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U.S. gas prices surge to $4.39 as Iran conflict drives sharpest spike since ceasefire

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Gasoline prices across the United States have climbed to a new high during the ongoing Iran conflict, with the national average reaching $4.39 per gallon in the largest single-day increase since a ceasefire was announced in early April.

Data released Friday shows prices jumped sharply overnight, rising a combined 16 cents in just over 24 hours. The spike marks the steepest daily increase since early March and underscores mounting pressure on consumers as energy markets remain volatile.

Since hostilities began, the average cost of regular unleaded fuel has surged more than 47%, reflecting the broader impact of disruptions to global oil supply chains.

Crude oil prices have also continued their upward trajectory. U.S. benchmark crude settled near $102 per barrel at the end of the week, while Brent crude — the international standard — closed at approximately $108 per barrel, representing gains of roughly 80% since the start of the conflict.

The latest price surge follows comments from Donald Trump, who indicated that the United States intends to maintain its naval blockade on Iranian oil exports. The blockade, enforced since mid-April, is designed to restrict Tehran’s ability to generate revenue from energy sales.

Speaking at the White House, Trump argued that the strategy is placing significant economic pressure on Iran and could hasten an end to the conflict. He also suggested that fuel prices would fall quickly once hostilities cease.

Market analysts, however, have expressed skepticism about a rapid decline. Many point to ongoing risks surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime corridor through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes. Iran has demonstrated its ability to disrupt shipping in the region, raising concerns that supply constraints could persist even after a ceasefire.

Financial institutions have issued increasingly stark forecasts. Analysts at Citigroup warned that Brent crude prices could climb as high as $150 per barrel if the strait remains restricted through the end of June. Such a scenario would likely push gasoline prices even higher, intensifying inflationary pressures across the global economy.

Energy companies are also signaling strain within the sector. Mike Wirth said supply disruptions could force a reduction in demand across multiple industries if conditions do not improve. Meanwhile, Darren Woods indicated that a portion of his company’s oil production has already been affected by the conflict.

Even if shipping routes reopen, industry leaders caution that recovery will take time. Woods noted it could take up to two months for oil flows to normalize, followed by additional delays before fuel reaches consumers.

The surge in prices comes amid political debate in Washington over the status of the conflict. Some administration officials have suggested that active hostilities have effectively ended, while members of Congress are considering whether to invoke the War Powers Resolution, which requires legislative approval for extended military engagements.

House Speaker Mike Johnson has argued that congressional intervention is unnecessary, maintaining that the United States is not formally at war. However, financial markets appear unconvinced, with oil prices continuing to climb in response to ongoing uncertainty.

Public reaction has grown increasingly vocal as fuel costs rise. Online forums and regional communities have seen a surge in complaints from drivers facing steep increases at the pump, particularly in states where prices have jumped dramatically since the conflict began.

Analysts at the energy research firm Kpler have also raised questions about the effectiveness of the U.S. blockade in the short term. Because of delays in shipping and payment cycles, the impact on Iran’s oil revenue may not be fully realized for several months. This lag could limit the immediate economic pressure on Tehran, potentially prolonging the standoff.

The sharp rise in gasoline prices highlights the fragile balance between geopolitical strategy and economic consequences. While the blockade aims to weaken Iran’s financial position, it also constrains global oil supply, driving up costs for consumers and businesses worldwide.

The situation underscores the outsized influence of the Strait of Hormuz on energy markets. Even partial disruptions can trigger significant price swings, as traders factor in the risk of supply shortages. The current spike reflects not only reduced output but also uncertainty about future conditions.

For U.S. policymakers, the timing presents a challenge. Rising fuel prices have historically carried political consequences, particularly in the lead-up to elections. With inflation already a concern for many households, sustained increases at the pump could shape public sentiment and economic outlook.

From a global perspective, the الأزمة has exposed vulnerabilities in energy infrastructure and supply chains. Countries heavily reliant on imported oil may face increased costs for transportation, manufacturing and agriculture, amplifying economic strain.

The divergence between political messaging and market behavior is also notable. While officials emphasize progress toward de-escalation, investors continue to price in risk, suggesting limited confidence in a near-term resolution.

Looking ahead, the trajectory of gas prices will depend largely on developments in the Strait of Hormuz and the broader diplomatic landscape. A reopening of shipping lanes could ease pressure, but analysts caution that rebuilding supply chains will take time.

In the meantime, consumers are likely to face continued volatility, with energy costs remaining a central issue in both economic policy and everyday life.

NBC

FIFA confirms Iran’s participation in 2026 World Cup despite geopolitical tensions, Infantino tells Congress

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FIFA President Gianni Infantino reaffirmed Thursday that Iran will compete in the 2026 World Cup, including matches scheduled in the United States, underscoring the organization’s stance that football should remain a unifying force despite escalating geopolitical tensions.

Opening the 76th FIFA Congress in Vancouver, Infantino emphasized the governing body’s commitment to inclusivity, stating that the tournament will proceed with all qualified teams regardless of political disputes.

“The reason is simple — we must bring people together,” Infantino told delegates. “Football unites the world, and FIFA has a responsibility to uphold that principle.”

The statement comes amid growing scrutiny over Iran’s participation, particularly as relations between Tehran and Washington remain strained. The issue gained further attention this week when officials from Iran Football Federation were denied entry into Canada.

Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand indicated that Iranian representatives, including federation president Mehdi Taj, were turned away at Toronto’s airport. The development followed reporting by Tasnim, an Iranian news agency.

Despite those complications, FIFA has maintained a consistent position. Iran had previously explored relocating its World Cup matches to Mexico, but that request was rejected, reinforcing the existing tournament framework.

The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to begin June 11, with the final set for July 19. Matches will be held across the United States, Canada and Mexico, marking the first time the tournament will be jointly hosted by three nations.

Iran’s absence was noted during the official roll call at the Congress, where all member associations were recognized. Outside the Vancouver Convention Center, a small group of demonstrators gathered, holding Iranian flags in a peaceful protest.

