CNN 5 Things Iran War Resignation, Shutdown Travel Headaches, USA vs. Venezuela and more
Mar 17, 2026
A senior US intelligence official resigns amid controversy over the Iran conflict. Airport security snarls grow as unpaid TSA staff skip shifts during the partial government shutdown. Forecasters warn of a potentially record-shattering heat wave across the West. A deadly airstrike hit a Kabul hospital, raising regional tensions. Team USA faces Venezuela in the World Baseball Classic final with high stakes on and off the field.
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Targeted Killing Raises Regional Tensions
- Israel claims it killed Ali Larijani and Iran's paramilitary head, escalating tensions ahead of Nowruz.
- David Rind notes Israel framed the strikes as undermining Iran and possibly prompting internal change during the Persian New Year.
Traveler Shows Up Early Because TSA Lines Are Unpredictable
- Traveler Ayush Kakar arrived at Newark early after hearing shutdown TSA horror stories and illustrates passenger fear.
- David Rind details long lines in Atlanta, 2+ hour waits in Houston, and TSA staff working without full pay.
Shutdown Threatens Airport Operations
- The partial government shutdown is causing TSA call-outs and unpaid security workers, risking smaller airport closures.
- CEOs of major airlines urged Congress to restore DHS funding while lawmakers stall over immigration reform.