planned a first strike on US forces. Democrats demanded answers on strategy and exit plans. Republicans praised the precision of the initial assault.
Key facts: Casualties occurred during ongoing strikes and missile exchanges. Trump described the operation as “one of the largest, most complex military offensives the world has ever seen.”
Read full: NPR – 3 American Troops Killed | Fox News
3. Oil Prices Surge 7-13% as Strait of Hormuz Faces Disruption
Global oil markets reacted sharply. Brent crude briefly hit $82 before settling near $78 (+7-10%). West Texas Intermediate climbed toward $72. Analysts warned prices could reach $100 if the Strait of Hormuz — through which 20% of global oil passes — remains threatened by attacks and GPS jamming.
OPEC+ agreed to increase output, but traders remain nervous. Higher pump prices are expected within days. Economists note this could add pressure to inflation just as the Fed eyes rate decisions.
Read full: NYT – Oil Prices Climb | Reuters
4. Austin Bar Shooting: 2 Dead, 14 Injured — FBI Probes Possible Terrorism Link to Iran Strikes
Early Sunday morning, a gunman opened fire outside Buford’s bar on Austin’s Sixth Street. Two victims and the shooter (Ndiaga Diagne, 53, Senegal-born US citizen) were killed; 14 others wounded, three critically. The shooter wore a “Property of Allah” sweatshirt over an Iranian-flag undershirt. Authorities found an Iranian flag and regime photos in his apartment.
The FBI is investigating terrorism ties and possible motivation linked to the Iran strikes. Officials stressed it’s too early for conclusions but called it a potential “nexus to terrorism.”
5. Waymo Robotaxi Blocks Emergency Vehicles During Austin Shooting Response
A viral video showed a Waymo self-driving car stopped across lanes, temporarily blocking ambulances and police racing to the Austin shooting scene. Witnesses said the vehicle appeared “stuck” while attempting a U-turn. The incident reignited debate over autonomous vehicle safety and emergency protocols.
Waymo has not yet issued a detailed statement. This comes months after NTSB probes into Waymo vehicles illegally passing school buses in Austin and other cities.
Read full: NY Post
6. 2026 Actor Awards (SAG): Timothée Chalamet, Harrison Ford, and Posthumous Win for Catherine O’Hara
Hollywood gathered at the Shrine Auditorium for the 32nd Actor Awards. Timothée Chalamet turned heads on the red carpet with his mother. Harrison Ford delivered a memorable acceptance speech. Catherine O’Hara won posthumously for “The Studio,” with Seth Rogen accepting to a standing ovation. “Sinners” took top ensemble honors.
Some stars wore “Ice Out” pins protesting immigration policies. The night offered a brief escape from global headlines.
Read full: Hollywood Reporter
7. SpaceX Launches 29 Starlink Satellites from Cape Canaveral
SpaceX successfully deployed another batch of Starlink internet satellites aboard a Falcon 9 from Florida. The launch marked continued expansion of Elon Musk’s constellation, now providing service to millions worldwide. No booster recovery issues reported.
Meanwhile, NASA announced adjustments to the Artemis program timeline amid broader space-policy discussions in Congress.
Read full: Spaceflight Now
8. Measles Cases Top 1,100 in 2026 — Hospitals Warn of Gaps in Doctor Experience
The CDC reported over 1,136 measles cases so far this year, with outbreaks in multiple states. Public health officials noted many young physicians have never treated the disease. A food-safety alert was also issued for mislabeled beef jerky containing undeclared soy allergen.
Experts link declining vaccination rates to the surge. Hospitals are refreshing protocols and urging MMR shots.
Read full: CDC Data | Health News
9. Tributes Pour In for Colorado QB Dominiq Ponder, Killed at 23 in Car Crash
College football mourned the loss of University of Colorado quarterback Dominiq Ponder, who died at age 23 in a single-vehicle accident. Teammates, coaches, and fans shared memories of the talented athlete. The tragedy added to a somber sports weekend overshadowed by global events.
Read full: NY Post
10. Sleeper-Cell Fears Rise After Austin Shooting; ZeroHedge: Dollar Remains Best Safe Haven
Counterterrorism experts warned of possible Iranian-linked sleeper cells on US soil following the Austin incident. Meanwhile, financial analysts on ZeroHedge and Bloomberg noted the US dollar’s resilience as the top safe-haven asset amid war uncertainty — outperforming gold and crypto in early trading.
Read full: Fox News on sleeper cells | ZeroHedge