While geopolitical concerns linger, officials from Canadian Soccer Association used the Congress to highlight Canada’s role as a welcoming host nation. Association president Peter Augruso described the country as a hub of cultural diversity and inclusion, emphasizing its readiness to welcome teams and supporters from around the world.

Infantino also addressed concerns surrounding ticket pricing for the tournament, acknowledging criticism while defending FIFA’s revenue model. He noted that a significant portion of tickets has already been sold and that proceeds will be reinvested into global football development.

“We have both premium and affordable options,” Infantino said, adding that tournament revenues are redistributed to support the sport worldwide.

Earlier in the week, FIFA’s governing council approved an additional $100 million in funding for participating nations to offset rising costs. The decision increases the minimum financial allocation to each federation to $12.5 million.

FIFA projects total revenue for the tournament to exceed $11 billion, reflecting the growing commercial scale of the World Cup. Prize money has also risen significantly over time. The winner of the 2026 tournament is expected to receive $50 million from a total prize pool of $655 million.

For comparison, Argentina earned $42 million for winning the 2022 World Cup, while France received $38 million for its 2018 victory. The increasing financial stakes highlight the tournament’s expanding global footprint and economic significance.

Outside the Congress venue, attention also turned to local football concerns. Supporters of the Vancouver Whitecaps staged a rally to protest uncertainty surrounding the club’s future. Major League Soccer has indicated it is evaluating long-term options for the franchise, including a potential relocation.

The team’s ownership group has been seeking buyers for more than a year, with financial constraints and venue agreements contributing to ongoing uncertainty. BC Place, the club’s home stadium, is set to host several World Cup matches, further complicating planning efforts.

The FIFA Congress drew approximately 1,600 football officials from around the world and is expected to generate millions in economic activity for the host city.

FIFA’s decision to proceed with Iran’s participation reflects a broader tension between sport and geopolitics. Historically, international competitions have often served as platforms for diplomacy, even amid conflict. Infantino’s remarks align with FIFA’s longstanding position that football should remain separate from political disputes, though that principle is increasingly difficult to maintain in a polarized global environment.

The situation also raises practical challenges. Travel restrictions, visa issues and security considerations could complicate logistics for teams and officials, particularly in a multi-country tournament. Canada’s decision to deny entry to Iranian representatives highlights how national policies can intersect with global sporting events, potentially creating friction within FIFA’s framework.

From a commercial perspective, the stakes are significant. The 2026 World Cup is poised to be the most lucrative in history, and any disruption involving participating nations could have financial and reputational consequences. Sponsors, broadcasters and host cities all rely on stability to maximize returns on investment.

At the same time, the controversy underscores the evolving role of governing bodies like FIFA. As global tensions intensify, organizations are increasingly expected to navigate complex political landscapes while preserving the integrity of competition. Infantino’s firm stance suggests FIFA is prioritizing continuity and inclusivity, even at the risk of criticism.

For host nations, the tournament presents both opportunity and challenge. Canada’s emphasis on diversity contrasts with concerns about immigration policies in the United States, illustrating differing national approaches to hosting a global event. These dynamics could shape the overall experience for fans and participants.

Ultimately, Iran’s participation will remain a focal point as the tournament approaches. How FIFA and host nations manage the associated challenges may set a precedent for future international competitions in an increasingly interconnected and politically sensitive world.

AP

Ugandan court sentences man to death for killing 4 children after fast-tracked public trial

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A Ugandan court has sentenced a man to death for the killing of four children in a nursery school attack, concluding a fast-tracked and highly public trial that has drawn both public approval and legal criticism.

The ruling was delivered Thursday against 38-year-old Christopher Okello, who had pleaded not guilty and argued that he was not mentally fit at the time of the April 2 killings. The court dismissed that claim, stating that the defendant did not present sufficient evidence to support an insanity defense.

“The accused failed to provide proof that he was mentally unwell when the crimes were committed,” the presiding judge said before ordering that Okello be sentenced to death.

Spectators gathered at the open-air court responded with loud cheers following the verdict, reflecting the deep anger and grief that has gripped the community since the attack.

Authorities said Okello carried out the killings at a nursery school in a suburb of Kampala, where he allegedly entered the premises by posing as a parent. Witnesses recounted that he briefly interacted with staff before securing the gate and launching the attack using a machete. The incident left four children dead and shocked the nation.

The case was handled through a “mobile court,” a system introduced by Ugandan authorities to bring judicial proceedings closer to communities affected by serious crimes. The trial was conducted in a large tent erected near the site of the attack, allowing hundreds of residents and grieving families to observe the proceedings.

The Associated Press previously reported that the trial began earlier in the week as part of a directive from President Yoweri Museveni to expedite the case. The approach marked the first major use of mobile courts in Uganda, following the publication of formal guidelines for their operation in March.

Government officials have defended the initiative, saying it demonstrates a commitment to transparency and accessibility in the justice system. Judicial authorities described the process as an effort to ensure that communities directly impacted by crimes can witness the administration of justice.

However, the speed and public nature of the trial have sparked concern among legal experts and rights advocates. The Uganda Law Society criticized the proceedings, arguing that they risk undermining the defendant’s right to a fair trial. In a statement issued earlier, the organization characterized the process as excessive and warned against potential interference in judicial independence.

Observers also raised questions about the handling of Okello’s mental health during the trial. Reports from the proceedings described the defendant as appearing anxious and at times behaving unpredictably, including episodes of unprovoked laughter. Despite these observations, the court concluded that there was no credible evidence to support claims of mental instability.

The death penalty remains legal in Uganda, though it is rarely carried out. Individuals sentenced to death often spend years in prison as their cases move through the appeals process. It was not immediately clear whether Okello’s legal team plans to challenge the verdict.

The attack itself triggered widespread outrage, with many residents calling for swift justice. Shortly after the incident, an angry crowd reportedly attempted to assault the suspect before police intervened and took him into custody.

The motive behind the killings has not been publicly established.

The case highlights the tension between public demand for swift justice and the legal safeguards designed to ensure fair trials. Uganda’s introduction of mobile courts represents a significant shift in how high-profile cases are handled, particularly those that generate intense public interest. By bringing proceedings directly to affected communities, authorities aim to enhance transparency and public trust. However, critics argue that such visibility can also heighten emotions and potentially influence outcomes.

