Nightline: War with Iran War With Iran: Day 31
Apr 1, 2026
Jonathan Karl, Chief Washington correspondent for ABC News, conducts a hard-hitting interview and reporting segment. Conversation covers the U.S. troop buildup in the Middle East and damage to an E-3 radar jet with American injuries. Discussion also touches on presidential threats, U.S. strategic options, and an Iranian-American congresswoman’s call for de-escalation and a clear off-ramp.
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Iran Strike Damaged Vital U.S. Radar Jet
- The U.S. lost a critical E-3 Sentry radar jet and 15 service members were injured in an Iranian strike, showing Iran's continued military capability.
- The E-3's damaged tail and missing rotating radar dome at Prince Sultan Air Base highlight a severe hit to regional airborne surveillance.
Presidential Threat Tied To Oil and Negotiations
- President Trump threatened to obliterate Iranian energy and water infrastructure if Iran doesn't reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
- The threat came alongside a claim of imminent talks with a "more reasonable" Iranian regime while U.S. crude topped $100 a barrel, tying rhetoric to energy stakes.
U.S. Troop Surge Signals Broad Operational Options
- U.S. force posture in the region surged to about 50,000 personnel with added carriers and thousands of Marines, signaling preparation for varied options.
- Reports include hundreds of U.S. special operations forces possibly poised to seize key sites like Karg Island or target uranium facilities.