chennai super kings In a major setback ahead of IPL 2026, Australia pacer Nathan Ellis has been ruled out with a hamstring injury.The 31-year-old fast bowler last played for Tasmania in the Australian One-Day Cup final in Hobart, where he took 2/26 in five overs as they lost to New South Wales. While the exact timing of Ellis’ injury is unclear, Ellis had earlier been dealing with a hamstring issue that forced him to miss the knockout stages of the Big Bash League, where he captained the Hobart Hurricanes.Ellis is expected to play a key role as CSK’s main death bowler and is set to be a specialist in that phase, especially after the team parted ways with Mathesha Pathirana before the auction. His absence now leaves a major void, forcing the team management to look for alternatives.Here are five players who could replace Ellis:Otniel Bartman (South Africa)Perhaps the closest replacement, Buteman has earned high praise, with South African spinner Keshav Maharaj calling him the best death bowler in the country. He played a key role in Sunrisers Eastern Cape winning back-to-back SA20 titles in 2023 and 2024 and also contributed to South Africa’s run to the 2024 T20 World Cup finals. Unsold in the IPL 2026 auction and having been previously linked with Texas Super Kings, he represents a perfect fit for CSK.Sean Abbott (Australia)A proven performer in T20 cricket, Abbott fits CSK’s preference for an experienced Australian pacer. He holds the record for most wickets in BBL history with 165 scalps, which highlights his consistency, especially in pressure situations. His accuracy and experience at the death make him a strong candidate to fill Ellis’ position.Gerald Coetzee (South Africa)Coetzee offers a higher-impact but less risky option. He is South Africa’s best player at the 2023 ODI World Cup and is the player who has taken the most wickets at a single World Cup in South Africa. Known for his pace and ability to move the ball, he is very effective both in the front and in the death overs. However, injuries remain an issue as he missed the 2026 T20 World Cup and played just three games in the 2026 SA20. If healthy, he could be a game-winning addition. He also has IPL experience, having played for Mumbai Indians.Sharma Joseph (West Indies)Joseph brings an element of unpredictability, but also great potential. He made headlines with figures of 7/68 in Brisbane, helping West Indies to a historic win over Australia after 27 years. While he is primarily known for his red-ball exploits, his raw pace and gliding action translate well to T20 cricket. After being released by Lucknow Supergiants, he was unsold in the IPL 2026 auction but remains an interesting option.Fazal Haq Farooqi (Afghanistan)Left arm pacemaker with previous IPL experience rajasthan royals and went on to become a regular in Afghanistan’s T20 set-up. Although he has taken 6 wickets in 12 IPL matches, his economy rate of 10.32 has been a concern. Nonetheless, his ability to provide versatility as a left-arm seamer may appeal to CSK, and he is also a viable option for death bowling.
Nancy Guthrie, 84, mother of “TODAY” host Savannah GuthrieReported missing on February 1, the focus may be back on her neighbors. authorities believe Guthrie It’s been more than a month since she was taken from her home the night before, but law enforcement officials have yet to release the suspect’s name or find Guthrie.
Nancy Guthrie was reported missing on February 1 by her family. (AFP Getty Images)
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos announced that members of the Guthrie family, including Anne Guthrie and her husband, Tommaso Scioni, are not suspects in the case.
However, they may focus more on her neighborhood in Catalina Foothills. Tucson, Arizona. A former SWAT commander with the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, who is investigating the case, offered the same advice. Additionally, the FBI, which is assisting with the case, has also been talking to neighbors about two key dates in January – a month before Guthrie was reported missing.
Former SWAT commander says about Nancy Guthrie
Retired SWAT commander Bob Krygier suggested a nearby house could serve as a “staging area.” The former law enforcement official said this would allow the perpetrators to “fly under the radar” and they could secretly monitor “people’s comings and goings” in the community, including Guthrie’s mother, according to procession.
“A like [a vacant home]An area away from the prying eyes of neighbors can also be a place to install surveillance equipment if one chooses. [to do so]it can be easily hidden in a building or property without anyone knowing,” the retired army officer said.
Self-proclaimed investigator Jonathan Lee Riches, who has been covering the case in Tucson so far, also said additional “The FBI made multiple trips to a house under construction at the corner of Camino Escalante and Camino Miraval. Focused on cheap labor. Just down the street from Nancy Guthrie.”
The FBI also asked neighbors about two dates in January, which one expert believes means the FBI may have some information relevant to the Guthrie case they are investigating.