Legal experts note that the accelerated timeline of the trial raises broader questions about due process. In complex criminal cases, especially those involving questions of mental health, thorough evaluation and expert testimony are typically essential. The court’s rejection of the insanity defense without extensive public evidence may continue to draw scrutiny from human rights organizations.

The public reaction to the verdict underscores the depth of trauma caused by the attack. Crimes involving children often provoke strong emotional responses, which can shape perceptions of justice. In this case, the visible support for the sentence suggests a community seeking closure, though it also highlights the challenges of balancing public sentiment with legal standards.

The use of the death penalty adds another layer of complexity. While still part of Uganda’s legal framework, executions are infrequent, and international pressure has increasingly focused on limiting or abolishing capital punishment. The sentence in this case may reignite debate over its role in the justice system, particularly in cases involving severe crimes.

From a policy perspective, the trial could serve as a test case for the future of mobile courts in Uganda. If authorities view the process as successful, it may be expanded to other regions and cases. However, sustained criticism from legal groups could lead to calls for reforms to ensure that such proceedings meet international standards for fairness and due process.

As the case moves forward, attention is likely to shift to potential appeals and the broader implications for Uganda’s justice system. The balance between accessibility, efficiency and fairness will remain central to that discussion.

The Associated Press

Britney Spears charged with misdemeanor DUI in California weeks after arrest

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Pop star Britney Spears has been formally charged with driving under the influence in California, nearly two months after her arrest in Ventura County, authorities confirmed, marking the latest legal development in a series of personal and public challenges for the singer.

Court filings obtained by the Daily Mail show that prosecutors in Ventura County have brought a single misdemeanor DUI charge against Spears, 44, following her March 4 arrest by California Highway Patrol officers. Law enforcement officials detained the singer around 9:30 p.m. that evening after receiving multiple emergency calls reporting erratic driving behavior.

Records from the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office indicate Spears was released from custody the following morning. Her vehicle was later towed and impounded in Thousand Oaks.

In a statement shared with the Daily Mail after the arrest, representatives for Spears described the incident as “inexcusable” and said she intended to comply fully with legal requirements. The statement added that the situation could serve as a turning point, emphasizing the need for support and stability in her personal life.

Legal consequences for a DUI conviction in California can include a suspended driver’s license, financial penalties exceeding $1,000, probation lasting several years, and mandatory participation in alcohol education programs. First-time offenders may also face potential jail time, though penalties vary depending on circumstances and prior record.

At the time of her arrest, reports from TMZ indicated Spears appeared visibly distressed while being processed by authorities, with sources describing her as emotional and remorseful.

The charge follows a series of recent incidents involving the singer’s driving. In February, Spears was photographed behind the wheel of her Mercedes SUV while appearing to use a cellphone, an action prohibited under California’s hands-free driving laws. No charges were filed in that case. In another episode, she was reportedly seen veering into the wrong lane after a night out, raising concerns among observers about her safety.

Spears’ history with law enforcement dates back to earlier periods of her life. In 2007, she faced a misdemeanor citation after striking a parked vehicle, a matter that was later resolved. The following year, she was cited for driving without a valid license, though that case was dismissed. More recently, authorities conducted a welfare check at her residence in 2023 after a video involving knives circulated online; no charges were filed.

The singer’s legal troubles have unfolded alongside widely documented personal struggles spanning nearly two decades. Her public breakdown in 2007 led to a court-ordered conservatorship that governed much of her personal and financial life until it was terminated in 2021, restoring her independence.

The current DUI charge arrives at a time when Spears has been attempting to maintain a lower public profile, though her personal life continues to attract significant attention. Family members, according to statements released after her arrest, are expected to play a more active role in supporting her moving forward.

Authorities have not disclosed a court date, but the case is expected to proceed through Ventura County’s judicial system in the coming weeks.

While the charge itself is limited to a misdemeanor, the broader implications for Spears could be more significant. Public figures often face heightened scrutiny in legal matters, and even minor offenses can have lasting reputational and professional effects. For Spears, whose career has been closely intertwined with her personal challenges, the case may influence public perception at a time when she has been working to redefine her image following the end of her conservatorship.

The legal system’s handling of DUI cases in California also reflects a broader emphasis on deterrence and rehabilitation. Mandatory education programs and probation requirements are designed not only to punish but to reduce repeat offenses. For Spears, compliance with these measures could play a critical role in demonstrating accountability and stability.

The situation also underscores ongoing concerns about celebrity well-being and the pressures associated with public life. Spears’ history illustrates how personal struggles can intersect with legal issues, often amplifying both. Experts note that sustained support systems, including family involvement and professional guidance, are key factors in preventing escalation.

From an industry perspective, the case may not immediately affect Spears’ legacy as a pop icon, but it could shape future opportunities and public engagement. Brands and collaborators often weigh reputational risks carefully, particularly in an era of heightened social awareness.

Ultimately, the outcome of the case—and Spears’ response to it—will likely determine whether this incident becomes a temporary setback or part of a continuing pattern. For now, the legal process will proceed, with attention focused on how the singer navigates the next phase of her personal and professional journey.

Dailymail

Terror Investigation Opened After Knife Attacker Targets Jewish Men on North London Street in Latest Antisemitic Assault

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A man armed with a knife sprinted down a north London street Wednesday targeting Jewish pedestrians in broad daylight, stabbing two men before turning on police officers in what Scotland Yard characterized as a suspected terrorist attack — the most visceral episode yet in an escalating campaign of antisemitic violence that has shaken Britain’s Jewish community and drawn condemnation from heads of state on two continents.

The two victims, a 76-year-old man and a 34-year-old man, were both hospitalized in stable condition following the assault. Officers subdued the attacker with a Taser stun gun after he attempted to stab responding police, though no officers sustained injuries. A 45-year-old British national born in Somalia was taken into custody, treated at a hospital for his own injuries, and subsequently transferred to a London police station where he remained under questioning on suspicion of attempted murder as of Wednesday evening.

