US and Iran exchange fire as Vance says deal could be months away | First Thing

US forces launched strikes against Iran on June 9, 2026, following Iran's downing of an Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz. Iran retaliated by targeting American airbases in the Middle East. US Vice President JD Vance stated that the conflict could conclude within a week or a few months, expressing optimism for an economically beneficial deal that addresses Iran's nuclear program long-term. Vance emphasized the goal of ensuring Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons for future generations. The article also briefly mentions Steve Hilton, a former Fox News host and entrepreneur who has built a coalition of diverse voters, including working-class individuals, Latino small-business owners, religious conservatives, and Silicon Valley tech tycoons. Hilton has leveraged his background as a legal immigrant in his political positioning.