US Vice President JD Vance has responded to a benefits dispute involving the widow of Air Force Maj. John “Alex” Klinner, who was killed in Iraq while supporting Operation Epic Fury. Klinner’s widow, Libby Klinner, said her family was told they may not qualify for some additional benefits because the US conflict with Iran has not been formally declared a war. She said the issue involves combat-related benefits. Asked about the case, JD Vance said the administration would contact the family and make sure Libby Klinner receives everything she is entitled to. The Air Force is also reviewing the case.

The US-Iran conflict has erupted again after weeks of relative calm, with both sides launching major attacks across the Middle East. The United States carried out strikes on Iranian military targets, while Iran retaliated by firing missiles and drones at reportedly US-linked facilities across Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan and Kuwait. Iran reported military casualties from the US strikes, including IRGC Aerospace Force personnel, Basij members and other military personnel. Tehran has warned of further retaliation as Washington signals it is prepared to strike again.