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Mark Rowley disclosed that the suspect carried a documented history of serious violence and mental health issues. Detectives are also investigating whether the same man was involved in a separate knife-related altercation in southeast London earlier the same morning, during which another person suffered minor wounds.

Unverified footage circulated on social media appeared to capture a man wearing a traditional Jewish skullcap being attacked at a bus stop. Subsequent footage showed officers wrestling repeatedly with the suspect in an effort to disarm him. The scenes, raw and disturbing, spread rapidly across platforms and amplified a sense of alarm that had been building for weeks across London’s Jewish neighborhoods.

A Community Under Siege

Wednesday’s stabbings did not emerge from a vacuum. They arrived as the culmination of a sustained and intensifying pattern of attacks on Jewish targets across the British capital that authorities and community leaders have struggled to contain. Over the preceding month, arsonists struck Jewish ambulances, attempted to torch synagogues, and carried out a series of fire attacks on Jewish-linked premises concentrated in and around Golders Green — a north London neighborhood home to one of Britain’s largest Jewish communities — and near the Israeli Embassy in west London. More than two dozen people have been arrested in connection with those incidents.

Last October, two people and their attacker were killed after a man drove a vehicle into a synagogue in Manchester. The cumulative toll has pushed Britain’s approximately 290,000 Jewish citizens into a state of heightened anxiety that community leaders say is now indistinguishable from genuine fear.

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Rowley acknowledged that reality without deflection. “It is completely understandable why Jewish Londoners feel afraid. Jewish communities are understandably angry. There have been too many attacks,” he told reporters at the scene.

His candor did not insulate him from the anger that had been building. A crowd gathered at the scene heckled Rowley as he spoke, shouting that he had failed and demanding his resignation — a confrontation that captured the degree to which institutional reassurances have ceased to carry weight with people who feel targeted in their own neighborhoods.

International Condemnation, Iranian Shadows

The attack drew immediate and pointed responses from foreign leaders. Israeli President Isaac Herzog called for urgent action, warning that it had become “dangerous to openly walk the streets as a Jew” in London. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also condemned the assault. A spokesperson for King Charles confirmed that the monarch was “being kept fully informed and is naturally deeply concerned, in particular about the impact for the Jewish community.”

Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who described the stabbing as “utterly appalling,” acknowledged in a statement that the violence was part of a recognizable and unacceptable pattern. “Let’s be frank, this is not an isolated incident. There have been a series of antisemitic attacks,” Starmer said. He pledged further government funding for security protecting Jewish communities and committed to confronting what he characterized as “malign state actors” operating within or directing violence from outside Britain’s borders.

That phrase carried specific weight. British detectives are actively examining whether the string of arson incidents over the past month carries possible Iranian fingerprints, amid warnings from senior security officials that Tehran has sought to deploy criminal intermediaries to conduct hostile operations on British soil. Just one day before Wednesday’s stabbings, the British government summoned the Iranian ambassador to account for what it characterized as “unacceptable and inflammatory” commentary posted by the Iranian Embassy on social media.

A pro-Iranian organization calling itself Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamiyya, which had previously asserted involvement in some of the London arson attacks and similar incidents across Europe, claimed responsibility on social media for Wednesday’s stabbings as well. Scotland Yard has previously said it was assessing such online claims but has not confirmed their authenticity. Rowley addressed the broader pattern directly: “We know that some individuals are being encouraged, persuaded or paid to commit acts of violence on behalf of foreign organisations and hostile states.”

Britain’s Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis challenged the government to move beyond statements. Words, Mirvis said, were no longer adequate to confront the “hatred” now manifesting in attacks on Jewish Londoners. The government, he argued, owed the community concrete and visible protection.

A Global Surge Reaching British Streets

The violence in London is part of a wider international deterioration in the safety of Jewish communities that accelerated sharply following the Hamas assault on Israel in October 2023, which triggered the ongoing war in Gaza and unleashed a global wave of antisemitic incidents. In December of last year, a gunman opened fire at a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach in Australia, killing 15 people in one of the deadliest antisemitic attacks in the country’s history.

Britain has not been immune to that global current. The concentration of incidents in London — a city that has historically prided itself on its diversity and tolerance — has made the erosion of Jewish safety in the capital feel particularly acute to those who have watched the pattern develop.

When Terrorism and Policy Collide

Wednesday’s attack forces a convergence of several deeply uncomfortable questions for the British government simultaneously. The first is operational: whether existing security resources, community policing strategies, and intelligence-sharing arrangements are sufficient to detect and prevent attacks that appear to be growing both in frequency and in severity. The answer, judging by the accumulating evidence on London’s streets, is plainly that they are not.

The second is geopolitical. If British investigators confirm Iranian state involvement in directing or financing the campaign of violence against Jewish targets, the implications extend far beyond domestic law enforcement. Britain is simultaneously managing a delicate diplomatic posture toward Tehran, navigating its relationship with Washington over the Iran war, and attempting to reassure a Jewish community that questions whether its government grasps the existential dimension of what they are experiencing.

The third is social. Antisemitism in Britain has historically drawn from multiple ideological sources — far-right nationalism, certain strands of Islamist extremism, and more diffuse currents of hostility that resist easy categorization. The current wave, concentrated in a post-Gaza political environment, carries a particular charge that makes political consensus on how to respond correspondingly difficult to achieve.

Starmer’s government has promised more resources and signaled a willingness to name foreign state actors as contributors to domestic violence — a rhetorical escalation that, if followed by substantive action, could mark a turning point in how Britain approaches the protection of its Jewish citizens. What that action looks like in practice, and whether it arrives before more blood is shed on London’s streets, is the question that Britain’s Jewish community is now asking with unmistakable urgency.

U.S. War With Iran Reaches $25 Billion Cost as Pentagon Faces Pressure From Lawmakers

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The U.S. military campaign against Iran has cost an estimated $25 billion so far, a senior Pentagon official told lawmakers Wednesday, offering the first detailed figure as the conflict approaches the 60-day mark and scrutiny intensifies on Capitol Hill.

