Media Attacks Hegseth, Europe Defends Israel, China Slowing Down

  Media Targets Pete Hegseth Over War Comments Some in the media are attacking Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for acknowledging the tragic realities of war. I explain why the criticism ignores his combat experience and is really about undermining the Trump administration. China Quietly Admits Its Economy Is Slowing China has revised its economic growth expectations downward, signaling deeper economic trouble. Meanwhile, U.S. pressure on Iran's oil trade is hitting Beijing's energy supply and exposing vulnerabilities in the Chinese economy. Europe Expands Support for Israel's Defense More European countries are joining defensive operations in the Middle East. Italy now joins Greece, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom in helping intercept Iranian missiles and drones targeting Israel. Iran Condemns U.S. After Warship Destroyed Iran is accusing the United States of violating international law after one of its ships was destroyed near Sri Lanka. I explain why that argument collapses under well-established laws of armed conflict.