Nearly 42% of Reno County residents are living either in poverty or in households classified as “ALICE,” according to data cited by the United Way of Reno County — a figure local leaders say underscores the financial strain facing working families across the community. 

ALICE stands for “Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed.” The term describes individuals and families who earn too much to qualify for public assistance but not enough to cover basic household expenses. 

“These are people who are working really hard but still struggling to meet the basic needs of their household,” said Lacey Mills, Executive Director of the United Way of Reno County. “It’s the single mom down the street working two jobs. It’s the person sitting in the cubicle next to you. They’re employed, but they’re one crisis away from financial hardship.”

According to United Way data, a single adult in Reno County in 2022 needed to earn at least $12.23 per hour to meet a bare bones “survival budget,” which assumes rent of $361 per month. Mills noted that rental rates in the community are typically much higher, often exceeding $750 per month. 

To reach what United Way defines as a “stability budget” — covering realistic housing, transportation, health care and other essential expenses — a single adult would need to earn approximately $23.32 per hour. 

Updated 2023 figures indicate a single adult must earn at least $13.61 per hour, or about $28,300 annually, to meet basic costs in Reno County. 

JK Vann, who leads the Reno Connections program through United Way, said many ALICE households face difficult financial tradeoffs. 

“You make too much to qualify for assistance, but you don’t make enough to function independently,” Vann said. “You’re choosing between paying the electric bill or buying groceries. And if there’s a sick child or a car repair, the family immediately goes into financial crisis.” 

Vann emphasized that ALICE households are not defined by poor financial decisions but often by broader economic conditions. 

“Sometimes it’s the hand that people were dealt. It’s the ecosystem — wages, cost of living, available jobs,” he said. “There’s no cookie-cutter approach to changing this.” 

United Way has invested in localized ALICE data, allowing leaders to analyze financial conditions in Reno County by ZIP code. Mills said the data serves as a tool for business owners, nonprofits and local governments to inform decision-making. 

She cited one example in which a United Way partner expanded its childcare scholarship eligibility beyond the federal poverty line after reviewing ALICE data, allowing more working families to receive assistance. 

“That’s the work we’re doing every day — helping organizations use this data to support families who are struggling but don’t qualify for traditional assistance,” Mills said. 

Through Reno Connections, United Way offers case management and goal-setting support for individuals and families seeking financial stability. The program helps connect residents to community resources and provides ongoing support for at least six months. 

“We facilitate the warm handoff,” Vann said. “But we don’t just pass you along. We stand beside you to make sure you’re meeting your goals.” 

Reno Connections does not impose income barriers and focuses on preserving client dignity, Vann said. 

Local leaders, including city and county officials, have increasingly referenced ALICE households in public discussions about economic development, Mills said. She noted that conversations about growth and expansion must consider working families at risk of being left behind. 

“It takes more than a day to turn a ship,” Vann added. “Progress is happening, even if it’s not always visible.” 

Residents seeking assistance through Reno Connections or for more information about ALICE data can contact the United Way of Reno County at 620-669-9329.

UWRC leaders highlight financial strain facing 42% of Reno County residents

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. ——————————————

Jason	Philip	McCrory		2/28/2026 10:42&nbsp;AM	DWS; 1st conviction

Benjamin	Allen	Robinson		2/28/2026 10:42&nbsp;AM	DUI; 4th Conviction; Alcohol Influence that renders incapable of safely driving

Stacy	Lynn	Baker		2/28/2026 11:40&nbsp;AM	Pedestrian; Under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs upon Roadway

Jerod	William	Dailing		2/28/2026 7:48&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Jasey	Lynn	Schmucker		2/28/2026 8:39&nbsp;PM	Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction), Battery; Phys contact rude/insult/angry manner

Daily Bookings

The Hutchinson Public Library is hosting a digital live stream with bestselling author Michael Perry. His&nbsp;presentation will feature highlights of his body of work centered on rural communities and the people who call them home.

The presentation is at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 4.&nbsp;

Perry’s writing captures the experiences and character of small-town life, blending humor and poignancy. In his memoir, “Population: 485,” he recounts life in a tiny Midwestern town where the local vigilante is a farmer’s wife armed with a pistol and a Bible, the senior member of the volunteer fire department is a cross-eyed butcher with one kidney and two ex-wives, and the back roads are haunted by the ghosts of children and farmers. Set against fires, wrecks, bar fights and smelt feeds, the book weaves comedy with moments of heartbreak and tragedy.