FBI asks neighbor for January date
Guthrie’s neighbors were interviewed on January 11 and January 24, and FBI agents are seeking surveillance video from both days according to American Express. Both days are Saturdays in January.
Legal expert Chad D. Cummings commented on the matter in an interview with the publication. “I do not believe that January 11 and 24 were the dates that investigators extracted from eyewitness interviews. The witnesses did not remember the specific Saturdays six and three weeks before the crime. It is likely that those dates came from the data,” he said.
Cummings added, “Cell tower records produce accurate timestamps. When the FBI identified the phone number that pinged a tower near Nancy Guthrie’s home on the night of January 31, the next step was to backtrack that number in the carrier’s records and find all other dates the call appeared in the same geographic area.”
He then went on to say, “January 11th and 24th are likely dates before the phone appeared.” The legal expert further suggested that this may be why the FBI wanted the footage from those dates.
“The bureau is aware of a device in the area,” Cummings said, adding that they needed “visual confirmation and a description of the person carrying the device.” Cummings said the FBI “can match this sighting to the cellular data it already has and build a case that can be presented to a grand jury.”
“That also explains why no arrests have been made. The FBI has a phone number. But the phone may not have a name attached to it yet,” he added.
The US says the structural integrity of the Marshall Islands’ Runit Dome, described as a 115-metre-wide concrete “coffin”, is at risk Government Accountability Office (GAO). The dome was built over an unlined crater from a 1958 nuclear explosion that contained more than 120,000 tons of radioactive debris, much of it composed of plutonium-239-contaminated soil. Rising sea levels and increased storm intensity in the Central Pacific have caused the 18-inch-thick concrete dome cover to be damaged by forces (e.g., high and low tides) that were not anticipated when the dome was built and were never designed with its permanent storage in mind. The porous nature of the coral matrix in which the crater is located allows radioactive waste to “float” up and down with the tides and allows seawater to penetrate the debris. The continued leakage of seawater from the deteriorating concrete cladding, coupled with large cracks visible on the surface, created an environmental disaster that was a “ticking time bomb” during the Cold War.
Runet Dome’s time bomb: Cracks and missing base allow radioactive water to flow through
One of the dangers of the Runit Dome is not only the exterior cracking, but also the lack of a base lining inside the dome. As mentioned in GAO reportWhen the U.S. Defense Nuclear Agency (DNA), with support from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, built the dome in the late 1970s, it used a “cactus” explosion crater for radioactive soil disposal and did not use a concrete foundation to reduce costs. As a result, radioactive waste is in constant contact with groundwater and rises and falls in response to ocean tides. This resulted in what is commonly known as the “pump,” or daily discharge of radioactive isotopes into the lagoon surrounding Runet Dome.
How rising sea levels could damage Runet Dome
According to the Office for National Statistics, Runet Island is only 25 feet above sea level. U.S. Department of Energy 2024 Climate Report. Currently, rising sea levels are pushing radioactive groundwater into porous areas. This creates greater internal pressure and “foundation” cracks in the surface of the structure. These cracks allow rainwater to enter the building, while carrying plutonium-239 underground and into the water table surrounding the building through existing channels in the area. The report states that a large typhoon surge could cause internal contents to be washed into the Eniwetak Lagoon, as sediment and small particles would be washed into the lagoon through channels.
Is the Roonet Dome about to collapse?
Today, the rupture of Runet Dome is a sight of structural destruction and a template for a decaying nuclear history. this Government Accountability Office (GAO) and Department of Energy (DOE) The report confirms that the “interim” 50-year design has reached its design life. Without international action to stabilize unlined craters, rising Pacific tides will continue to “pump” plutonium into the environment. Protecting the Marshall Islands from catastrophic washouts is now a matter of global environmental justice or one that requires immediate climate action.
Stepping outside in the middle of summer can feel unbearable. Walking inside, things weren’t much better. With temperatures exceeding 40°C in many parts of India, staying cool at home is no longer a comfort but a daily struggle.
