Author: Loisa Lane

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche rescinded plans for the $1.8 billion Anti-Weaponization Fund, responding to pressure from Senators Thom Tillis and John Cornyn. The order clarifies that no funds were allocated, and the scope of a related tax audit immunity for Trump is limited to past claims only.

Gaza: overnight Israeli strikes kill at least 8, including a husband and wife, amid ongoing conflict developments.

Ohio Representative Marcy Kaptur was hospitalised with non-life-threatening injuries following a hit-skip car crash in Toledo on Sunday. Kaptur, 80, was a passenger en route to a church service. An investigation is ongoing as authorities seek the driver who fled the scene.

Democratic Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona expressed concerns over the Biden administration’s handling of the ongoing conflict, highlighting a lack of strategic goals amid escalating military actions. He emphasised the rising costs affecting Americans and questioned the proposed defence funding requests in light of mounting national debt.

President Trump announced that the United States would “cancel the attack” on Iran after indicating a potential peace deal. This follows consultations with Iran and Middle Eastern nations, aiming for the reopening of the Hormuz Strait and a halt to Iran’s nuclear threats. U.S. embassies in the region issued security alerts amid heightened tensions.

Federal prosecutors have requested the dismissal of charges against former U.S. Olympic canoeist David Hearn for allegedly damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. New evidence indicates the damage was due to faulty installation by a contractor rather than vandalism.

President Trump issued an ultimatum to Senators Thom Tillis and John Cornyn regarding the confirmation of Todd Blanche as attorney general, stating he would push for the “anti-weaponization fund” if they did not comply. Tillis expressed concern over the fund’s revival and hopes for a resolution by Tuesday.

Malicious cyber activity affected technology at over 30 water systems in Minnesota and at least six other states, prompting some utilities to switch to manual operations. U.S. officials are investigating whether the attack is linked to Iranian hackers, though attribution remains unconfirmed.

Hamas agreed to disarm in Gaza as Trump addresses the Cabinet meeting at Camp David. Replay: US President Donald Trump addresses Cabinet meeting.

The United States and Israel are coordinating a potential bombing campaign targeting energy infrastructure in Iran, with strikes expected over the weekend. Sources indicate President Trump has yet to issue final orders, amid concerns regarding economic impacts and discussions of military options with Israeli officials.