His fiction debut, “Jesus Cow,” offers a humorous yet sincere look at faith and modern life. The novel follows Harley Jackson, who faces romantic upheaval, the threat of a predatory developer seeking to pave over his family farm and the unexpected discovery of a calf bearing the image of Jesus Christ inside his barn — a secret that proves difficult to keep.

Perry is a New York Times bestselling author, humorist, corporate speaker, volunteer firefighter and first responder. A lifelong resident of the rural Midwest, he is known for what he calls his “reflective roughneck” perspective on life in Middle America.

In addition to writing, Perry produces the audio newsletter “Michael Perry’s Voice Mail,” tours with his band The Long Beds, and works as a scriptwriter, voiceover artist and audiobook narrator. A registered nurse, he worked his way through college as a Wyoming cowboy and even as a roller-skating Snoopy.

Perry lives in rural Wisconsin and maintains an online presence at sneezingcow.com.

The library asks that those interested in attending register for the event. You can do so at this<a href="https://libraryc.org/hutchpl/115769/register"> link</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Library to hold author talk livestream with author Michael Perry

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/pages/weather">Click here for the KSStorm.info 7-day forecast.&nbsp;</a>

Three-day Outlook

Dear Dave, I’m 50 years old, and through a series of bad life decisions, I have nothing set aside for retirement. Now that I’m finally in a better place financially, I’m getting to the age where people say to invest conservatively.

Because of this, I’m afraid to invest in anything aggressive, and that makes me feel like I’ll never be able to have a decent retirement. I’ve put aside $20,000 in a savings account so far. Any advice you have would be appreciated. —Jack

First of all, you’re not at the age where you need to be investing conservatively. I don’t know where you heard this or who told you it was a good idea, but they’re wrong. You’re only 50. I’m not investing conservatively, and I’m 63. I’m investing in good, growth stock mutual funds that are growing like weeds. And you should be too.

Listen, I’m not saying you need to shift into panic mode. But you do need to get moving on this retirement thing today. It’s great that you’ve started saving money, but I’d be pretty nervous if all I had to my name at age 50 was $20,000. At this point, you should have something like $250,000.

You mentioned being afraid to invest more aggressively. I’ve learned over the years there are two situations where fear can be a positive thing. The first is being afraid of things we don’t understand. One day when I was 12, my dad told me to move the car. I didn’t understand you weren’t supposed to stomp the gas pedal all the way to the floor. That little episode scared us both silly, and I spun almost all the gravel out of our driveway. Now, with years of practice and understanding, I’m a better driver. Being behind the wheel doesn’t scare me at all.

The other positive type of fear is being afraid of things that can legitimately hurt us — like standing in the middle of the highway. If you do this, you should be afraid an 18-wheeler will come flying down the road and turn you into a pancake.

But when you’re afraid of something just because you don’t know how to do it — like you are with investing — you can dispel that fear with knowledge and wisdom. That’s why I want you to find a good investment professional. I’m talking about someone with the heart of a teacher, who will help you learn the ins and outs of investing and take away the fear you feel. If you do this, your confidence, and your knowledge, will begin to grow. Once that happens, you’ll start to feel comfortable pouring into good retirement investments.

Get to it, Jack. You can make this happen!

You can hear Dave Ramsey, Monday through Friday evenings from 7 to 10 p.m. on KWBW, unless it is preempted by sports coverage.&nbsp;

Dave says: When it comes to investing, knowledge and wisdom dispel fear

The Hutchinson High School Alumni Association is now accepting nominations for its annual Wall of Honor award, recognizing outstanding alumni who have made significant contributions in their professions, communities, and beyond.

To be eligible, nominees must be graduates of Hutchinson High School and must have graduated at least 10 years prior to nomination. Candidates should demonstrate a high level of achievement in one or more of the following areas:

The Wall of Honor selection process does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, religion, sex, nationality, disability, economic status, or marital status. Individuals may be nominated posthumously.

