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Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is saying he’s launching Operation Economic Outcast against Iran, aimed at cutting off Iran’s economic lifelines around the globe. The Treasury says it will target networks Iran uses to sell oil, move money and evade sanctions. The Treasury says that the U.S. is giving countries a very short window to cut off these ties, warning that anyone who continues to help Tehran stay afloat could be kicked out of the U.S. dollar system.The U.S. Supreme Court has cleared the way for President Trump to enforce his executive order requiring citizenship verification for mail-in voting ahead of the November midterms. The justices, in a 6-3 decision, lifted a lower court injunction that had blocked the order in 23 Democrat-led states and Washington, D.C. The ruling gives the administration room to move forward, but with litigation still active, the final shape of mail-in voting rules for November isn't locked in yet.The Hawk Fire near Reno Nevada is showing signs of slowing, but thousands of residents are still under evacuation orders and warnings. More than 30 homes have now been destroyed and at least seven people have been injured. Firefighters have reached 27% containment, with the fire holding at about 23 square miles.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned on Aug. 23 that an “economic D-Day” is coming for the Iranian regime, with the United States taking strong measures to sever Tehran’s economic lifelines, including imposing consequences on Iran’s trade partners. Bessent will address the media on Monday and is expected to announce further U.S. sanctions targeting Iran and its trading partners.Tens of thousands have been evacuated from the Reno, Nevada, area as the fast-moving Hawk Fire threatens the city. About 42,000 residents are under evacuation orders, with another 45,000 in an evacuation warning zone. The fire has burned 15,000 acres since it began on Saturday. Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo has declared a state of emergency and deployed National Guard resources. At least six people have been injured, including three civilians and three first responders.New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said on Aug. 24 that his party will introduce a bill in Parliament that seeks ‌to ban children under 16 from using social media, proposing fines of up to 10 percent of a platform's global revenue for noncompliance. The bill would require social media platforms to take reasonable steps to verify users' ages, including using existing account information, facial technology, and digital identity documents. It was not immediately clear whether the bill would garner sufficient support to pass through Parliament, with one of Luxon's coalition partners, the New Zealand First party, saying it would not support it. The proposal follows Australia’s move last year to ban social media for children under 16.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Thursday says the U.S. is unveiling what he calls the toughest sanctions in history on Iran. Bessent says he will announce the details on Monday. He says the measures will target Iran’s ability to generate revenue and support its military and is warning countries and companies that continue trading with Iran that they could also face U-S penalties.The U.S. military on Friday says all eight people aboard a charter plane are dead, after it crashed at a remote radar site in western Alaska. Officials say the twin-engine Cessna was carrying two pilots and six passengers when it went down on THursday about 450 miles west of Anchorage. Air Force Lieutenant General Robert Davis called it ‘a devastating loss for our military family and the communities we serve.’ Senator Lisa Murkowski offered condolences to the victims' families. The cause of the crash is still under investigation.A popular election forecaster, Cook Political Report, has shifted Senate races in red states into toss-up territory. Control of the senate as a whole is a toss-up, but many analysts predict that socialist wins in battleground primaries will hurt Democrats' chances. Democrats will need a net gain of four seats to take control of the upper chamber.

President Trump declares an ‘economic D-Day’ against Iran, as diplomacy has fallen through with the regime. The president says any foreign countries that allow their financial institutions, businesses, airports, or government entities to provide any type of lifeline to Iran will face ‘TREMENDOUS Economic Consequences.’ The president didn’t name any offenders, but said that such nations ‘know who they are.’U.S. and Canadian trade official met on Wednesday after President Trump delayed a planned 50% tariff. The negotiators now face a new deadline on Saturday. Tariffs on about $20 billion of Canadian goods are scheduled to take effect if there is no deal. President Trump says the deal would also eliminate tariffs paid by American farmers exporting to Canada.A Chinese national has been charged with voter fraud in Massachusetts. The Justice Department saying he submitted a fraudulent voter registration and ballot by impersonating another Chinese national. He faces up to five years in prison for each charge of fraudulent registration and fraudulent voting, and will be deported afterwards.

The U.S. is delaying a planned 50% tariff on some Canadian goods after last-minute talks between the two countries. The tariffs were set to take effect on Wednesday, but President Trump announced on Tuesday night that he had paused them for only three days. The tariffs would have covered more than $20 billion in Canadian products, ranging from wine, hockey sticks and cement. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney says the two countries have made substantial progress, but that important work remains before a deal is finalized.Tuesday's primaries are set, clearing the way for pivotal November races in Florida, Alaska, and Wyoming. In Florida's governor's race, Congressman Byron Donalds won the Republican nomination easily, backed by President Trump and a record $111-million campaign. He will be facing Democrat David Jolly in the general election. In Florida's Senate race, Democratic Socialist Angie Nixon will face Republican Ashley Moody. And In Alaska, Former Congresswoman Mary Peltola and Senator Dan Sullivan advanced in a race that could shift control of the Senate. In Wyoming, Trump-backed Harriet Hageman won the U.S. Senate primary, while Eric Barlow claimed the GOP nomination for governor.President Trump says there are no talks underway with Iran as tensions remain high around the Strait of Hormuz. The president also says the U.S. naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is still in place. President Trump says Iran's economy and military are under severe pressure. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates says it has halted trade with Iran, after the Gulf country detected two ballistic missiles it says came from Iran.

In Florida’s 25th district, Oliver Larkin, a member of the Democratic Socialist of America, is challenging two-term Democratic Representative Jared Moskowitz. That’s after Florida passed legislature earlier this year that redistricted the state’s congressional map. Florida voters are also voting in a gubernatorial primary, with Congressman Byron Donalds in the lead.President Trump is tightening the screws on Iran, declaring the U.S. has complete control of the Strait of Hormuz as the 60-day memorandum of understanding expires. Trump says that the U.S. will not be seeking an extension of that, and that the U.S. naval blockade is continuing to put economic pressure on the Iranian regime.President Trump welcomed 16-year-old lifeguard, Ryder Williams, who risked his life in a viral video, to save a 10-year-old boy, while being repeatedly pounded by heavy waves. Trump saying that the nation’s younger generation can look up to Williams for his professionalism, coolness and grace.