Budget Cooling Solutions When Air Conditioning Is Too Expensive. (generated by artificial intelligence)
Aishwarya is your go-to guide for making your home, especially your kitchen, the smartest, most efficient space on the block. If you find yourself wondering which air fryer actually delivers the perfect crisp, whether a new-age water purifier is worth the hype, or how to make your refrigerator work smarter (not harder), she’s the one for you. For over five years, Aishwarya has delved into the world of home and kitchen technology, reviewing everything from air fryers and microwaves to chimneys and water purifiers. Her approach is simple: cut down on the jargon, highlight real innovation, and focus on budget-friendly solutions without compromising on quality. Her columns are a combination of fresh products and honest opinions. There’s no sugar-coating, no fancy marketing gimmicks. Each review is drawn from real, practical experience, providing readers with the unfiltered truth, both good and bad (and sometimes brutal). Aishwarya is a big believer in viral “how-to” hacks, and she loves sharing home appliance hacks like microwave cleaning tips that involve lemon and absolutely zero scrubbing, hassle-free refrigerator care tips (sometimes all you need to do is defrost), and everything in between. She does her best to make home technology less overwhelming and more fun.
Read moreRead less
Air conditioning may seem like the obvious solution, but not everyone can afford it or even have it installed. Due to upfront costs, rising electricity bills, and practical issues with rental housing, air conditioning isn’t right for most people.
The good news is, you don’t always need one. Indian households have been relying on a combination of smart appliances and simple tricks to cope with the heat. Even today, there are some affordable cooling options that can make a real difference if you know what actually works.
Why air conditioning isn’t always practical
In theory, AC solved the problem. In fact, they face their own set of challenges.
The first is cost. Buying an air conditioner is just the beginning, you’ll also need to pay for installation, stabilizers in some cases, and regular maintenance. It can quickly turn into a long-term expense.
Then there’s the power consumption. Running your air conditioner for several hours a day during the summer can significantly increase your monthly energy bill, which is something many households are trying to avoid.
There is also the issue of flexibility. If you live in a rental or move frequently, installing a split air conditioner isn’t always convenient. Even window air conditioners require proper space and setup.
Because of this, many people are looking for options that are easier to manage, save money, and still provide good relief from the heat.
Budget cooling options in India
Air coolers: still the most practical option
If there’s one device that’s closest to air conditioning without costing as much, it’s the air cooler.
There is a reason why they are widely used in India as they are affordable, easy to maintain and do not consume much electricity. From large desert coolers for larger rooms to compact personal coolers, there’s something for every space.
In dry areas, especially North India, air coolers work amazingly well. The air feels fresh without being dry, and cool enough for everyday comfort.
That said, they require proper ventilation to function properly. Keeping windows slightly open helps air circulate better. While they struggle in humid weather, under the right conditions they are easily the best budget alternative to air conditioners.
Fans do more than just spin
A fan may seem simple, but the right fan can change the feel of a room.
High-speed ceiling fans improve airflow throughout the room, making the heat more bearable. BLDC fans are of particular interest because they consume much less power and are designed to be used for longer periods of time.
Floor and table fans are also useful, especially when you need concentrated airflow. Instead of cooling the room, they cool you directly, and sometimes that’s enough.
In many homes, upgrading to a better fan setup can make a significant difference on its own without adding too much to the budget.
Portable air conditioners: flexible but not cheap
Portable air conditioners are often considered a simpler alternative to traditional air conditioners. They do not require permanent installation and can be moved from room to room.
This sounds ideal for renters or people who don’t want a permanent setup. But there are trade-offs.
Portable air conditioners are still expensive compared to coolers and don’t provide as cooling effect as split air conditioners. They also consume quite a bit of electricity.
So while they solve the flexibility problem, they don’t entirely solve the cost problem.
little fan
Sometimes, the problem isn’t just heat, but poor airflow. This is where air circulators come into play.
Unlike regular fans, they are designed to circulate air throughout the room, not just in one place. This helps reduce the closed, stuffy feeling.
Desk fans and small portable fans are also suitable for personal use—at your desk, beside your bed, or in a small room.
They won’t lower the temperature, but they will make the environment more comfortable, which is often what people really need.
Low-cost cooling tips that still work
Not every solution requires a plug. Some of the most effective cooling tips are simple and have been used in Indian homes for many years.
Damp curtains or khus curtains are a good example. As air passes through them, it cools slightly before entering the room.
Another common trick is to put ice or cold water in front of the fan. It’s not a replacement for a cooling unit, but it does provide temporary relief.
Opening windows at night lets in cool air, especially after the sun goes down. Morning ventilation works the same way.
These methods may seem basic, but when combined with other options, they can actually help reduce the overall heat in your home.
Cool bedding and everyday comfort
A lot of summer discomfort comes from body temperature, not just room temperature.
Switching to cotton sheets instead of synthetic sheets can make a big difference. Cotton allows for better air circulation and feels lighter on the skin.