Nomination forms are available online at:<a target="_blank" href="https://u345601.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.RcwPaJjKaE88gUN1WQFO7UMK6mfYcuUw9TGIRugPWEl44KFBTm5shkSyhcN1YjMW8U4t_Hfzz9OzPZS47VQYqNBwPb3qf6C5g5e5laW239ACX56VvHVTfUlNgaRPg9VSuOEk5j1BOHZOEnIQaBw3-2FtPy2YMRzfv2j33amVTCA5VgYcqFQxDMwAD3x7tvwPNVO4FpdWTUG7zBSmiSsotKQFNQeZMdxxhkRbD-2FTe-2FqBLBGAF-2FuWgdlXDQcVvHdcXo5YlyTZ3G5RCJKGZ6eiSSyncqWdnbKdIC4fQCx97PAnrx6Rs-2BRmoNlhpZ1XaYOtKKQAfgbe8x4q1AarSvN54l7u7GcwqOPILKWFLmdoE11SYQwVCSU-3D"> </a><a target="_blank" href="https://u345601.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.RcwPaJjKaE88gUN1WQFO7UMK6mfYcuUw9TGIRugPWEl44KFBTm5shkSyhcN1YjMWfRfP_Hfzz9OzPZS47VQYqNBwPb3qf6C5g5e5laW239ACX56VvHVTfUlNgaRPg9VSuOEk5j1BOHZOEnIQaBw3-2FtPy2YMRzfv2j33amVTCA5VgYcqFQxDMwAD3x7tvwPNVO4FpdWTUG7zBSmiSsotKQFNQeZMdxxhkRbD-2FTe-2FqBLBGAF-2FtC-2FY2s5OEXFPxh7ktLZKbVcuWNu3YI0-2BxklUftiT-2BBfeE8w9DrRYVsf1AEoY4VNlLpmwv7-2BEkXfT16P0cxhZEGhGhVn8pjBuU9uJptZkqRI1ttWJwOUdfrlPBd45Tt4-2Bc-3D">https://bit.ly/HutchWallOfHonor</a> or at the Hutchinson High School office, 810 E. 13th Avenue.

The nomination form requires basic biographical information, including volunteer activities, special honors and awards, and any supporting documentation such as newspaper clippings. Nominators must also submit a brief paragraph explaining why the individual deserves to be recognized.

A selection committee made up of three students, three teachers, and three members of the Alumni Association will select three honorees. All submitted nominations will remain on file and eligible for consideration for two years.

The 2026 Wall of Honor inductees will be recognized during a series of events held in conjunction with the HHS Homecoming football game on October 2. Honorees residing outside the area will be responsible for their own travel and lodging arrangements.

Each recipient will receive a personal plaque, and an additional plaque will be permanently displayed inside Hutchinson High School in recognition of their achievements.

Completed nominations and questions may be directed to Hutchinson High School, Attn: Marci Malashchuk, or emailed to <a href="mailto:malashchuk.marci@usd308.com">malashchuk.marci@usd308.com</a>.

Nominations open for HHS Wall of Honor 

Curious George is a bright-eyed, always-on-the-move pup with a nose for adventure and a heart that wants to be everyone's friend. This 52lb Beagle mix is true to his&nbsp;name,&nbsp;&nbsp;

George is happiest when&nbsp;he's&nbsp;investigating new sights and smells, learning what routines mean, and figuring out how to earn extra treats.&nbsp;He's&nbsp;a social, people-focused dog who enjoys attention, gentle praise, and having a job to do-especially anything that involves exploring the yard, going for walks, or working on basic manners.&nbsp;&nbsp;

George would do best with an adopter who can provide regular exercise, a consistent daily schedule, and a little patience while he settles in and learns the house rules. In return, he offers enthusiasm, affection, and plenty of&nbsp;entertaining&nbsp;"what's over here?" moments.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If&nbsp;you're&nbsp;looking for a fun companion who will keep you smiling and motivated to get outside, Curious George may be your perfect match.&nbsp;

To adopt&nbsp;Curious George, contact The Hutchinson Animal Shelter at&nbsp;<a href="tel:620-694-1924" target="_blank">620-694-1924</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Hutchinson Animal shelter is&nbsp;located&nbsp;at 1501 South Severance Street.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

🐶 Adopt a Furry Friend: Curious George

Cynthia	Elaine	Reyes		2/27/2026 10:58&nbsp;AM	Failure to Appear

Michelle	Lynn	Caldwell		2/27/2026 1:53&nbsp;PM	Viol protection order; Pre-trial order