Jules Hurst, who is performing the duties of Pentagon comptroller, disclosed the estimate during testimony before the House Armed Services Committee, where he appeared alongside Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Dan Caine.

“Approximately, as of today, we’re spending about $25 billion on Operation Epic Fury,” Hurst said in response to questions from Rep. Adam Smith of Washington, the panel’s top Democrat. He explained that the bulk of the spending has gone toward munitions, as well as operational costs, maintenance and equipment replacement.

The figure marks a sharp increase from earlier disclosures. Pentagon officials had previously told Congress that the first six days of the conflict alone cost $11.3 billion, highlighting the rapid pace of military expenditures since the United States began strikes on Feb. 28.

Hurst told lawmakers that the Defense Department is preparing a supplemental funding request that will be submitted through the White House once a full accounting of the conflict’s financial impact is completed. He also committed to providing a detailed breakdown of spending after further questions from Rep. Maggie Goodlander of New Hampshire.

The lack of immediate clarity on how the $25 billion has been allocated drew criticism during the hearing. Goodlander pressed defense officials on why lawmakers had not yet received a comprehensive accounting of taxpayer dollars tied to the war.

“We are 60 days into this conflict and still do not have a basic breakdown of the costs,” she said, questioning whether existing defense funds had been redirected to sustain operations.

Hurst responded that the Pentagon routinely manages contingency operations within its existing budget framework, though he did not specify which accounts had been tapped.

Defense Secretary Hegseth defended the spending, framing it as necessary to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. “What would you pay to ensure Iran does not get a nuclear bomb?” he asked lawmakers during the hearing, emphasizing the administration’s strategic objective.

The disclosure comes as the conflict nears a critical legal threshold under the War Powers Resolution of 1973, which limits a president’s ability to conduct military operations without congressional authorization to 60 days. Lawmakers may soon be required to vote on whether to approve continued military engagement or demand a withdrawal.

So far, efforts in Congress to curtail the conflict have fallen short. The Senate has rejected multiple measures seeking to end U.S. involvement, while a similar resolution in the House failed by a narrow margin.

Beyond Washington, the financial toll of the war is being felt across the broader economy. The ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route, has disrupted energy markets and driven up fuel prices. Data from the American Automobile Association shows gasoline prices in the United States have climbed to their highest levels in nearly four years.

The Associated Press and Reuters both highlighted that disruptions to oil and natural gas shipments have contributed to rising costs for consumers, including increases in fertilizer and other essential goods tied to global supply chains.

The White House confirmed that President Donald Trump met this week with energy industry executives to discuss the economic fallout and potential next steps, including whether to maintain the blockade of Iranian ports. Trump also signaled frustration with stalled diplomatic efforts, warning that Iran “better get smart soon” as negotiations remain at an impasse.

Meanwhile, U.S. officials have acknowledged that Iranian strikes have inflicted more damage on American military installations in the region than initially disclosed, potentially adding billions more in repair costs.

According to Reuters, the $25 billion price tag is roughly equivalent to the annual budget of NASA, underscoring the scale of the financial commitment. The report also noted that 13 U.S. service members have been killed and hundreds wounded since the conflict began.

Public opinion appears to be shifting as the war continues. A Reuters/Ipsos poll found that support for the conflict has declined in recent weeks, with approval ratings dropping as economic pressures mount.

The $25 billion cost figure underscores how rapidly modern military operations can escalate in financial terms, particularly when they involve sustained air campaigns and high-tech weaponry. Munitions, especially precision-guided systems, are among the most expensive components of contemporary warfare, and their heavy use suggests a strategy reliant on sustained strikes rather than limited engagement.

The timing of the disclosure is significant. As the 60-day threshold under the War Powers Resolution approaches, lawmakers are under increasing pressure to assert their constitutional role in authorizing military action. The absence of a detailed spending breakdown may complicate that process, as legislators weigh both strategic and fiscal considerations.

Economic consequences are also emerging as a central factor in the political debate. The disruption of the Strait of Hormuz has amplified global energy volatility, directly affecting fuel prices and inflation. For consumers, the war’s financial burden is not limited to government spending but extends to everyday costs, from transportation to food production.

The comparison to NASA’s annual budget provides a stark illustration of opportunity cost. Funds directed toward military operations could otherwise support domestic programs, infrastructure, or scientific research, a point likely to feature prominently in ongoing policy discussions.

At the same time, the administration’s emphasis on preventing nuclear proliferation reflects a broader strategic calculation that prioritizes long-term security concerns over short-term financial costs. This tension between fiscal restraint and national security objectives has historically shaped U.S. foreign policy decisions and is likely to remain a defining feature of the current debate.

Looking ahead, the ultimate cost of the conflict will depend on its duration, the extent of damage to U.S. assets, and whether diplomatic efforts succeed in producing a lasting resolution. If the conflict continues or escalates, the $25 billion figure may represent only an early snapshot of a much larger financial commitment.

NBC/Reuters

Uganda Detains Over 200 Foreign Nationals in Anti-Trafficking Sweep Linked to Cybercrime Networks

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Ugandan authorities have detained more than 200 foreign nationals in a sweeping security operation targeting suspected human trafficking networks and cybercrime activity, officials said Tuesday, as the government intensifies efforts to curb illegal migration.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs said at least 231 individuals were taken into custody beginning Monday in coordinated raids across multiple locations. The operation focused on groups of foreign nationals living in northern Uganda and in a tightly controlled residential compound in the capital, Kampala.

Officials said the Kampala compound housed 169 people from several countries, including Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Ghana, Myanmar, Ethiopia, Sri Lanka, Cambodia and Malaysia. Authorities described the facility as a restricted environment with its own internal services, including dining areas, and designed in a way that limited residents’ movement.

Thirty-six women were among those found at the site, the ministry said.

A separate operation in northern Uganda targeted a group of Nigerian nationals. Authorities said both actions were driven by intelligence suggesting that large numbers of foreign nationals were residing and working in the country without proper documentation.