U.S. President Donald Trump on Aug. 16 ordered the Pentagon to scale back joint military exercises with South Korea. “Based on my very good relationship with Kim Jong Un, of North Korea, I am not happy with the fact that the United States has, long ago, agreed to participate in Joint Military Exercises with South Korea,” he wrote in an Aug. 16 post on Truth Social. “These exercises are not only costly, with much of these costs paid for by the United States of America (as usual!), but send a signal that is totally inappropriate and hostile, to a Country that, as long as Donald J. Trump has been President, has been unthreatening and respectful.”Democrats can’t agree on whether they want to abolish Immigration and Customs Enforcement or reform it. The Democratic National Committee (DNC) approved resolutions calling for both during its summer meeting in Austin, Texas, on Aug. 15. One resolution calls on Democratic members of Congress to develop legislation abolishing ICE while adopting immigration reforms that include pathways to citizenship and protections for workers. Democrats also approved a resolution calling for “concrete reforms” of ICE.Actress Hayden Panettiere, best known for her roles in popular television series such as “Heroes” and “Nashville,” has died at age 36. Her father, Skip Panettiere, confirmed her death in a statement to ABC News on Aug. 16. The cause of death was not disclosed.

President Trump signed a new order on Thursday that calls for a fifth U.S. Naval shipyard. The White House says it would be the first built in more than 80 years, and will expand the U.S. Navy’s shipbuilding capacity. The changes are aimed at fixing long-standing problems in the Navy’s shipbuilding. President Trump's new order also instructs the Navy to replace some of its new tech, which he says is more expensive and less effective. Those include to return to the steam-powered catapults and hydraulic weapons elevators.Secretary of War Pete Hegseth is rejecting reports of deteriorating conditions aboard the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln. The comments come after reports alleging worsening mental health, food shortages and poor living conditions aboard the carrier during its deployment. Some reports also claimed seven sailors had died in a brawl aboard the carrier. CENTCOM says those reports are false and that no service members aboard the Abraham Lincoln have died. CENTcOM adding that the strike group aboard the USS Lincoln remain resilient after more than 260 days at sea.Severe storms batter the Midwest, leaving more than 300,000 homes and businesses without power. Indiana remains the hardest-hit state, with more than 200,000 outages, followed by Illinois and Ohio. Indiana Governor Mike Braun has declared a statewide disaster emergency following severe storms, flooding, tornadoes and damaging winds. Forecasters warn another round of thunderstorms could bring damaging winds, flooding rain and more power outages across parts of the Midwest and Ohio Valley on Saturday.

Wisconsin Democrats chose Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley as their nominee for governor after a razor-thin primary upset against DSA candidate Francesca Hong. In Minnesota's Democratic Senate primary, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan defeats Congresswoman Angie Craig. Flanagan ran on a campaign to dismantle ICE, Medicare for all and a halt on sales of offensive weapons to Israel.Government funded sex changes for children have been halted. President Trump on Tuesday announcing the federal government will no longer use Medicaid funds to cover such procedures. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has also finalized a rule ending federal Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program funding for such procedures on children and young people.Kash Patel says homicides are down 17.2% across many of America's largest cities in the first half of 2026. He's crediting cooperation between the FBI, state and local law enforcement. Patel telling the Epoch Times the bureau is also targeting transnational criminal organizations that operate online scam compounds in Southeast Asia. Patel is urging Americans who believe they've been targeted by an online scam to contact the F-B-I as early as possible. He says every report can contribute to taking down a criminal network somewhere in the world.

Wisconsin Democrats chose Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley as their nominee for governor after a razor-thin primary upset against DSA candidate Francesca Hong. In Minnesota's Democratic Senate primary, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan defeats Congresswoman Angie Craig. Flanagan ran on a campaign to dismantle ICE, Medicare for all and a halt on sales of offensive weapons to Israel.Government funded sex changes for children have been halted. President Trump on Tuesday announcing the federal government will no longer use Medicaid funds to cover such procedures. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has also finalized a rule ending federal Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program funding for such procedures on children and young people.Kash Patel says homicides are down 17.2% across many of America's largest cities in the first half of 2026. He's crediting cooperation between the FBI, state and local law enforcement. Patel telling the Epoch Times the bureau is also targeting transnational criminal organizations that operate online scam compounds in Southeast Asia. Patel is urging Americans who believe they've been targeted by an online scam to contact the F-B-I as early as possible. He says every report can contribute to taking down a criminal network somewhere in the world.

President Trump is demanding compensation from Iran for Americans killed or wounded in attacks and conflicts dating back decades, as Tehran seeks compensation for damage from the current war and negotiators work toward an agreement on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump also saying Tehran should be held responsible for deaths and damage in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen and Gaza, as well as for harm done to the Iranian people themselves.Republican Senators Rand Paul and Ron Johnson on Monday released more than 34,000 text messages that Dr. Anthony Fauci sent and received on the safety of COVID-19 vaccine for pregnant women. The main focus was conversations with Dr. Vivek Murthy and Dr. Rochelle Walensky. Fauci and Walensky initially said there wasnt any data that showed pregnant women should get the vaccine, but later Fauci acknowledged that the way some people respond to the second dose ‘could be associated with miscarriage in the first trimester.’Alabama voters are casting ballots on Tuesday in special congressional primaries after four House districts were redrawn following a court battle over the state's congressional map. The marquee race is in District 2, where six Republicans are competing for a shot at unseating Democratic Congressman Shomari Figures in November. Trump-endorsed state Representative Rhett Marques is the front-runner. He's also backed by Senator Katie Britt and House Speaker Mike Johnson.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is rejecting the Board of Peace’s plan for Gaza, underscoring growing differences over how and when to implement the proposed ceasefire framework. Netanyahu says Israel is discussing the plan with the U.S., but only some of the proposals are acceptable to his government. President Trump's proposal calls for Hamas to disarm in phases, with Israeli forces withdrawing as an international stabilization force and a new Palestinian police force take over security.President Trump says the U.S. is now taking what he described as a "low-key" approach to negotiations, saying Iran's economy is under increasing strain. In a phone call to Axios, the president said the Iranian economy is in very bad shape and that Tehran no longer has enough money to pay its troops. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance tells Fox News the U.S. is looking for long-term changes from Tehran. Vance says discussions have focused on safely restoring commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.Before leaving on Saturday morning, Senators in a last minute sprint confirmed Todd Blanche as U.S. Attorney General. The razor thin vote narrowly overcoming Republican opposition in the final hour. On a bipartisan vote, senators also extended government funding through December 11th to prevent an election-time shutdown, but the House still must approve it. Senators also tried to vote on Voter ID requirements, but failed with all Democrats voting against it.