Cody	James	Looney		2/27/2026 12:00&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Tarrant	Clay	Young		2/27/2026 4:35&nbsp;PM	DUI; 1st conv; comp evidence of blood/breath .08+

Joseph	Mackencie Tyler	Morin		2/27/2026 4:36&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Dustin	Robert	Lytle		2/27/2026 5:01&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Stephen	Joseph	Bonnar		2/27/2026 6:26&nbsp;PM	DWS; 1st conviction

Charles	Joseph Bryant	Adams		2/27/2026 6:27&nbsp;PM	DWS; 1st conviction

Michael	Paul	Batchelor		2/27/2026 7:31&nbsp;PM	DWS; 1st conviction

Dakota	Cejay	Shrader		2/27/2026 9:40&nbsp;PM	Direct Contempt,					Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose; Felony Case, Execution of a Felony Warrant

Charles	Devonte	Norman	III	2/27/2026 10:09&nbsp;PM	Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant,					Assault of LEO; Properly identified on duty

&nbsp;State Senator Michael Murphy is calling for a temporary halt on new data center development in parts of south-central Kansas, citing concerns about water use, energy demand and long-term infrastructure impacts.

Murphy, a Republican from Sylvia representing the 34th District, issued a statement Monday urging county commissions in Reno, Kingman and Barber counties to adopt a three-year moratorium on new data center projects.

“While large-scale data centers may come with some enticing incentives, they also bring some very well-known, and unknown, problems,” Murphy said in the release. He pointed to the significant water consumption required to operate such facilities and the strain they can place on local electric grids.

Murphy said data centers “use huge amounts of water, water we do not have to spare,” and argued that a single facility could consume more electricity than a new power plant planned for Reno County could produce.

The senator also raised questions about transparency and long-term impacts, including who would bear the cost of increased power demand and the potential health effects of exposure to infrasound. He said residents have expressed concerns that have not been fully addressed.

“Before we bring these centers to our counties, we need some answers to these questions and more, data driven from serious studies, not just answers to placate the people,” Murphy said.

Murphy called on county officials in the three counties to enact a three-year pause on new data center development to allow time for scientific study and public review. He said such a moratorium would provide an opportunity for “meaningful, thorough scientific studies” and help restore public confidence.

The 34th District includes portions of Reno, Kingman and Barber counties.

Murphy also referenced comments by Senate Majority Leader Blasi, saying that if local moratoriums are not adopted, he would support the introduction of state legislation to address the issue.

“I hope we can continue the good relationship between the state and the district and look forward to working together in the best interests of our citizens and communities,” Murphy said.

Murphy calls for halt on data center development

Leadership is often defined not during easy seasons, but in moments of uncertainty, loss, and change. For Erica Rivera, resilience has become a defining characteristic of her six years as Executive Director of Beyond Barriers and her 19-year commitment to the organization overall.

Headquartered in Hutchinson with offices in Dodge City and Pratt, Beyond Barriers provides employment services, independent living resources, vision services, advocacy, and education. All services are free of charge. The organization believes individuals are healthiest and happiest when they are connected to and contributing within their communities.

Rivera stepped into executive leadership following a season of profound transition. The organization had experienced the retirement of its longtime Executive Director and the sudden passing of Assistant Director Andy Reichart, leaving both emotional and operational gaps.

“Loss changes you,” Rivera said. “It reminds you how important people are — the staff you work beside and the consumers you serve. It strengthened my resolve to lead with heart and purpose.” 

Her leadership has been marked not only by professional challenges, \but deeply personal highs and lows as well, including battling cancer \and welcoming a grandchild.

Those experiences shaped her leadership philosophy: steady, compassionate, and grounded in perspective.

“Over the past six years, I have grown in confidence and leadership. Stepping into the Executive Director role challenged me in new ways and helped me learn how to make difficult decisions, manage responsibilities, and lead with purpose. I have learned to trust myself more and believe in my ability to lead. I am still learning every day, but I am proud of how far I have come and how much I have grown both personally and professionally,” said Rivera. 

Colleagues describe Rivera as someone who blends institutional wisdom with courage. Having served in multiple roles over 19 years, she understands the organization from the inside out, from direct consumer services to strategic oversight. At the same time, she has not hesitated to innovate.

