CNN Inside Politics US 'Dominating, Accelerating' War Against Iran
Mar 4, 2026
Clarissa Ward, CNN chief international correspondent reporting from Erbil, Iraq, gives frontline updates and regional analysis. She describes explosions, air defenses and strikes near Erbil. She discusses Gulf states’ anxiety and pressures to respond to Iran. She outlines reports of CIA involvement with Kurdish fighters and the risks of broader regional escalation.
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U.S. Says It Is Escalating Strikes Into Iran
- The U.S. is escalating strikes deeper into Iran while declaring dominance, signaling a shift from defensive to offensive operations.
- Secretary Pete Hegseth and General Dan Caine framed progress as accelerating destruction of Iranian capabilities and sinking an Iranian warship.
Erbil Under Regular Attack From Drones And Projectiles
- Clarissa Ward reported immediate explosions near Erbil and repeated strikes on Erbil airport and the U.S. consulate, forcing evacuations.
- She described Shahid drones flying over the border and continuous attacks across Iraqi Kurdistan and the region.
Gulf States Feel Trapped Between Powers
- Gulf states feel exposed and pressured as their image of peaceful oases is damaged by widespread missile and drone strikes.
- Clarissa Ward said regional leaders woke angry at both U.S./Israeli action and Iran's heavy bombardment, increasing pressure to respond.