Overview
- U.S. Southern Command said March 3 that U.S. and Ecuadorian forces launched operations against designated narcoterrorist groups, describing an advisory and operational support role targeting Los Lobos and Los Choneros.
- Iran announced missile strikes on Kurdish positions in northern Iraq, Israel reported new missiles launched from Iran, and Saudi Arabia said it intercepted three cruise missiles near Al‑Kharj.
- Sri Lankan authorities reported recovering dozens of bodies after an Iranian warship was sunk in international waters, following U.S. confirmation that a torpedo struck the vessel.
- NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said the U.S.–Israeli offensive has “massive” allied backing, and U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged Israel to press its campaign.
- The IMF cautioned that a prolonged conflict could hit energy prices, market confidence, growth and inflation, while Spain convened unions and employers to design a new economic shield and signaled readiness to revive targeted tax relief if needed.