Under her leadership, Beyond Barriers has:

Rivera’s willingness to try new ideas, combined with her deep loyalty to the organization’s mission, has positioned Beyond Barriers for long-term success.

For Rivera, leadership is not about titles or timelines. It is about people. “It’s important to stay connected to the individuals we serve,” she said. “If we lose sight of that, we lose sight of everything.”

Six years into her executive role and 19 years after first walking \through the doors as a young professional, Rivera’s commitment remains clear: remove barriers, strengthen communities, and ensure every individual has the opportunity to live independently and contribute fully.

Rivera marks six years guiding Beyond Barriers

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Three American service members have been killed and five have been seriously wounded in military operations targeting Iran, the U.S. military said.

They are the first reported American casualties since the U.S. and Israel launched a surprise attack on Iran.

U.S. Central Command said Sunday in a post on X that several others “sustained minor shrapnel injuries and concussions — and are in the process of being returned to duty.”

The post stated that major combat operations will continue. It did not provide further information about the casualties and described the situation as “fluid.”

3 US service members killed, 5 wounded in Iran operation

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — CoreCivic can’t house immigration detainees before reaching an agreement with the city of Leavenworth on reopening its private prison, the Kansas Court of Appeals ruled Friday when it upheld a lower court’s decision.

“There is nothing to suggest that CoreCivic is being singled out here,” the Court of Appeals decision said. “The City is merely attempting to enforce its zoning regulations that impose requirements on every entity regardless of its status as a contractor with the federal government.”

Nashville-based CoreCivic&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/10/corecivic-appeals-to-overturn-injunction-keeping-it-from-housing-ice-detainees/">appealed an injunction</a>&nbsp;by Leavenworth County District Court that banned it from beginning to take detainees to fulfill its U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement contract. The company announced in 2025 that it would reopen its closed prison as the Midwest Regional Reception Center.&nbsp;

Leavenworth officials said CoreCivic needed a special use permit to do so. The disagreement launched back-and-forth court cases, one of which spawned the injunction against housing detainees while the two worked it out.

In the midst of court actions, CoreCivic applied for a special use permit that is&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/25/after-marathon-meeting-corecivic-moves-closer-to-reopening-leavenworth-prison/">nearing approval</a>&nbsp;by city officials.

In its decision, Court of Appeals judges listed three facts they considered before upholding the decision by Leavenworth County District Judge John Bryant — whether the district court’s decision was “arbitrary, fanciful or unreasonable,” based on an error in law or a factual error.

Chief Judge Sarah Warner and Judges Thomas Malone and Stephen Hill issued a 22-page decision that stepped through district court arguments before determining no errors were made in the original ruling.

The appeals court decision outlines the case Leavenworth presented in support of the injunction and breaks down why the district court didn’t err in its decision.

CoreCivic argued the city’s case didn’t have crucial elements that make the injunction reasonable, including a “substantial likelihood” of success and tangible, irreparable harm. The Court of Appeals considered the district judge’s decision on those elements and disagreed with the company.

In considering whether irreparable harm was an issue, the court noted “alarming” testimony supporting the city’s reports that CoreCivic denied local law enforcement access to investigate crimes.

“Patrick Kitchens, the City’s Chief of Police, offered sworn testimony about CoreCivic’s operation of the MRRC that is, to put it mildly, somewhat alarming,” the Appeals decision said. “Kitchens testified that ‘the Leavenworth Police Department encountered many significant problems in responding to reports of crimes, including violent felonies, at the Facility. Due to frequent changes in leadership at CoreCivic, we had difficulty in getting these problems addressed.’ ”

Kitchens gave evidence of a November 2018 inmate death that CoreCivic didn’t report to police for six days, that CoreCivic discouraged police from investigating at least three sexual assaults and that the company didn’t allow employees who were crime victims to interview with city police while they were on duty.

“We have more than (enough) evidence of ‘past harms’ to support the City’s request for a temporary injunction,” the appeals judges wrote. “CoreCivic’s actions demonstrate a very real and imminent harm. … The substantial evidence of the City’s problems with CoreCivic’s operation of the facility combined with the minimal evidence the problems will be addressed supports a reasonable probability of irreparable harm.”

CoreCivic officials have been working through Leavenworth’s special permit process, including addressing Kitchens’ concerns. Kitchens told city commissioners at a meeting last week that he believes previous problems will be addressed by the special use permit.