President Donald Trump is pushing back against reports that U.S. stockpiles of key munitions have been depleted from months of military operations against Iran. The president said that "we have unlimited, virtually unlimited supply" of weapons. Trump also said defense manufacturers are rapidly expanding production to replenish inventories, and acknowledged that the military is always looking to expand its stockpiles.Senate Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) is hoping to go through a number of pressing issues on Friday, in a final sprint before the August recess. Thune is putting up votes on a Russian sanctions bill, funding the government, and confirming Todd Blanche as the U.S. Attorney General. The vote on Blanche has been mired in Republican opposition for weeks. The White House secured votes from a few holdouts, but the path forward is still uncertain.Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) is heading to Tennessee's general election for governor after winning the state’s GOP primary against fellow Republicans John Rose and Monty Fritts on Thursday. She'll face Democratic nominee Jerri Green in November to succeed Gov. Bill Lee, who is term-limited. In Tennessee's newly redrawn Ninth District, Republican Brent Taylor and Democrat Justin Pearson have advanced to the general election.

Senators on Thursday morning will decide whether to hold Dr. Anthony Fauci in contempt of Congress, that’s after the fallout from his Senate appearance last week. That’s where he pleaded the 5th to avoid answering more than 100 questions. Contempt of Congress is a criminal charge that lawmakers can use if they deem someone as obstructing an ongoing investigation.Thousands of supporters went to see President Trump speak at the Red Rock Casino on Wednesday, where he spoke on the economic success for his administration, pointing to record employment numbers, and a sweeping tax relief package. The president also pointed to a dramatic victory in the war on drugs, saying fentanyl coming in by sea has been slashed by nearly 97%.President Trump weighed in on Fox News, on the latest nuclear talks with Iran, saying it is still unclear whether the latest talks will be successful. This as diplomacy with Tehran continues, alongside controversial claims over munition shortages, which Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt denied, calling the story fake news that was, "shopped to many outlets by someone clearly out to disparage the Secretary."

President Trump says Iran has contacted him about reaching a peace deal, saying the discussions have been positive so far. The president also saying a deal on the Strait of Hormuz could come as soon as Wednesday. That’s as an Indian-flagged commercial ship was sunk in the Red Sea after being struck by an explosive-laden boat off the coast of Yemen.The Democratic Senate primary in Michigan is still too close to call, with 95% of the votes counted so far. Abdul El-Sayed is narrowly leading his opponent, Representative Haley Stevens. El-Sayed has not claimed victory yet, but saying that he has performed better than expected so far. Stevens saying she was unsurprised by the close race, but insists that more time is needed to clear up her path to victory.Federal agencies say a three-day trucking crackdown, called Operation Highway Shield, has uncovered hundreds of safety violations and resulted in immigration detentions and criminal charges. Officials say inspectors carried out nearly 35-hundred enforcement stops, placing 766 unsafe drivers or vehicles out of service, and recovering nearly one-million dollars in stolen cargo. Homeland Security says more than 50 illegal immigrants were among those detained.

Tuesday’s primaries in Michigan are shaping up to be one of the most closely-watched races. Abdul El-Sayed is up again Representative Haley Stevens, which many see as an ideological race between the moderate left and the Democratic socialists. An Emerson College poll published last week shows El-Sayed leading Stevens. But Stevens leads among voters over 60 years old. Whoever wins the Democratic primary will be up against GOP presumptive nominee Mike Rogers, who says he is ready to take El Sayed head on.President Trump warning Iran it’s their last chance to sign a deal with the U.S., after calling off massive strikes over the weekend. The President saying negotiations are ongoing and slammed Iranian leadership for the gap between their private and public claims, after they openly alleged no talks are underway. Trump’s top priorities amid these talks, is that Iran cannot possess a nuclear weapon and the welfare of the Iranian people.The Senate has taken the first major step toward avoiding another government shutdown later this year. The chamber voted 89-4 to advance a bipartisan stopgap funding bill that would keep the federal government funded through December 11th. Senate leaders from both parties say the measure will give lawmakers more time to negotiate full-year spending bills while avoiding another funding lapse.

President Trump says the intervention of the United States’ Gulf allies led him to put a pause on Iranian strikes, because there was a potential deal in the works. The president saying talks are a priority, with negotiations set to begin today. Iran has not publicly commented on Trump’s remarks, with Trump declining to comment about possible U.S. troop movements out of the region.Senators on Sunday night, reached a deal to fund the government through December 11th, with a goal to avoid a shutdown during the midterm elections. The deal, approved by both Democrat and Republican leaders, would block a grant rule proposed by the Trump administration. White House officials say the rule was meant to “improve transparency, accountability, and oversight" for federal grants, but some Senators say it could lead to "politicizing grants."Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has formally rescinded the Department's $1.8-billion anti-weaponization fund. The move follows weeks of discussions with Senators who had raised concerns about the fund and delayed Blanche's nomination as Attorney General. The agreement could pave the way for Senator John Cornyn to support Blanche when the Senate Judiciary Committee votes on his nomination Tuesday.

President Trump announcing a major development on Gaza, saying the Board of Peace has reached a historic agreement for the complete disarmament of Hamas and other armed groups in the territory. The president says the deal represents critical progress toward Gaza being governed by a new Palestinian-led government working with the Board of Peace to improve conditions for residents. The agreement will be carried out in phases, beginning with an end to all military operations in Gaza, followed by the decommissioning of heavy weapons, tunnels, and weapons production sites.Republican Senators are working to cut a deal with democrats to avert an election time government shutdown. The goal is to fund the government through December 4th. Some Democrats are floating using the opportunity to force Republicans to wait until after the election to vote on President Trump’s demanded budget reconciliation package. Part of the deal in discussion, is to restrict the White House's authority to stop funding grants deemed problematic or wasteful.Spain has deployed military units to its North African enclave of Cueta after thousands of illegal immigrants crossed the border from Morocco. At least 18 people died trying to reach the Spanish territory, and a local workers association said many died from drowning, but some were also killed in a stampede at an urban beach near a border checkpoint with Morocco. Spain's prime minister says the government is mobilizing all necessary resources and working with Moroccan authorities to restore normalcy.

