On the Radar: Iran Tensions, VA Rule Reversal & Return to Base

Here's what's on the radar in military life this week. First up, the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet Headquarters in Bahrain is now operating with only mission-critical staff, fewer than 100 sailors and Marines ahead of potential strikes on Iran. This according to Fox News. A similar evacuation occurred last June before Operation Midnight Hammer when the U.S. struck Iranian nuclear sites. Meanwhile, the USS Abraham Lincoln remains fully mission-ready, capable of over 100 sorties a day as tensions rise over Tehran's nuclear program. President Trump says diplomacy is preferred but warns the U.S. will not allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons. The VA has rescinded a controversial rule that would have required examiners to factor in the effects of medication when assigning disability ratings. This comes after major backlash from the veteran community and nearly 20,000 public comments. VA says it's pulling the rule to protect trust in the benefits system effective immediately. And finally, over on veteran life, the latest episode of Return to Base is live. Our podcast host, Army Special Forces veteran Cliff VanRickley sits down with Marine veteran and VET-TICS Chief Strategy Officer Steve Weintraub. Don't miss this one. Learn how you and your family can enjoy concerts, sporting events and more and discover how these experiences can support mental health and reintegration. That's your briefing. Follow along so you never miss what's on the radar.