The permitting process, which led to about 100 people offering public input on the issue, is nearing completion. The Leavenworth City Commission voted 4-1 to pass the permit on for second consideration, which will be March 10. At that point, the commission will vote on the permit or could remand it go back to the city’s planning commission and ask for changes.

If the city denies the permit, CoreCivic can appeal in district court.

Kansas Court of Appeals ruled CoreCivic can’t house ICE detainees without Leavenworth permit

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) &nbsp;—A massive explosion&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-israel-us-03-01-2026-693bc30bbbc98660d81f4a13f65ca10f">struck Iran’s capital</a>&nbsp;Sunday as the Israeli military said it was striking targets in central Tehran. Earlier,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/iran">Iran&nbsp;</a>fired missiles at an ever-widening list of targets in Israel and Gulf Arab states in retaliation for the killing of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-supreme-leader-ayatollah-ali-khamenei-dead-5b13b69b708c4ed38e8f95f5fb41a597">Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei&nbsp;</a>by the United States and Israel.

The blast in Tehran sent a huge plume of smoke into the sky and shook the ground. It appeared centered in neighborhoods home to the country’s police headquarters and Iranian state television, as well as Tehran’s Revolutionary Court and a Defense Ministry building.

The joint U.S.-Israel attack on Iran followed weeks of tensions as the Trump administration built up&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-military-iran-buildup-nuclear-program-5663a8b0d81c8439adfaa010c59a36f5">the largest force of American warships and aircraft</a>&nbsp;in the Middle East in decades. The president insisted he wanted a deal to constrain Iran’s nuclear program. Iran responded to the U.S.-Israeli strikes by launching missiles and drones toward Israel and targeting U.S. military installations in the region.

US priority is Iran's ‘vast missile arsenal'

The chairman of the U.S. Senate Intelligence Committee says a priority for its joint military campaign is Iran’s “vast missile arsenal.”

Republican Tom Cotton of Arkansas told CBS’ “Face the Nation” that those missiles threatened American troops “from bases as far flung as the Indian Ocean to Western Europe.”

“We’re stopping a lot of them from being fired before Iran can fire them. It’s much easier to kill the archer on the ground than it is to shoot his arrows out of the sky,” he said in the television interview.

Israel says it its strikes killed 40 top Iranian military officials

Israel’s military claimed Sunday that its strikes had killed 40 top Iranian military officials, including the chief of staff for the Iranian armed forces, Abdolrahim Mousavi. Israel did not provide evidence, and neither Iran nor the United States immediately commented on the claim.

The Israeli military also said it had “dismantled the majority of the aerial defense systems in western and central Iran” and was “paving the way towards establishing aerial superiority over the skies of Tehran.”

Egypt’s leader warns of chaos in the Middle East

Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi of Egypt has warned that the Middle East could slide into chaos as the conflict involving the U.S., Israel and Iran entered a second day.

He called for “dialogue and peaceful means” to settle the region’s crises, saying that the escalation has serious consequences that could push the Mideast into chaos. El-Sissi’s comments came in a phone call Sunday with Oman’s leader, Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, according to the Egyptian leader’s office.

Pope Leo XIV said Sunday he was “profoundly concerned” about the U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran and urged both sides to “stop the spiral of violence before it becomes an irreparable abyss.”

In the Holy See’s first reaction to the attacks, the American pope called for the resumption of diplomacy and a “reasonable, authentic and responsible” dialogue based on justice.

Weapons only sow “destruction, pain and death," he said from his studio window overlooking St. Peter’s Square at his traditional noontime blessing.

China calls killing of Iran's supreme leader ‘unacceptable’

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi sharply criticized the killing of Khamenei in a phone call with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov.

“The blatant killing of the leader of a sovereign state and the incitement of regime change are unacceptable,” he was quoted as saying by China’s official Xinhua News Agency. “These actions violate international law and the basic norms governing international relations.”

He said attacking a sovereign state without U.N. Security Council authorization undermines the foundation for peace established after World War II.

“The international community should speak in a clear and unequivocal voice, opposing the world regressing to the law of the jungle,” he said.

British warplanes poised to knock out Iranian missiles and drones

British Defense Minister John Healey said Iranian missile and drone strikes came within a few hundred yards (meters) of a group of 300 British military personnel in Bahrain and that two missiles were fired in the direction of Cyprus, where the U.K. has bases.