U.S. Central Command says it has carried out a major wave of airstrikes against targets in Iran. CENTCOM says the strikes were launched after attempted Iranian missile attacks on American forces in the Middle East. CENTCOM says more than 50,000 U.S. service members remain deployed across the Middle East and are on high alert.The Senate Judiciary Committee delayed a vote on Todd Blanches’ nomination for U.S. Attorney General that was schedule for Thursday morning. That’s after Senators Thom Tillis and John Cornyn expressed concerns are Trump’s anti-weaponization fund. Chairman Chuck Grassley said he’s working on a solution but unclear if that will come to conclusion before august recess set to start.Ukrainian officials say Russia launched one of its largest air attacks on Ukraine overnight, citing more than 70 missiles and around 280 drones, killing 8 people. Russia says it targeted military facilities, but Ukraine says residential buildings, schools and other civilian sites were hit. Poland meanwhile scrambled fighter jets after a Russian cruise missile crossed into its airspace and crashed about 55 miles inside the country.

Anthony Fauci testifies under oath before the Senate Homeland Security Committee on Wednesday, after more than 1,100 pages of his private diary have been make public. They are raising questions about how he responded to secret intelligence and whether his private assessments matched what he told the American people. Fauci has not publicly responded to the latest disclosures.In honor of the late Senator Lidnsey Graham, Senators advance a Russia and Iran sanctions bill that was championed by him. The bill aims to cut off Russia’s profit from oil and gas sales and to restrict funding for Iran. These actions also heavily impact China, with Senator Richard Blumenthal saying it’s intended to punish China and India for financing Russia’s war. A final vote on the bill is expected later this week.Residents across northeastern Wisconsin are beginning the difficult task of cleaning up after one of the state's strongest tornadoes in decades. The National Weather Service's preliminarily readings rated the tornado an EF3 with winds approaching 140 mph. The twister stayed on the ground for more than 20 minutes, carving a roughly 12-mile path from Appleton through Menasha before lifting over Lake Winnebago.

A memorial at the Capitol Rotunda and a funeral service at the Washington Cathedral will take place on Tuesday for the late Senator Lindsey Graham. On Wednesday, another tribute will take place in South Carolina, before he is laid to rest in a private ceremony in Pickens County, where Graham is from. Graham was known for his service in the Air Force and two decades in the Senate, with a reputation in foreign policy.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived in Washington, where he’s set to meet with President Trump and attend the memorial service and funeral for Senator Lindsey Graham. Trump and Zelenskyy are expected to discuss the ongoing peace process between Russia and Ukraine. Zelenskyy says his top priorities are anti-ballistic defense and strategic cooperation with the U.S.Calls are mounting on Capitol Hill for Senators to skip the August recess to hold a prolonged debate on the SAVE America Act. President Trump on Monday doubling down on the need to pass the act, which would require proof of citizenship to register to vote and voter ID at the polls. Republicans are currently working on a party line approach to approve some elements of the SAVE America Act through a grant program, which would incentivize states to adopt proof of citizenship and voter ID.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is heading to Washington on Monday, where he’s set to meet with President Trump on Tuesday. Among the issues the two will discuss include the Iran War. Before that meeting with President Trump, Netanyahu will also attend the funeral services for Senator Lindsey Graham.Three people are dead and four others injured after a shooting at Seattle's annual Bite of Seattle food festival. Police say one suspect is in custody while investigators search for a second gunman. Two people died at the scene, while a third later died at a hospital. The annual Bite of Seattle festival has been held since 19-2 and attracts about 350,000 attendees over three days.Senators are continuing work on the 2027 fiscal year budget, with Senate Leader John Thune facing renewed pressure to take up the House passed budget resolution, which includes elements of the SAVE America Act. Thune insists there’s not enough support to pass the SAVE America Act in the Senate, and says he won’t immediately take up the party line bill unless funding negotiations with Democrats fall through.

Maine Democrats selected former state Senate President Troy Jackson on Saturday as their party’s nominee to challenge incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins. Jackson replaced Graham Platner as the Democratic nominee at the Maine Democrats’ convention in Bangor.A grand jury indicted Democratic Hawaii Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke in a corruption investigation. Luke is one of five charged in this investigation carried out by state Attorney General Anne Lopez.More Breaking News, Special Reports, and Live Coverage on NTD: https://ept.ms/NTD_LIVE

The United States and Saudi Arabia have signed a landmark nuclear cooperation agreement on Wednesday, opening the door for the Gulf kingdom to develop a civilian nuclear program. The deal provides a legal framework for long-term co-operation on nuclear technology and safety. The agreement could allow U.S. companies to play a major role in building Saudi Arabia’s nuclear infrastructure, including a potential uranium enrichment facility. The agreement will now be sent to Congress for review.U.S. Central Command says U.S. forces carried out another round of strikes against Iran for the twelfth consecutive night. The command says Iran does not control the strategic waterway and that it remains open to commercial shipping despite threats and attacks by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. CENTCOM adds that commercial vessels continue to transit the strait with U.S. military support.President Trump took his political message to Georgia during a campaign, warning about the dangers of communism. The president urging Republicans come out and vote in the midterm elections in November. The president also highlighting what his administration has done in the last year and a half, including Trump Accounts program, which he says more than 7 million children are already signed up.

The United States and Saudi Arabia have signed a landmark nuclear cooperation agreement on Wednesday, opening the door for the Gulf kingdom to develop a civilian nuclear program. The deal provides a legal framework for long-term co-operation on nuclear technology and safety. The agreement could allow U.S. companies to play a major role in building Saudi Arabia’s nuclear infrastructure, including a potential uranium enrichment facility. The agreement will now be sent to Congress for review.U.S. Central Command says U.S. forces carried out another round of strikes against Iran for the twelfth consecutive night. The command says Iran does not control the strategic waterway and that it remains open to commercial shipping despite threats and attacks by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. CENTCOM adds that commercial vessels continue to transit the strait with U.S. military support.President Trump took his political message to Georgia during a campaign, warning about the dangers of communism. The president urging Republicans come out and vote in the midterm elections in November. The president also highlighting what his administration has done in the last year and a half, including Trump Accounts program, which he says more than 7 million children are already signed up.

Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Arizona) won the Republican nomination to challenge Arizona’s Gov. Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, in November. The race was called early in the night, after he took more than 70 percent of the vote. Biggs was the candidate whom President Donald Trump endorsed early on. The president also posted photos touting several of the candidates he endorsed in Arizona who won their primaries.Secretary of State Marco Rubio met on Wednesday with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the sidelines of a gathering of ASEAN ministers in the Philippines. The two discussed a possible U.S. summit between Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping in September. This was the highest-level contact between the United States and the Chinese regime since Trump's trip to Beijing in May.A third American service member, Sergeant Michael Swinton of North Carolina, has been identified after a controlled detonation of an Iranian drone at an air base in the Middle East. The Pentagon also says that Sergeant Angel Rampersad of New York disappeared during last week’s attack at an air base in Jordan and is currently believed to be dead. Trump is expected to attend the dignified transfer of two other soldiers killed in Jordan at Dover Air Force Base on Wednesday.