In a statement, the ministry indicated that many of those detained did not possess valid passports or legal permits. Officials also disclosed that some individuals told investigators they had been brought into Uganda under false promises of employment.

“Some individuals have claimed they were trafficked into Uganda with promises of employment,” the ministry said. “Others were engaged in cyber-scamming activities, while a number were found with materials that may indicate involvement in additional criminal conduct.”

Simon Peter Mundeyi, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Internal Affairs, told The Associated Press that those detained fall into three main categories: suspected victims of human trafficking, individuals believed to be involved in criminal operations, and people who had overstayed their visas without engaging in illegal activity.

Mundeyi said authorities are working to separate victims from suspected organizers. Those identified as trafficking victims or immigration violators without criminal involvement will be assisted in returning to their home countries, though they will be required to cover their travel expenses. Individuals believed to be key figures in trafficking or cybercrime operations are expected to face prosecution and possible deportation after legal proceedings.

Authorities have not disclosed how long the investigation will take or whether additional arrests are expected.

Uganda has long been regarded as a relatively open destination for migrants and refugees, particularly from neighboring countries affected by conflict, including Congo, Burundi and South Sudan. The country hosts hundreds of thousands of displaced people and has maintained relatively flexible visa policies for visitors from across Africa and beyond.

All factual details, including the number of detainees, locations of the operations, and official statements, were provided by Uganda’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and comments made by spokesperson Simon Peter Mundeyi to The Associated Press.

The large-scale detentions highlight growing concerns across Africa about the intersection of human trafficking, illegal migration, and cybercrime networks. Uganda’s operation reflects a broader regional trend in which authorities are increasingly targeting organized groups that exploit vulnerable individuals under the guise of employment opportunities.

The discovery of a controlled residential compound in Kampala raises questions about how such operations can function undetected. Facilities designed to restrict movement suggest a level of organization often associated with trafficking rings or coordinated cybercrime hubs, where victims may be isolated and pressured into illegal activities such as online fraud.

The mention of cyber-scamming is particularly significant. Across several parts of Africa and Asia, authorities have uncovered networks where trafficked individuals are forced to participate in online scams targeting victims globally. These operations often rely on deceptive recruitment practices, bringing individuals into foreign countries with promises of legitimate work before coercing them into criminal activity.

Uganda’s response also illustrates the challenge governments face in distinguishing between victims and perpetrators. In many cases, individuals involved in such operations may have initially entered as victims but later become participants under duress. This complicates legal and humanitarian responses, requiring careful screening and coordination with international partners.

The government’s decision to require non-criminal detainees to fund their own return travel could draw scrutiny from human rights organizations. While it reflects a practical approach to managing resources, it may place additional burdens on individuals who were already vulnerable or exploited.

At the same time, the crackdown may signal a shift in Uganda’s immigration enforcement strategy. While the country has traditionally maintained an open-door policy, particularly toward refugees, increasing concerns about transnational crime could lead to tighter controls and more frequent operations targeting undocumented migrants.

The international dimension of the arrests, involving individuals from multiple continents, underscores the global nature of trafficking and cybercrime networks. These systems often span several countries, making enforcement efforts dependent on cross-border cooperation and intelligence sharing.

As investigations continue, the outcome of this operation may influence how Uganda and other countries in the region approach similar threats. It could also prompt calls for stronger oversight, improved victim protection mechanisms, and greater international collaboration to address the root causes of trafficking and exploitation.

Trump Image to Appear in Limited-Edition U.S. Passports for America’s 250th Anniversary

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 The U.S. State Department will issue a limited run of commemorative passports featuring President Donald Trump’s image as part of celebrations marking the nation’s 250th anniversary, a move that would place a sitting president inside the official travel document for the first time.

State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said Tuesday that the special passports are being prepared to coincide with the July anniversary milestone. He described the design as part of a broader effort to mark what officials view as a historic national moment.

“As the United States celebrates America’s 250th anniversary in July, the State Department is preparing to release a limited number of specially designed U.S. passports to commemorate this historic occasion,” Pigott said in a statement shared with NBC News. He added that the documents would incorporate custom artwork and enhanced imagery while maintaining existing security protections.

The Associated Press indicated that between 25,000 and 30,000 of the commemorative passports are expected to be issued, primarily through the Washington passport agency. Applicants seeking passports in person at that location during the release window will receive the special edition by default, while standard versions will remain available through online applications and other passport offices.

The redesigned passport will include an image of Trump layered over elements of the Declaration of Independence and the American flag, along with his signature rendered in gold lettering. Additional interior pages will feature historical imagery tied to the nation’s founding, including artwork depicting the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Officials have not confirmed whether any previous U.S. passport has included the likeness of a sitting president. Current passport designs highlight national symbols and historical figures, including images of Mount Rushmore featuring George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln, as well as landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and Independence Hall.

A White House spokesperson, Olivia Wales, described the commemorative passport as part of a broader initiative to promote national pride during the anniversary year. She said the design offers Americans another way to take part in the country’s milestone celebration and reflects what she called a renewed emphasis on patriotism under Trump’s leadership.

The passport initiative comes alongside other efforts to incorporate the president’s name and image into official and symbolic government materials. Federal officials have already approved a commemorative gold coin bearing Trump’s likeness, while the Treasury Department has announced plans to include his signature on U.S. paper currency, breaking with long-standing tradition in which only the treasury secretary and treasurer sign banknotes.

Trump’s name has also been added to federal buildings and programs, including the exterior of the U.S. Institute of Peace and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Banners featuring the president’s image have appeared at several federal agencies, including the departments of Justice, Agriculture and Labor.

Details regarding the passport design, distribution, and official statements were provided by the State Department and reported by NBC News and The Associated Press. Information about related initiatives involving currency and commemorative items was attributed to federal agencies and prior announcements referenced in those reports.

The introduction of a U.S. passport featuring a sitting president marks a notable departure from longstanding design traditions that have emphasized national symbols rather than contemporary political figures. Historically, passport imagery has been carefully curated to reflect shared heritage and foundational ideals, avoiding direct association with current officeholders.

