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Trump Says Critics “Kick” Him After 13 Iran Deaths

5/24/2026

45 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

President Donald Trump said criticism of Iran operation “gives me a kick” after reporting 13 U.S. service members died.
The 13 deaths include six from a drone strike and six from a refueling aircraft crash.
At a May 22 rally in Rockland County, New York, police removed protesters who interrupted Trump three times.
Virginia Rep. Eugen Vindman said the nation deserves leadership that honors the fallen and criticized Trump’s remarks.

History

Historical Context

On March 19 2003 the United States launched its invasion of Iraq, targeting the elite Medina Republican Guard near Karbala. The 3rd Infantry Division’s strike damaged the division only lightly and saw one AH-64 Apache shot down, with its crew captured and televised. That early setback highlighted the war’s high risk and later fueled criticism of official casualty reports.

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Story summary

President Donald Trump said criticism of Iran operation “gives me a kick” after reporting 13 U.S. service members died.
The 13 deaths include six from a drone strike and six from a refueling aircraft crash.
At a May 22 rally in Rockland County, New York, police removed protesters who interrupted Trump three times.
Virginia Rep. Eugen Vindman said the nation deserves leadership that honors the fallen and criticized Trump’s remarks.

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