Senator Darline Graham announced that she will be running for Lindsey Graham’s Senate seat in November, after being appointed last week to serve out the remainder of his term. A special primary will take place on August 11th to determine who will hold the seat for the upcoming 6-year term. President Trump said that Graham has his ‘complete and total endorsement.’The War Department identified the two killed in Jordan as 25-year old 1st Lieutenant Tyler Feehan of Hawaii and 19-year old Private Isabella Gonzales of Texas. The White House says President Trump will attend the dignified transfer of the U.S. service members at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware.President Trump is putting new tariffs on Canada, signing three proclamations imposing new 50% tariffs on a range of Canadian products, including dairy, alcohol, auto-related goods, cement and even hockey sticks. The White House saying President Trump is taking action to hold Canada accountable for its unequal treatment of U.S. commerce.

This year marks the 27th anniversary of the deadly persecution of the meditation practice Falun Dafa, also known as Falun Gong. To raise awareness of another year of human rights violations by the Chinese Communist Party, Falun Gong practitioners and human rights advocates are holding parades and rallies around the world, including in the nation’s capital this week.U.S. Central Command says another wave of airstrikes was launched against Iran on Sunday, targeting command centers, missile and drone launch sites and military communications networks. According to CENTCOM, one American service member was killed in Iraq on Saturday, and two other service members died in Jordan, while a third remains missing following an Iranian attack on Friday.Spain is back on top of the soccer world. After a hundred tense minutes at the packed New York-New Jersey Stadium, substitute Ferran Torres buried the biggest goal of his career. An extra-time strike that gave Spain a 1-0 victory over Argentina, and the nation's second World Cup title. Coach Luis de la Fuente says his young squad is already looking ahead to defending its title and the 20-0 World Cup. Spain will co-host that tournament, alongside Portugal and Morocco.

President Trump announced on Thursday night the release of previously classified U.S. intelligence community assessments show the mass compromise of U.S. voter data by the Chinese Communist Party. The White House released those documents covering five major areas of concern. One area of concern that President Trump raised there was the acquisition by the Chinese regime of 220 million U.S. voter files, which includes the names, the addresses, the phone numbers, party preferences, and other registration-relevant data. President Trump describing that as the largest election data compromise in history.Officials in several U.S. cities are urging people to stay indoors as smoke from hundreds of wildfires in Canada continues to blanket the U.S. from the upper midwest to the northeast. Detroit, Minneapolis and Chicago on Thursday ranking among the world's most polluted major cities because of the smoke. Forecasters say the thickest smoke is expected through Saturday, with gradual improvement possible by the end of the weekend if the wind shifts and rain arrives.U.S. forces have carried out a sixth consecutive night of strikes targeting Iranian military sites, including air defense systems, logistics infrastructure and maritime capabilities. CENTCOM says the strikes are aimed at further degrading Iran's military capabilities and responding to recent attacks on commercial shipping. U.S. Marines also boarded a commercial tanker in the Gulf of Oman as part of the ongoing naval blockade against Iran.

Skies are turning hazy across the Northeast and Midwest as smoke from hundreds of Canadian wildfires create hazardous conditions and hazy skies. Health officials say wildfire smoke contains fine particles that can be especially dangerous for children, older adults, and people with heart or lung conditions. But forecasters say rain later this week should help improve air quality in parts of the Midwest and Northeast.An American citizen held captive in Iran since 2024 is now free. The wrongfully detained woman has been released and is safely out of the country. American forces also on Wednesday night hitting Iranian command centers, air defense systems, missile and drone capabilities, and coastal surveillance facilities, targeting Iran’s ability to threaten commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.The World Cup final is now set, after Argentina took down England 2-1 after their semi-final match together. Argentina will meet with Spain in the finals on Sunday. The two countries have close ties when it comes to soccer. Seven players on Argentina's squad currently play for clubs in Spain's top division. Lionel Messi enters the final leading the tournament's Golden Boot race, with eight goals and four assists.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche is facing a key confirmation hearing in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday. Blanche has served as acting AG since April after President Trump fired Pam Bondi. He’s expected to face questions concerning the Epstein files and Trump’s Anti-Weaponization Fund.U.S. Central Command says it completed another wave of strikes against Iran this morning, as President Trump issues a renewed threat to Iran to return to the negotiating table. The U.S. also resumed a naval blockade targeting vessels traveling to and from Iranian ports and coastal areas. President Trump also saying he changed his mind about charging countries a security fee to reimburse U.S. military costs in the Strait of Hormuz.ICE is temporarily suspending most vehicle stops nationwide while officials review recent enforcement incidents. Border Czar Tom Homan says the pause will not reduce immigration arrests. President Trump posting on Truth Social praising ICE saying that ‘they are doing a great job’ and that ‘crime is way down in America, in many cases with numbers that haven’t been seen in decades.’

The U.S. carried out a third night of strikes against Iran overnight, with officials saying the mission is aimed at degrading Iran’s ability to attack civilians in the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump writing on Truth Social that The United States will be known as ‘the Guardian of the Hormuz Strait,’ and be reimbursed at the rate of 20% on all cargo shipped, for providing safety and security. The latest strikes mark an escalation after the U.S. and Iran agreed to end hostilities, reopen the strait, and start nuclear negotiations.Lawmakers are back in Washington this week and Republican leaders in the House are trying again to move to pass the election integrity bill known as the SAVE America Act by attaching it to the National Defense Authorization Act. Lawmakers did this back in June but failed with 14 lawmakers opposing the rule. Senators can also strip the act out before passage so it would still require enough votes to pass.A 67-year-old Mississippi man identified as Wendell J. Royster, is facing charges after Capitol Police say he drove to a security barricade near the Capitol with a handgun on his lap. Authorities say he approached the barricade in a rented Ford Bronco and asked an officer for directions to the Supreme Court, which is when an officer noticed the firearm on his lap. A team of Capitol Police officers surrounded the vehicle and took him into custody without incident. Royster is charged with carrying a pistol without a license or permit.