This shift may signal a broader evolution in how national identity is presented through official documents. By incorporating Trump’s image into the passport, the administration appears to be blending political leadership with national symbolism in a way that could reshape expectations for future commemorative materials.

The timing of the release, tied to the 250th anniversary of American independence, adds another layer of significance. Milestone anniversaries often serve as opportunities for governments to reinforce national narratives and identity. In this case, the inclusion of a living president introduces a contemporary political dimension to what has traditionally been a historical commemoration.

The move is also likely to generate debate over precedent and institutional norms. Critics may question whether featuring a sitting president risks politicizing a document that serves as a universal identifier for citizens regardless of political affiliation. Supporters, on the other hand, may view it as a reflection of current leadership during a historic moment.

Beyond symbolism, the initiative reflects a broader strategy of increasing presidential visibility across government institutions and public-facing materials. From currency changes to building signage, the integration of Trump’s name and likeness suggests a coordinated effort to shape the visual and cultural imprint of his presidency.

There are also practical considerations. Because the commemorative passports will be issued only in limited numbers and through a specific location, their long-term impact on standard passport design may be limited. However, their existence could influence future decisions about how major national milestones are marked through official documentation.

Finally, the development underscores the intersection of politics, branding, and governance in the modern era. As governments increasingly recognize the symbolic power of design and imagery, decisions about what appears on official documents carry both cultural and political weight.

Whether viewed as a celebration of leadership or a break from tradition, the commemorative passport initiative represents a significant moment in the evolution of one of the United States’ most widely recognized documents.

King Charles Urges Congress to Guard the Anglo-American Alliance as Britain-U.S. Ties Hit Lowest Point in Decades

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WASHINGTON — King Charles III stood before a joint session of the United States Congress Monday and delivered a carefully calibrated appeal for enduring alliance, invoking shared democratic values and centuries of intertwined national destiny at a moment when the bond between Britain and America has frayed to its most strained point in generations — strained by war, tariff disputes, and a deepening diplomatic chill that the monarch’s four-day state visit was implicitly designed to address without appearing to do so.

Speaking to assembled lawmakers from both parties in the chamber where American democracy has conducted its most consequential debates, Charles acknowledged what he called “times of great uncertainty” while insisting that the two nations’ fates remained permanently bound together regardless of whatever turbulence their governments currently navigated.

“Whatever our differences, whatever disagreements we may have, we stand united in our commitment to uphold democracy, to protect all our people from harm, and to salute the courage of those who daily risk their lives in the service of our countries,” the king told Congress.

The address made Charles only the second British monarch ever to speak before a joint session of Congress. His mother, Queen Elizabeth II, delivered a comparable address in 1991, similarly centered on democratic solidarity and the historic depth of the Anglo-American bond.

A Visit Freighted With Diplomatic Weight

The state visit arrived against a backdrop that few in either capital were willing to describe publicly as anything other than difficult. President Donald Trump has leveled sustained public criticism at British Prime Minister Keir Starmer over Britain’s refusal to participate in the initial wave of U.S.-Israeli military strikes against Iran — a rupture that analysts have characterized as the lowest point in the so-called special relationship since the 1956 Suez Crisis, when Washington actively opposed London’s attempt to seize the Suez Canal by force.

Before his congressional address, Charles met privately with top Republican and Democratic lawmakers and joined Queen Camilla for a closed-door session with Trump at the White House. Trump characterized the meeting positively, calling it “really good” and “a real honor,” and separately told the BBC in a phone interview conducted last week that he believed the king’s visit could help restore warmer ties between the two governments. “Absolutely, the answer is yes,” Trump said when asked whether the royal visit might repair the relationship, adding of the king: “He’s a brave man, and he’s a great man.”

The state dinner hosted by Trump at the White House Monday evening marked the ceremonial centerpiece of the visit, a ritual display of alliance that both governments have a clear interest in projecting even as their working relationship grinds through one of its most contentious periods.

The Special Relationship Under Examination

The term “special relationship” — first coined by Winston Churchill to describe the unique intelligence-sharing, military coordination, and cultural kinship binding Britain and the United States — has faced pointed scrutiny in recent weeks. The Financial Times disclosed Tuesday that Britain’s current ambassador to Washington, Christian Turner, told a group of British high school students visiting the United States in February that the phrase carried “a lot of baggage” and was “quite nostalgic.” Turner went further, suggesting that the United States probably reserved its singular bond for Israel rather than Britain.

A Foreign Office spokesperson moved quickly to contain the fallout, characterizing Turner’s remarks as private and informal and explicitly disavowing them as any reflection of official British government policy. Turner had hosted a garden party for Charles and Camilla at the British Embassy shortly after the royal couple’s arrival in Washington on Monday — an occasion that underscored the awkward proximity of his earlier candor to the pageantry now surrounding him.

Britain has for decades anchored its international identity in significant measure around its relationship with Washington, a tradition sustained by a succession of prime ministers — Winston Churchill with Franklin D. Roosevelt, Margaret Thatcher with Ronald Reagan, Tony Blair with George W. Bush — who cultivated personal chemistry with their American counterparts into strategic leverage. Starmer, by contrast, has found himself the target of repeated Trump rebukes, a dynamic that Charles navigated delicately in his congressional address by quoting his prime minister while carefully framing the citation within a broader appeal to institutional permanence.

“As my Prime Minister said last month: ‘Ours is an indispensable partnership. We must not disregard everything that has sustained us for the last 80 years. Instead, we must build on it,'” Charles told Congress, threading a passage of political endorsement into what was formally a nonpolitical address.

Former British Ambassador to Washington Nigel Sheinwald, who held the post from 2007 to 2012, offered perhaps the clearest articulation of what the visit was and was not intended to accomplish. Speaking to Reuters, Sheinwald pushed back against the idea that Charles had arrived in Washington to patch a bilateral rupture at the governmental level. The visit’s purpose, he argued, ran deeper than any current disagreement between administrations.

“Pretty much more than any other visit, this is about the long term. This is about the fundamentals of the relationship between our peoples, our countries,” Sheinwald told Reuters.

