The United States and Iran exchanged fire late Thursday in the most serious challenge yet to their month-old ceasefire. Tehran accused Washington of violating the truce by targeting two ships in the Strait of Hormuz and attacking civilian areas, while the US said it acted in retaliation.
Trump Defends Ceasefire
Donald Trump told reporters in Washington that the ceasefire remains intact despite the strikes. When asked about prospects for a negotiated end to the war, the president was vague, stating a deal "might not happen, but it could happen any day." He added, "I believe they want the deal more than I do."
Negotiations Before the Strikes
Reports indicated the two sides might be nearing an agreement to halt the war, with a one-page memorandum shared between Washington and Tehran via Pakistan. However, the recent skirmishes have cast doubt on progress. Meanwhile, Trump's "Project Freedom"—a plan to guide tankers through the Strait of Hormuz—was abandoned days after launch, reportedly because Saudi Arabia refused to allow US use of its bases and airspace.
Tennessee Redistricting Controversy
Tennessee's Republican-dominated legislature passed redistricting maps that dismantle the state's sole Democratic, Black-majority congressional district. The ninth district, covering Memphis, was split into three parts, each containing a third of the city's Black voters. This move, following the Supreme Court's invalidation of a key Voting Rights Act section, ensures all nine Tennessee districts now lean Republican.
Passport Revocations for Child Support Debt
The US State Department will begin revoking passports of parents owing $100,000 or more in child support, affecting about 2,700 American passport holders. The threshold will later drop to over $2,500, impacting many more. Previously, the penalty only applied when debtors sought passport renewals.
Other Notable News
Authorities worldwide are searching for passengers from a cruise ship linked to a deadly hantavirus outbreak, though the WHO says it is not a pandemic. In UK local elections, Labour lost hundreds of seats while Reform UK gained ground. Two former Chinese defense ministers received suspended death sentences for corruption. A US trade court ruled against Trump's latest 10% global tariffs, deeming them unjustified.
Stat of the Day
A German tourist was awarded over $1,000 after failing to secure sunloungers during a Greek vacation costing more than $8,000. Despite waking early daily, he could never find a free recliner.
Culture and Climate
As David Attenborough turns 100, his most spectacular TV moments are celebrated. Keith Haring's best friend recalls the artist painting a crib for his baby. Experts warn that Trump's Iran war may boost oil profits and hinder climate progress, as corporations pocket huge gains.
Last Thing
South Korea's Jogyesa temple has introduced a robot monk named Gabi to engage dwindling Buddhist followers. Venerable Sungwon noted, "Robots are entering our lives so quickly, and people feel familiar with them."
