Iran Fires Missiles, Oil Prices Dip, VOA Gutted, Ford’s China Battery Backlash

•Iran Launches Missiles at U.S. Bases Iran fires at American installations in Iraq and Qatar in response to Trump’s weekend strikes. No casualties reported, thanks to prior warnings. The Trump administration signals it’s ready to hit back harder if Iran escalates. •Oil Prices Drop Despite Middle East Tensions Oil markets shrug off missile strikes as infrastructure remains untouched. Trump urges U.S. energy producers to ramp up drilling and reject OPEC and Iranian pressure. Energy independence is back in focus. •Voice of America Faces Massive Layoffs Over 85% of VOA’s staff are laid off in a sweeping restructuring move by the Trump administration. Critics call it an assault on press freedom, while supporters say it’s long overdue accountability. •Ford’s Battery Factory Faces Blowback Ford moves forward with a $3B EV battery plant in Michigan using Chinese tech, despite Congress moving to strip tax credits. The controversy exposes flaws in U.S. climate policy and dependency on Beijing.   Erick Erickson breaks down the four major stories you need to know before the day ends. From political power plays in Washington to breaking developments the mainstream media is ignoring, this rapid-fire update cuts through the noise. Get the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite app. Stay grounded, stay informed, and keep the faith.