Bamboo mats are another simple option that many households still rely on. They don’t trap heat and you’ll feel cooler while sleeping.
Even small changes, like using a lighter blanket or breathable pillowcase, can improve your nighttime comfort.
Manage Power: Inverter and Solar Support
While not directly related to cooling, backup power plays an important role in summer comfort.
Frequent power outages can render even the best cooling unit useless. Inverters ensure fans and coolers keep running when you need them most.
Some households are also turning to solar power to reduce electricity costs, especially if they rely heavily on cooling equipment during the summer.
Cooling your home is also about smart habits
Cooling isn’t just about the product you buy, it’s also about how you manage your space.
Stop heat from entering your home in the first place. Thick curtains, blinds, or even simple shades can reduce direct sunlight.
Try to avoid using electrical appliances that heat up during the day. Cooking, ironing or even turning on too many lights can raise the room temperature.
Light-colored interiors reflect heat better than dark interiors, which helps keep the room slightly cooler.
Even indoor plants, while not a primary cooling solution, can improve the overall feel of a space and make it more comfortable.
What really works in Indian conditions
There is no one solution that works everywhere. The best setup depends on your location and living conditions.
In dry areas, air coolers combined with proper ventilation work very well.
In humid cities, fans and airflow are even more important because coolers lose their effectiveness.
For small rooms, a combination of high-speed fans and simple cooling techniques is usually enough.
If your budget allows, adding a portable air conditioner can improve comfort, but it’s not always necessary.
in conclusion
Just because you don’t have air conditioning doesn’t mean you have to live with it all summer long. Staying cool is entirely possible with the right combination of appliances and making simple changes around your home.
Rather than relying on one expensive solution, it’s often better to mix and match, using coolers where they work, improving airflow with better fans, and supporting it with small daily habits.
In the end, dealing with Indian Summer isn’t about spending more money, it’s about making smarter choices that work for your home and budget.
Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay updated with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has affiliate partnerships, so we may get a share of the revenue when you make a purchase. We are not responsible for any claims relating to the products under applicable law (including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act 2019). The products listed in this article are in no particular order of preference.
A former senior U.S. counterterrorism official is reportedly under investigation for allegedly leaking classified information to media figures.
Kent resigns as director of National Counterterrorism Center (AP)
NOTUS cited sources as saying the FBI had launched a counterintelligence investigation into the matter. Joe Kent before he resigned earlier this week.
A law enforcement source told way out Kent “leaked confidential information from the server to members of the media.” Pro-Trump media figures including Tucker Carlson are also involved in the investigation, the report said. So far, no charges have been announced publicly.
director of the fbi Kashi Patel According to NOTUS, it is considering declassifying details related to the case. The reporting was intended to show that the investigation into Kent began before he retired from government service, to allay concerns that the investigation could be seen as politically motivated.
A government official told the outlet that releasing more information could clarify when the investigation began and what it contains.
Resign
Kent resigned as director of the National Counterterrorism Center over disagreement with U.S. policy toward Iran under the president Donald Trump.
“Iran does not pose an imminent threat to our country,” Kent said in opposing the administration’s military stance. However, reports show he was not directly involved in critical intelligence assessments related to the policy.
Investigate before exit
A separate report from Semafor revealed that Kent was under FBI scrutiny even before he publicly announced his resignation.
The overlap between the investigation and his departure raises questions about timing that officials may address with possible declassifications.
The investigation is ongoing and authorities have not yet confirmed whether any confidential material has been shared or whether legal action will be taken.
