Iran

Maj. Gen. Qasem Soleimani had been planning attacks on U.S. troops and diplomats, officials said.

Many argued that it may be too soon to understand the implications and the steps needed to avoid escalated conflict.

More attacks from Iranian-backed militia groups may be possible, officials said.

The Marines are assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command.

An American contractor was killed and four U.S. troops wounded in militia attack Dec. 27.

The U.S.-flagged merchant vessel Maersk Kinloss rescued three distressed Iranian mariners.

Iran's military represents a hybrid approach that is being evidenced at the level of near-peer rivals.

The country is continuing its drive to establish regional dominance.

Former Marine Sgt. Rocky Sickmann honored the troops who died trying to rescue him and 51 others in the Iran hostage crisis.

"Do not mistake our restraint for weakness," Defense Secretary Mark Esper said.