250 Years of Interlinked Destiny

Charles’ address coincided with the 250th anniversary of American independence from Britain — a historical milestone that lent the occasion an added layer of symbolic resonance. That the country which once fought a revolutionary war to sever itself from the British Crown was now receiving that Crown’s living embodiment with full state honors in its legislative chamber captured something essential about how thoroughly the relationship between the two nations had been transformed over two and a half centuries.

“For all that time,” Charles told Congress, “our destinies have been interlinked.”

The formulation was deliberate. Charles is constitutionally barred from engaging in partisan politics and has consistently maintained a posture of careful neutrality on matters that could entangle the monarchy in governmental disputes. Yet the choice to appear before Congress during a period of open tension between London and Washington — and to quote Starmer directly — reflected a calibrated willingness to use the monarchy’s singular soft-power standing in service of national interest 

The Crown as Diplomatic Instrument

The state visit illuminated a dynamic that has characterized British foreign policy at its most resourceful: the deployment of the monarchy as a diplomatic asset that transcends the transactional friction of day-to-day governmental relations. Prime ministers come and go, trade disputes rise and subside, and military coalitions form and fracture — but the image of a British king addressing the American Congress in the Capitol Rotunda projects a continuity and gravity that no bilateral summit communiqué can replicate.

For Trump, who has made no secret of his personal admiration for the British royal family, the visit offered something valuable as well: a moment of ceremonial grandeur that reinforced his own brand as a leader commanding the attention of world figures, even as his administration’s confrontational posture toward London has complicated the alliance at the operational level.

Whether Charles’ visit translates into any measurable warming between the two governments on the substantive disagreements over Iran, trade, or the terms of their security partnership remains genuinely uncertain. Sheinwald’s framing — that this was about the long term, about peoples rather than policies — may prove prophetic, or it may prove to be the diplomatic equivalent of a gracious understatement masking a relationship that requires more than royal pageantry to repair.

What is beyond dispute is that Charles accomplished what he came to do: he stood in the most visible forum American democracy offers, spoke without flinching about the bonds his nation shares with this one, and reminded an audience that has grown accustomed to thinking of the Atlantic alliance in purely transactional terms that some relationships are measured in centuries rather than in any single administration’s ledger.

AP

U.S. Army Soldier Arrested After Alleged Online Threats Targeting Synagogue Spark Federal Case

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WASHINGTON — A U.S. Army soldier based in Louisiana has been taken into federal custody after authorities alleged he made violent online threats targeting a synagogue, prompting swift action by investigators and raising renewed concerns about extremist rhetoric circulating on digital platforms.

Federal prosecutors identified the suspect as Jakob Marcoulier, 22, who was stationed at a military installation in Louisiana. Officials said he was detained last week on a charge of transmitting threats across state lines, a federal offense that carries significant prison time if convicted.

Court filings indicate that investigators were alerted earlier this year after a tip was submitted to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Threat Operations Center regarding a user operating under the name “el.bostino” on a messaging and gaming platform. Authorities say they reviewed recorded audio conversations in which the individual allegedly outlined plans to carry out a mass shooting inside a synagogue.

Prosecutors allege the recordings captured explicit threats describing the use of firearms and tactical gear, along with statements expressing intent to carry out violence against Jewish worshippers. Investigators later linked the account and voice recordings to Marcoulier, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana.

Law enforcement officials moved to detain the soldier following the review of the evidence. He now faces a federal charge that could result in up to five years in prison if he is found guilty.

In a statement issued by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, federal prosecutor Zachary A. Keller emphasized the seriousness of threats targeting religious communities. He said such actions strike at the core of constitutionally protected freedoms and will be met with decisive legal action.

“Threats against places of worship represent a direct challenge to the freedoms guaranteed to all Americans,” Keller said, adding that federal and local authorities remain committed to protecting communities from acts of violence.

The FBI also underscored its role in identifying and responding to threats before they escalate. Officials pointed to the case as an example of coordinated efforts between federal agencies and technology platforms to detect and address potential acts of violence.

A spokesperson for the messaging platform confirmed that the user account tied to the case had been removed for violating policies related to hateful conduct. The company said it actively monitors for harmful activity and works with law enforcement when credible threats emerge.

Marcoulier remains in custody as the case proceeds through the federal court system. Authorities have not disclosed whether he had access to weapons at the time of the alleged statements or whether additional charges could follow.

Details of the arrest, the suspect’s identity, the nature of the alleged threats, and the federal charge were provided by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana and statements from federal investigators. Information regarding the platform’s response was attributed to a company spokesperson.

The case highlights a growing challenge for law enforcement agencies confronting the intersection of online communication, extremism, and real-world threats. Digital platforms have become a central space where individuals can express grievances, organize, and, in some cases, signal intentions to commit acts of violence.

Authorities increasingly rely on tip lines, algorithmic monitoring, and partnerships with private companies to detect such threats early. In this instance, the involvement of the FBI’s National Threat Operations Center demonstrates how critical public reporting and digital surveillance tools have become in preventing potential attacks.

The alleged statements also reflect a broader trend of rising concern over threats directed at religious institutions in the United States. Synagogues, churches, and mosques have all faced heightened security risks in recent years, prompting increased coordination between federal agencies and local law enforcement.

Another key issue raised by the case is the role of individuals within trusted institutions, such as the military, who may become involved in extremist activity. While such cases remain relatively rare, they draw significant attention because of the access to training and resources that service members may possess. The military has taken steps in recent years to strengthen screening and monitoring processes, but incidents like this continue to test those safeguards.

The response from the messaging platform also underscores the evolving responsibility of technology companies in policing harmful content. While platforms have expanded enforcement efforts, balancing user privacy with proactive threat detection remains a complex and often controversial task.

Finally, the swift law enforcement response suggests a continued emphasis on prevention rather than reaction. By acting on early warning signs, authorities aim to disrupt potential attacks before they can be carried out, even when the threat exists primarily in the digital sphere.

As the case moves forward, it is likely to draw further scrutiny not only on the individual accused but also on the broader systems designed to identify and prevent extremist violence in an increasingly connected world.

NewYorkPost

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