The White House lowered its flags to half staff to honor the life of Senator Lindsey Graham after he died at the age of 71. President Trump described the Senator as a ’true American patriot’ and ‘one of the greatest people and Senators’ that he has ever known. A medical examiner released preliminary finding that Graham suffered from an aortic dissection. South Carolina will hold a special primary to elect a new Republican nominee in the race for his seat.U.S. Central Command says it has completed another wave of strikes against Iran, hitting dozens of targets in multiple locations. The operation involved U.S. fighter aircraft, naval vessels, and one-way attack drones. Iran has claimed it closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to U.S. strikes, but CENTCOM rejected that claim, saying the key waterway remains open and commercial traffic is continuing. Iraq's prime minister is visiting Washington on Monday to strengthen ties with the United States, with expected oil and gas agreements aimed at boosting investment and production.The World Cup semifinals are set, with France, Spain, Argentina, and England just one win away from the final. France and Spain will meet on Tuesday in Dallas, while defending champion Argentina takes on England on Wednesday in Atlanta. The winners of the two semifinals will meet in the World Cup Final next on July 19th at the New York New Jersey Stadium.

The quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup are underway, with Belgium taking on Spain on Friday, hoping to join France in the semi-finals after France beat Morocco 2–0 on Thursday. On Saturday, Norway will face England, with Norway in the quarter-finals for the first time. Argentina will also face Switzerland on Saturday in Kansas City, with Switzerland in the quarter-finals for the first time since 1954.U.S. Central Command says its forces hit approximately 90 Iranian military targets on July 8, including air defense systems, coastal surveillance sites, missile and drone storage facilities, naval capabilities, and military logistics infrastructure along Iran’s coastline. The U.S. Embassy in Jordan on July 9 warned people to take shelter after reports of missiles, rockets, and drones entering Jordanian airspace.Eight men have now been indicted in an alleged plot to attack the White House's UFC Freedom 250 event last month. Authorities say the eighth suspect, Chandler Scaggs of West Virginia, was arrested this week and was allegedly assigned as one of the snipers. Federal prosecutors say the suspects conspired to provide material support to terrorists and to murder federal officials.

U.S. forces have carried out another round of strikes against Iran, targeting military sites along the country’s coastline. U.S. Central Command said Monday’s operation was aimed at reducing Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. CENTCOM says it struck about 90 Iranian military targets, including air defense systems, missiles and drone storage sites, naval assets and logistics infrastructure. CENTCOM says more than 20 U.S. Navy warships are now patrolling waters across the Middle East, and that U.S. forces remain ready to conduct additional operations if ordered.Graham Platner, the Senate candidate and self-described progressive from Maine, has dropped out of the race for one of Maine’s Senate seats. It comes after mounting calls from within his own party, following a sexual assault allegation. In the state’s primary last month, Platner was contending with Janet Mills, who won 41,000 votes compared to his 156,000 votes. Maine is a top target for one of the four seats Democrats need to gain to take control of the upper chamber. His replacement will be up against long-time Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine), who’s held her seat since 1996.Bonnie Tyler, the three-time Grammy-nominated Welsh pop star, has died at the age of 75. A statement from her family says she died in a hospital in Portugal, where she was being treated for an illness. Tyler was known for her iconic gravelly tone, which helped her send her song "Total Eclipse of the Heart" to the top of the charts. Some of her other famous releases include "Holding Out for a Hero," "It’s a Heartache," and "Lost in France." She represented Britain in the 2013 Eurovision Song contest, and was appointed a member of the Order of the British Empire in 2022 for her contributions to music.

President Trump announced on Wednesday at the NATO summit in Turkey that, in his view, the ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran is over. The president’s comments come after the U.S. military carried out a new round of strikes against Iran, following attacks by Iranian forces on commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump called negotiations with Iran a waste of time, accusing the Islamic Republic of repeatedly failing to honor its commitments.A scare in midtown Manhattan appears to be over, after emergency crews say that a high-rise under construction is now stable after structural damage prompted evacuations. The emergency began on Tuesday morning after workers discovered buckled structural columns and sagging floors inside the building. Several nearby buildings were evacuated as a precaution, while engineers assessed the damage. Investigators are still working to determine what caused the columns to buckle, and officials say repairs will continue in the coming days.The World Cup quarterfinals are set, as the 8 teams are set to begin battling it out starting on Thursday. Argentina advanced on Tuesday after a thrilling victory against Egypt in Atlanta. Switzerland also punched its ticket to the quarterfinals for the first time since 1954, defeating Colombia in a penalty shootout.

President Trump arriving in Ankara, Turkey on Tuesday for a high-stakes NATO summit. Senior administration officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, are traveling with the president. He will also meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Leaders from NATO's 32 member states are expected to review progress on defense spending commitments and burden-sharing goals.Democratic leaders are calling for Graham Platner to exit the race after an allegation of sexual assault. Platner is the embattled Democratic nominee facing incumbent Senator Susan Collins. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand are now asking him to step down. Maine's Democratic Party leadership is also calling on Platner to withdraw, and the Senate Majority PAC announced it is redirecting resources away from the race. The deadline for candidates to drop out with time for the party to replace a nominee is July 13th.Severe thunderstorms across parts of the United States have knocked out power for hundreds of thousands of customers. More than 373,000 homes and businesses were without electricity on Monday as strong winds, heavy rain, and storm damage affected several regions. Pennsylvania was among the hardest-hit states, with more than 50,000 outages reported. Utility crews continue repairs as some areas recover from the severe weather.

Team USA’s Folarin Balogun will be available to play in today’s Round of 16 game against Belgium after his red card was suspended. President Donald Trump reacted to the decision on Truth Social, thanking FIFA for ‘reversing a great injustice.’ Belgium's soccer federation has criticized the ruling, saying it is exploring its options to "safeguard the legitimate rights of all participating teams and to protect the fundamental principles of fair play."Trump is set to travel to the Turkish capital, Ankara, for a key meeting with NATO allies. He is expected to meet with Turkish President Recep Erdogan separately ahead of that meeting. Trump is also scheduled to hold separate meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa before wrapping up the summit with a news conference. A major focus of the summit will be whether NATO allies are making progress toward higher defense spending commitments.A small seaplane was seen making a hard landing into New York’s East River on Sunday afternoon. New York City Fire Department officials say at least eight people were removed from the plane; two of whom were evaluated for minor injuries. The FAA said it will launch an investigation into why the plane had to make an emergency landing. The agency says the hard landing caused a wing strut to snap. The aircraft was later towed to a dock.

