Iranian forces have seized two ships in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions as the United States and Iran maintain separate blockades of the critical waterway. The standoff, through which about 20% of the world's oil and liquefied fossil gas once passed, has cast doubt on the resumption of stalled peace negotiations.
Iran's Stance on the Strait
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, speaker of the Iranian parliament and lead negotiator, stated late Wednesday that reopening the Strait of Hormuz would be "impossible" while the US and Israel commit "flagrant" ceasefire breaches. He cited the US naval blockade, "the hostage-taking of the world's economy," and "Zionist warmongering" as key obstacles.
US Response
President Donald Trump announced an extension of the ceasefire with Iran, contingent on Tehran presenting a "unified proposal" to US negotiating positions, citing Iran's "seriously fractured" government. He had previously threatened to renew bombing. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump was "satisfied" with the naval blockade and "understands Iran is in a very weak position." This is a developing story.
California Governor Debate Heats Up
Six candidates vying to become California's next governor sparred in the first debate since the race was upended by the sudden collapse of former congressman Eric Swalwell's campaign amid sexual assault allegations. With no clear frontrunner, nearly a quarter of voters remain undecided ahead of the June 2 primary. The debate highlighted sharp contrasts on cost of living, housing affordability, homelessness, and artificial intelligence, but did little to settle the race.
Participants
The debate, hosted by Nexstar Media Group, featured two Republicans—Steve Hilton, former Fox News host and UK prime minister David Cameron's strategy director, and Chad Bianco, Riverside County sheriff—and four leading Democrats: billionaire Tom Steyer, former health secretary Xavier Becerra, former congresswoman Katie Porter, and San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan.
Pentagon Announces Navy Secretary Departure
The Pentagon announced Wednesday that Navy Secretary John Phelan is leaving his post, effective immediately. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell stated that Hung Cao, Navy undersecretary, will serve as acting secretary. Sources familiar with the situation told the Guardian that Phelan was fired due to a rocky relationship with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who reportedly blamed Phelan for not aggressively targeting Senator Mark Kelly over a video advising troops to ignore "illegal orders."
Other News
- A Virginia court paused new congressional maps approved by voters, ruling the referendum invalid. Democrats plan to appeal, as the maps are part of a Republican-led redistricting struggle ahead of midterms.
- The EU risks confrontation with Donald Trump after seeking to stall a Balkans pipeline contract to a company fronted by his personal lawyer, documents show.
- South Korea's air force apologized for a 2021 mid-air collision involving two fighter jets after auditors found pilots were taking selfies and filming during the flight.
Stat of the Day
The number of billionaires globally could reach nearly 4,000 by 2031, a 25% increase from the current 3,110, according to Knight Frank. The super-rich are accumulating wealth at an accelerating rate.
Recommendations
In a new book, New York Times investigative journalist Jodi Kantor helps young people find their life's work. Meanwhile, Lauren Gould of the Filter US shares professional tips for cleaning bathrooms effectively.
Climate Check
The UN warns that extreme heat is pushing world food systems "to the brink," with farmers unable to work, livestock stressed, and crop yields falling, endangering over a billion livelihoods.
Last Thing
A tourist was charged after climbing Florence's Neptune fountain for a pre-wedding prank, causing thousands of euros in damage. The 28-year-old told police her friends dared her to touch Neptune's genitals.