Pakistan Home Minister and Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and head coach Mike Hesson (AP Photo/Anjum Naveed)
Pakistan cricket’s recurring pattern of hype followed by disappointment and backlash has resurfaced again after yet another impressive performance. An early exit from the Super Eight stage of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, followed by a 2-1 loss in the ODI series in Bangladesh, triggered sharp criticism from the former opener Ahmed Shehzad.Shehzad’s comments were not limited to electoral debates or leadership issues. Instead, he was targeting what he saw as deeper structural issues within the Pakistan Cricket Board. According to him, the board spent several years promoting a select group of players to serve as ambassadors for the national team and the national team. pakistan super leagueonly to find themselves in trouble when performance began to decline.“The level of your players is not up to the standards established by the Pakistan Cricket Board for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 5 and 7 years ago. These boys aged 6-8 are also the face of the PSL. They are also the face of our Pakistan team. Will they change the destiny of Pakistan?” Ahmed Shehzad questioned in a video posted on his YouTube channel.He further accused the board of supporting this core group through endorsements, leadership roles and financial support but failing to ensure accountability.“You gave these boys all the sponsorship, endorsed them and invested in them. You made them captains in the PSL, right? You made them the thumbs up of the Pakistan team. You gave the entire Pakistan cricket team to these 6 boys and their agents. What have they done now? The fire they lit in the jungle, the joy and parties they had, they filled their pockets, they had fun and they did so without bringing any victory to Pakistan,” Shehzad said.His criticism reflects long-standing concerns about Pakistan cricket, with certain players repeatedly promoted to central figures without consistent results to justify such support. Shehzad believes the problem is not just performance, but a lack of responsibility among the players.“So bold that even today, they are ready to admit that we are responsible. None of these players. Even today, they are playing the blame game. Even today, their ego is not broken. The Pakistan Cricket Board is too weak now,” he added.He also questioned the authority of the board, suggesting it had lost control of the participants it authorized.“Whenever you talk about any player, they start making up stories. I have never seen Pakistan Cricket Board so weak in my life, as weak as this PCB. They have power, right? But in their decision-making, they seem to kneel in front of their players. This PCB can’t do anything. The job they are supposed to do – bring in new faces – they don’t. What they do is, after every game, they try to play new tricks but the public has now caught on to their pattern,” he said.For Shehzad, the issues extend far beyond a single series loss or tournament exit. He believes Pakistan cricket is addressing a larger systemic problem that prioritizes star development over renewal and accountability, trapping the team in a cycle that is difficult to break.
Thiruvananthapuram: Ending days of uncertainty, the Congress on Thursday announced the second list of 37 candidates in Kerala, completing the selection process for all 95 seats where the party will contest in the state. As per the directives of the party high command, no sitting MPs are participating in the parliamentary elections.The names in the second list include Mohammad Shiyas of Kochi, Sandeep Varrier of Trikaripur, Abin Varkey of Alanmulla, KS Sabarinadhan of Inner Mongolia and TO Mohanan of Kannur.
watch
Inner Mongolia Focus: Can the BJP turn its stronghold into a foothold in Kerala?
However, the selection process is not without internal differences. In a sign that the party may field critic and former mayor Mohanan from Kannur, former KPCC president K Sudhakaran expressed his dissatisfaction and even said he might consider joining the fray as an independent candidate.Sudhakaran, however, on Thursday ruled out contesting from Kannur as an independent, claiming that he would remain loyal to the party. Sources said Sudhakaran softened his stance after senior Congress leader AK Antony stepped in to defuse the crisis and became party president Malikajun Hager Intervene personally, contact the former president and urge restraint.In Kochi, Deepti Mary Varghese is one of the front-runners but the leadership is backing the nominee backed by Opposition Leader VD Satheesan.
Jeffrey Gorman Webb, or Jeff Webb, founder memphisBased on university spirit, the originator of the modern cheerleading industry Died at 76. While there was no official cause of death, cheerleading news site Cheer Daily said he died in an accident. Multiple obituaries made the same claim.
Varsity Spirit founder Jeff Webb dies at age 75 due to accident. (Facebook/Jeff Weber)
Meanwhile, Varsity Spirit released a statement following his death. “Varsity Brands is saddened by the passing of Jeff Webb, founder of Varsity Spirit and modern cheerleading. Jeff played a key role in shaping the sport of cheerleading today and building a community that has impacted generations of athletes, coaches and teams. In recent years, his contributions have helped grow the sport in the United States and globally, including his work with the International Cheer Federation, which received full recognition from the International Olympic Committee in 2021,” a company spokesperson said. according to Memphis Business Journal.
“Our condolences go out to Jeff’s family and loved ones, as well as to the many people in the spiritual community who were impacted by his work,” the statement added.
Given Weber’s impact on cheerleading, many are interested in learning about his wealth and family. Here’s everything you need to know about Jeff Weber’s net worth and family members.
Jeff Weber Net Worth
Weber’s exact net worth is not publicly recorded. However, estimates can be made based on several reports. The company he founded, Varsity Brands, LLC, which includes Varsity Spirit, Herff Jones and BSN SPORTS, was acquired by Bain Capital in a private transaction in 2018 with an estimated value of $2.9 billion.
While Weber’s earnings from the deal have never been publicly recorded, insiders say it’s safe to assume he pocketed nine figures, or about $100 million. according to Sporty.