Cities across the U.S. gears up to celebrate its 250th birthday, as well as countries beyond U.S. borders. The State Department inviting landmarks, monuments, and historic sites across the globe to shine in red, white, and blue. In South Korea, the National Museum of Korean History's LED screens showcasing America's story through next week. In Japan, Tokyo Tower, Rainbow Bridge and the Tokyo Aqua Symphony all lighting up in the colors of the American flag.A dangerous heat wave is expected to continue through the 4th of July weekend, with the National Weather Service warning of widespread extreme heat risk across the eastern half of the country. Forecasters say temperatures could reach as high as 100 degrees, combined with the humidity, may make the air feel as high as 115 degrees. Officials are urging people to stay hydrated, limit time outdoors, seek air conditioning whenever possible, and never leave children or pets inside unattended vehicles.NATO leaders are set to meet in Ankara next week with defense spending, Ukraine and transatlantic unity at the top of the agenda. Secretary General Mark Rutte says allies are expected to announce tens of billions of dollars in new defense contracts. NATO officials say one of their top priorities is keeping the U.S. committed to the alliance's mutual defense pact.

The U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team is heading to the round of 16 after a dramatic 2–0 victory against Bosnia and Herzegovina. This is their first knockout round victory since 2002. Folarin Balogun opened the scoring before being sent off with a red card. Despite the disadvantage, Malik Tillman sealed the victory with a free kick in the 82nd minute. Team USA will now face Belgium in Seattle on July 6th for a place in the World Cup quarterfinals.New York City is preparing for one of its busiest Fourth of July weekends in years under dangerous heat and heightened security. The challenges come as a major heat wave expands across much of the country. Thousands are expected to converge on the city for the nation's 250th anniversary, the 50th anniversary of the Macy’s Fourth of July fireworks, and a big World Cup match between Brazil and Norway.Mediators from Qatar and Pakistan say separate meetings with U.S. and Iranian negotiators have delivered positive progress. The discussions are set to continue after funeral observances for Iran’s former leader. Under the interim peace deal, the parties agreed on steps to reduce hostilities, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and advance future technical discussions on Iran’s nuclear program. The talks build on a ceasefire earlier this year and follow the Lake Lucerne Summit held in Switzerland in June.

Summer officially started less than two weeks ago, but large portions of the country are already under a dangerous record-breaking heat wave. Officials in some cities are reminding people to check in on their neighbors, as high temperatures can be much more than just uncomfortable. Meanwhile Secretary of Energy Chris Wright has issued emergency orders aimed at preventing power outages as the extreme heat drives up electricity demand. The emergency measures allow additional power generation and backup resources to be used if needed through Friday.The Supreme Court upheld birthright citizenship on Tuesday, ruling that all children born in the U.S. are citizens. This strikes down President Trump’s executive order that denied automatic U.S. citizenship to children born to parents who were in the country illegally or on temporary visas, saying that it violated the 14th Amendment.. Congress has the power to rewrite the 14th Amendment to limit who is granted automatic citizenship, but would require a two-thirds vote in the House and the Senate.The American West is taking center stage on the National Mall as part of the nation's 250th birthday celebration. From bucking broncos to trick riders, organizers say Rodeo 250 is more than just entertainment, it's about telling the story of the American cowboy and the values that helped shape the country. Visitors praised the idea of bringing the traditions of the American West to the nation's capital, with Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins saying American wasn’t build in boardrooms, it was built from horseback.

President Trump says U.S. negotiators are heading to Qatar for talks, while repeating that the denuclearization of Iran is a priority. The President is sending his son-in-law Jared Kushner and envoy Steve Witkoff to lead the negotiating team in Doha. Iran, however, says no talks with the U.S. are currently scheduled, underscoring the fragility of the June 17th interim peace agreement.The Supreme Court is set to issue its final rulings of the term on Tuesday. The justices will decide whether President Trump’s restrictions on birthright citizenship can stand under the 14th Amendment. The court will also rule on state bans limiting transgender athletes in girls’ and women’s school sports. In another case, the justices will rule on limits to how much money political candidates can spend in coordination with their parties.Four time world champion Germany was knocked out on penalties on Monday by underdog Paraguay. The South American nation held out in a 1-all in regulation and extra time. This defeat also marks the first time Germany lost a penalty shootout in 50 years. Meanwhile, African champion Morocco also knocking out the Netherlands on penalties and Brazil defeating Japan 2-1. Team USA will be back in action on Wednesday, playing Bosnia and Herzegovina in California.

The U.S. and Iran agreed to cease attacks over the control of the Strait of Hormuz, as a fragile ceasefire gets tested. President Trump posting on Truth Social on Monday, sayign that Iran has requested a meeting with the U.S. which is set to take place on Tuesday in Doha. U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz also warning Iran that President Trump's ‘patience isn't going to last forever.’House Speaker Mike Johnson says he's sending a bipartisan housing affordability bill to President Trump on Monday. Speaker Johnson said he’s spoken to the President and expects him to sign the measure into law. The legislation passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, clearing the Senate 85-5 and the House 358-32. The bill combines more than 60 proposals aimed at expanding affordable housing, increasing mortgage access and reducing regulatory barriers.Canada opening the World Cup knockout stage with a 1-0 victory over South Africa on Sunday, becoming the first nation to advance to the round of 16, with a dramatic late goal from midfielder Stephen Eustáquio. The game marked Canada's first-ever trip beyond the World Cup group stage. The remaining Round of 32 matches begin this week, with Brazil taking on Japan, Germany facing Paraguay, and the Netherlands meeting Morocco. Team USA returns to action on Wednesday in Santa Clara, California, to take on Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The death toll is climbing in Venezuela after two powerful earthquakes devastated the northern areas of the country. Officials have confirmed at least 235 deaths, with fears that that number will continue to rise. The U.S. is now mobilizing search-and-rescue teams and humanitarian aid as emergency crews race to find survivors. The Department of War is providing aircraft, logistics and personnel to help move rescue teams and supplies into the affected areas.President Trump says he’s working to strengthen America’s food supply, after signing an executive order at expanding regenerative agriculture practices. The order directs federal agencies to expand regenerative farming programs, advance research and build partnerships to help farmers adopt new practices. The President said he's also asked Congress for billions in supplemental relief payments for farmers.Following a military funding request from the White House, Republicans are gearing up a third party line package. The package will be largely focused on replenishing weapons stockpiles and increasing funding for the military. In addition to providing supplemental funding, House Speaker Mike Johnson is also trying to use this as a way to pass the SAVE America Act, but that idea has garnered pushback from House conservatives.