“We don’t believe they were targeted at Cyprus, but nevertheless, it’s an example of how there is a very real and rising threat from a regime that is lashing out widely across the region, and that requires us to act,” Healey told Sky News.

He said British planes will intercept any Iranian drones and missiles they see.

Cyprus government spokesman Constantinos Letymbiotis posted on X that reports suggesting missiles had been fired toward Cyprus are not valid and that “there is no indication whatsoever that any threat to the country has occurred.”

Putin, Hezbollah leader mourn Khamenei’s death

Russian President Vladimir Putin said the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was “a cynical violation of all norms of human morality and international law.”

Putin on Sunday sent condolences to his Iranian counterpart, saying Khamenei will be remembered “as an outstanding statesman” who helped elevate Russian-Iranian relations.

In Lebanon, the leader of the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militant group, Naim Kassem, mourned Khamenei’s death in a U.S.-Israeli strike, and said: “We will fulfill our duty in confronting aggression.” He vowed that Hezbollah will not abandon its resistance of confronting American and Israeli “tyranny.”

The United Arab Emirates' Defense Ministry said Sunday that three people have been killed so far in Iranian attacks on the country.

The ministry said Iran had launched 165 ballistic missiles targeting the country, of which 152 were destroyed. Thirteen fell into the sea, it added.

Iran launched 541 bomb-carrying drones at the UAE, of which 506 were destroyed. Another 35 struck the country, killing three people from Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh, while 58 others were wounded.

Iran has launched 97 ballistic missiles at Kuwait

Iran fired 97 ballistic missiles and 283 drones at Kuwait since the start of the war between the U.S., Israel and Iran, the Gulf nation’s military said.

The military said in a statement interception operations led to shrapnel falling in parts of the county, causing “limited damage.”

On Saturday, the military said three Kuwaiti troops were wounded when shrapnel landed in the Ali Al Salem airbase.

Israel’s police said at least five people were killed and 23 others wounded in a strike that hit central Israel on Sunday.

A spokesperson for the rescue services said searches were ongoing for additional victims.

Iran has so far launched dozens of rockets at Israel.

Pakistani prime minister offers condolences over Khamenei's killing

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday conveyed his condolences to Tehran following the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

He said his country was gravely concerned about the violation of international law, as heads of state shouldn’t be targeted.

This follows repeated Iranian attacks on the kingdom.

The state-run Saudi Press Agency said the country expressed “dismay, condemnation and denunciation of the Iranian attacks on the kingdom and the Gulf states.”

It added that the kingdom “will take all necessary measures to defend its security and protect its territory.”

Israel’s state plane moved to Berlin airport

Israel’s state plane has been moved to Berlin’s BER airport, according to a reporter at the German press agency, dpa, who said they saw the craft at the tarmac.

According to dpa, which quoted Flightradar data, the plane left Israel Saturday afternoon, circled over the Mediterranean for hours, and then landed in Berlin in the evening.

Israel’s state aircraft, “Wing of Zion,” is a Boeing 767 equipped for official government trips, serving both the president and the prime minister.

There have been no immediate comments from the Berlin airport or the Israeli embassy in Berlin.

Saudi Arabia strongly condemns Iranian attack on its capital

Saudi Arabia has condemned in “the strongest terms” Iran’s attacks on the capital, Riyadh and the eastern region, which it said were “successfully intercepted.”

The Saudi foreign ministry said Sunday in a statement the attacks came “despite the Iranian authorities’ knowledge that the Kingdom had affirmed it would not allow its airspace or territory to be used to target Iran.”

 Iran’s counterattacks widen after supreme leader killed

By&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/matthew-lee">MATTHEW LEE</a> Associated Press

U.S. embassies and consulates across the Middle East instructed employees to shelter in place for a second day on Sunday as joint U.S.-Israel military strikes on Iran continue and Iran launches missile and drone strikes in retaliation.

Embassies in Bahrain, Israel, Iraq, Jordan, Oman, Pakistan all advised private American citizens living or traveling in those countries to take similar precautions.

The State Department on Saturday issued a “worldwide caution,” warning Americans abroad everywhere, but particularly in the Middle East to boost their personal security profiles.

“Following the launch of U.S. combat operations in Iran, Americans worldwide and especially in the Middle East should follow the guidance in the latest security alerts issued by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate,” it said.