Therefore, Weber’s net worth may exceed $100 million as of 2026.
Jeff Weber Family
Weber also kept his family life relatively private. The father of two reportedly enjoys spending time with his family in Memphis, tennessee.
According to a document, he is married to Cheri R Ganong. Clippings From The Commercial Appeal, a Memphis news outlet. It states that Cheri is the daughter of Mrs. James G Tobias and Mrs. James A Ganong. She reportedly graduated from Wooddale High School and Memphis State University and was a member of Alpha Gamma Delta sorority. Cheri also served as captain of the pom pom girls for four years. She was a teacher at Ridgeway High School when the news of their marriage was announced in the local newspaper.
Chandigarh: New countdown intense pulsed light The season begins, Yuzvendra Chahal He spoke candidly about the ambitions of his team Kings XI Punjab and his own resurgence. Acknowledging a tough year filled with injuries last year, the walk-on enters the season with new goals. After battling health issues, Chahal revealed that the time away from cricket had tested him both mentally and physically.Push boundaries with our YouTube channel. Subscribe now!“Last year was not easy,” Chahal said at the team’s jersey launch in Mohali. “With the support of my family, friends and everyone punjab province Management, I’ve gotten over it. I feel much healthier now. “
watch
Ajit Agarkar knocks on BCCI’s door with huge extension request | World Cup
In order to consciously rebuild himself, Chahal made lifestyle changes that underscored his commitment to peak performance. He gave up alcohol, focused on sleeping better, improved his diet, and committed to staying fit. “I hope to keep improving every year,” he added. “I may not guarantee specific results, but I will give it everything I have, both on and off the court.”This phase also represents Chahal’s spiritual reset. “It’s about being better than yesterday,” he said. “Helping the young guys, supporting my teammates and doing my best. That’s all that matters.” For Kings XI Punjab, last season was a season of high hopes that fell short. Chahal echoed the sentiment. “We played some great cricket but missed it at the end,” he said. “We have more confidence this year. The core team is intact, the atmosphere is positive and everyone is in good shape.“The team has begun preparations for the 12-day training camp in the coming days, aiming to adjust strategies and adapt to unpredictable home conditions.Despite being regarded as the chief spinner, Chahal was quick to emphasize collective strength over individual roles. “There is no ‘main’ spinner. Wickets are won through teamwork. Everyone contributes.”
At least 16 U.S. military aircraft have been destroyed since the conflict with Iran began, including 10 MQ-9 Reaper drones shot down by enemy fire, while several others were damaged in attacks and operational incidents, Bloomberg reported, citing officials.The most severe losses were attributed to accidents, including three U.S. F-15 fighter jets shot down by friendly fire in Kuwait and a KC-135 tanker destroyed during aerial operations, killing all six crew members on board. Five other KC-135 aircraft reportedly damaged in Iranian missile strikes Saudi Arabia.
watch
Washington loses 16 aircraft in Iran war, US Air Force suffers heavy losses
So far, Iranian air defenses have only shot down unmanned Reaper drones, and at least nine of them were destroyed in flight. Another person was hit by a ballistic missile at a Jordanian airport. Two other people died in the accident. These drones are designed to be disposable and are often deployed in high-risk environments due to their lower cost and lack of onboard pilots.The size of the U.S. business may have contributed to the losses. Analysts say there were more sorties flown in the early stages of the war than during the outbreak of the Gulf War. “The difference may be that the effort involved is much greater,” Bloomberg quoted Peter Leighton as saying.Despite early efforts to neutralize Iran’s air defenses, achieving full air superiority has proven difficult. A U.S. F-35 fighter jet was recently hit by what was believed to be Iranian fire and was forced to make an emergency landing at a regional air base, but the pilot survived, CNN quoted Central Command officials as saying.U.S. military officials acknowledged that only “local air superiority” had been established in parts of Iran’s airspace, underscoring ongoing operational challenges. The continued presence of active air defense systems also complicates efforts to secure key routes such as the Strait of Hormuz.Analysts say accidents during high-intensity operations are not uncommon. “In large-scale, fast-paced, high-pressure combat operations, periodic incidents such as the tragic mid-air collision with a KC-135 aircraft are likely to occur,” said Justin Bronk.As the war enters its third week, Iran has maintained a steady pace of regional attacks, including attacks on energy infrastructure in Qatar and Saudi Arabia in retaliation for attacks on its South Pars gas field.