Powerful back-to-back earthquakes struck Venezuela on Wednesday night, collapsing buildings and killing at least 164. The 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes rattled much of the region, with tremors felt as far away as Brazil’s Amazon, a thousand miles away from Caracas. President Delcy Rodríguez urged the population to remain calm, and asked health care professionals to report to hospitals to assist the injured.President Trump said on Wednesday that he has instructed the Department of Justice to immediately probe oil companies for not lowering gas prices in line with the falling costs, accusing them of price ‘gouging.’ The falling price of gas follows an agreement between the U.S. and Iran to continue the flow of traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.President Trump is asking Congress for a supplemental funding package meant to help fund military operations, humanitarian needs and support U.S. farmers. The $88 billion package is likely to a party-line package and would in addition to the annual defense appropriations that Congress is working on right now. The largest part of the pacakge is $67 billion for the Department of War for expenses related to the operations in Iran.

All three candidates backed by New York City Zohran Mamdani won their House primary races on Tuesday, signaling a major shift to the left in New York’s Democratic Party. Meanwhile, Trump-backed Anthony Constantino won the Republican primary to replace Congresswoman Elise Stefanik in New York and is expected to win the heavily Republican district in November. In the New York governor’s race, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman will face Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul in November. President Trump has endorsed Blakeman, calling him “MAGA all the way.”President Trump is saying that oil prices are dropping, while accusing energy companies of keeping gas prices artificially high. Crude oil prices have fallen sharply following the Iran ceasefire. Meanwhile on the deal with Iran, President Trump said Iran had ‘fully and completely agreed’ to the highest level of nuclear inspections going forward. Iran says no inspection visit has been scheduled for nuclear sites struck by the United States.President Trump made a visit to Pennsylvania on Monday, to spotlight American manufacturing during a visit to Mack Trucks facility. The president thanked the workers and saying American manufacturing is experiencing a renewed growth under his administration, and highlighted his tariffs as helping domestic manufacturers compete against foreign producers. Mack Trucks says it has invested more than $400 million in upgrades and expansions at the Pennsylvania operation over the past decade.

Voters are heading to the polls on Tuesday in New York, Maryland, Utah and South Carolina. Congressional seats and governors' races are in play, as well as a popularity test for Democratic Socialist Mayor Zohran Mamdani. He has endorsed several candidates in House races, including New York City Comptroller Brad Lander in the 10th district and Darializa Avila Chevalier in the 13th district.President Trump on Tuesday morning, posting on Truth Social saying that Iran has agreed to what he called ‘the highest level of nuclear inspections indefinitely,’ adding that without those commitments, there would be no further talks. The President also saying that the U.S. will keep the Strait of Hormuz open and has suspended plans for a naval blockade, while maintaining forces in the region if needed.The U.S. Supreme Court is entering the final stretch of its term, with major rulings expected on immigration, presidential authority, elections, gun rights, and transgender athletes. At the top of the list is President Trump's executive order restricting birthright citizenship for children born to illegal immigrants and some temporary visitors. The justices are weighing whether the Constitution's 14th Amendment guarantees citizenship in those cases.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance was in Lucerne, Switzerland on Monday giving an update on negotiations with Iran. He said that ‘a lot of good progress’ has been made and that a ‘very good foundation’ has been set for a successful final deal. Vance said that four key points have been made, including establishing a mechanism for keeping the Hormuz Strait open, coordinating a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, an agreement on IAEA inspections, and a process for technical negotiations.British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced he is stepping down, less than two years after he led the Labour Party to a landslide election victory. Starmer says the nomination process will begin on July 9th and a new leader will be chosen before Parliament returns in September. Andy Burnham is considered the frontrunner to replace Starmer, after recently winning a Parliament seat in a special election that boosted his standing within the party.Lawmakers are heading back to Washington, D.C. on Monday, to tackle issues like election integrity, affordable housing, and leadership in the intelligence community. The affordable housing bill, is backed by both Democrats and Republicans, and is expected to pass the House this week, after passing the Senate last week.

Vice President JD Vance’s trip to Switzerland to meet with Iranian negotiators has been postponed. This comes as Israel carries out retaliation strikes in Lebanon, saying it targeted Hezbollah operatives and infrastructure. Israel says four soldiers were killed in the fighting and accused Hezbollah of repeated ceasefire violations. The U.S. military has also begun lifting its naval blockade of Iran, with Vice President Vance saying Central Command has allowed over a dozen ships through so far.President Trump awarded the Medal of Honor to three service members during a White House ceremony on Thursday. The President honored retired Marine Major James Capers Jr., Army Major Nicholas Dockery, and Marine Colonel John Ripley. The medal recognizes service members who performed acts of extraordinary heroism in combat. President Trump saying the nation owes its freedom to service members willing to face extraordinary danger in defense of the country.During the FIFA World Cup on Thursday, host country Canada defeated Qatar 6-0 in Vancouver, the country’s first ever victory in a World Cup game. In Los Angeles, Switzerland scored 4 late goals to defeat Bosnia and Herzegovina 4-1. Meanwhile, Mexican and South Korean supporters gathered together in Guadalajara ahead of their Group A showdown, with Mexico taking home the win with a score of 1-0. Team USA will be facing Australia on Friday in Seattle.

The United States and Iran have signed a memorandum of understanding to end the nearly four-month-long war, and it is now in effect. The agreement calls for an "immediate and permanent" end to hostilities between the two nations. The two sides will enter a 60-day negotiation period aimed at reaching a final peace deal and determining the future of Iran’s nuclear program. The agreement also says Iran will reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restore commercial traffic through the key waterway without tolls during the 60-day period.Senators on Capitol Hill are working to hold Chinese Communist Party officials accountable for forcibly harvesting organs from prisoners of conscience. A committee on Wednesday advanced a bipartisan bill to sanction these perpetrators. They would be sanctioned, blocked from transacting with any U.S. person or entity, and have their U.S. properties frozen. Lawmakers are also calling for an official investigation to determine the scale and scope of the inhumane practice.Five men were arrested in connection with an alleged plot targeting the White House UFC Freedom 250 event. The suspects will likely be prosecuted outside Washington. Federal authorities say the group planned to use explosive-laden drones to trigger a mass evacuation before opening fire on fleeing attendees. The five suspects have already made initial court appearances and are scheduled to return to federal court on Thursday.