U.S. State Dept. issues “worldwide caution” warning to Americans

WASHINGTON (AP) — Key members of Congress are demanding a swift vote on a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/war-powers-act-trump-congress-9e6832fb5f5f844acf8992008d3a8d63">war powers resolution</a>&nbsp;that would restrain President Donald Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/live-updates-israel-iran-february-28-2026">military attack on Iran</a>&nbsp;unless the administration wins their approval for what they warn is a potentially illegal campaign that risks pulling the United States into a deeper&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/live-updates-israel-iran-february-28-2026#0000019c-a522-ddac-ad9f-b7f7ce450000">Middle East conflict</a>.

Both the House and Senate, where the president’s Republican Party has a slim majority, had already drafted such resolutions long before the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-us-explosion-tehran-c2f11247d8a66e36929266f2c557a54c">strikes Saturday</a>. Now they are ready to plunge into a rare war powers debate next week that will serve as a referendum on Trump’s decision to go it alone on military action without formal authorization from Congress.

“Has President Trump learned nothing from decades of U.S. meddling in Iran and forever wars in the Middle East?” said Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., a leader in the bipartisan effort. He said the strikes on Iran were “a colossal mistake.”

In the House, Reps. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., and Thomas Massie, R-Ky., are demanding Congress go on record with a public vote on their own bipartisan measure. “Congress must convene on Monday to vote,” Khanna said, “to stop this.”

Massie blasted Trump’s own presidential campaign slogan and said: “This is not ‘America First.’”

But most Republicans, particularly their leaders, welcomed Trump’s move against Iran. Many cited the longtime U.S. adversary’s nuclear programs and missile capabilities as requiring a military response.

“Well done, Mr. President,” said Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C. “As I watch and monitor this historic operation, I’m in awe of President Trump’s determination to be a man of peace but at the end of the day, evil’s worst nightmare.”

The administration’s decision to launch, with Israel, what appears to be an open-ended joint military operation aimed at changing the government in Tehran is testing the Constitution’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-venezuela-house-war-powers-19b78647b9d39cad589fa9fc4477e815">separation of powers</a>&nbsp;in deep and dramatic ways. Nearly two months earlier, Trump ordered U.S. strikes that toppled Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.

While presidents have the authority as the commander in chief to conduct certain strategic military operations on their own, the Constitution vests Congress with the power to wage war. Before the Iraq War began in March 2003, Republican President George W. Bush made a monthslong push to secure congressional authorization. No such vote was attempted on Iran, and an earlier Senate effort to halt Trump’s actions after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-nuclear-program-military-strikes-trump-f0fc085a2605e7da3e2f47ff9ac0e01d">last summer’s strike on Iran</a>&nbsp;failed.

The congressional debate over war powers would mostly be symbolic. Even if a resolution were to pass the narrowly split Congress, Trump likely would veto it and Congress would not have the two-thirds majority needed to overturn that rejection. Congress has often failed to block other U.S. military actions, including in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-venezuela-senate-war-powers-2350b162d116090759a7428c4b915eea">Senate vote on Venezuela</a>, but the roll calls stand as a public record.

The response by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mike-johnson/">House Speaker Mike Johnson</a>&nbsp;reflected the party’s long-standing views. Iran, he said, is facing “the severe consequences of its evil actions.”

Johnson, R-La., said the leaders of the House and Senate and the respective intelligence committees had been briefed in detail earlier in the week that military action “may become necessary” to protect U.S. troops and citizens in Iran. He said he received updates from Secretary of State Marco Rubio and will stay in “close contact” with Trump and the Defense Department “as this operation proceeds.”

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., commended Trump “for taking action to thwart these threats.”

Thune said he looked forward to administration officials briefing all senators — a signal that lawmakers are seeking more answers to their questions about Trump’s plans ahead.

Many Democrats are calling the operation illegal, saying the Constitution gives Congress alone the power to declare war. To them, the administration has failed to lay out its rationale or plan for the military strikes, and the aftermath.

Sen. Chris Van Hollen, who serves on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said the president has undertaken “illegal, regime-change war against Iran.”

“This is not making us safer &amp; only damages the US &amp; our interests,” Van Hollen, D-Md., said in a social media post. “The Senate must immediately vote on the War Powers Resolution to stop it.”

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