Author: Loisa Lane

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Gen. Dan Caine will testify before a Senate committee on Tuesday regarding a supplemental funding request of $67 billion for the Pentagon amidst ongoing escalations in the conflict with Iran, following multiple U.S. service member casualties and extensive military strikes.

The Justice Department sought to access phone records from several New York Times reporters regarding security concerns related to the Qatar-donated Air Force One. The Times moved to quash subpoenas issued for these records, citing improper government tactics, with a hearing scheduled for Thursday.

President Trump has announced a 50% tariff on a variety of Canadian goods, including hockey equipment and alcoholic beverages, effective from 19 August. This decision follows accusations of unfair trade practices by Canada in response to previous U.S. tariffs. The situation highlights rising tensions between the two nations.

President Trump announced plans to enhance security features on the new Air Force One, a luxury jet donated by Qatar. He indicated that upgrades would occur within a month as current capabilities reportedly fall short compared to the older model, which possesses advanced defensive technologies.

Exonerees and survivors convened for a healing event, fostering connections and support among those affected by wrongful convictions. Meanwhile, researchers continue to investigate the enigmatic migration patterns of monarch butterflies, seeking to unravel the mysteries behind their seasonal journeys.

Vice President JD Vance and his wife, Usha, have welcomed their fourth child, Alec Neel Vance, born on Sunday at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. The couple expressed their gratitude towards the medical staff and reported that both mother and baby are healthy.

Senator Mark Warner expressed concerns over the U.S. military situation in Jordan, highlighting the loss of 16 American lives and hundreds of injuries. He criticised the administration’s lack of a clear plan regarding Iran and warned about potential foreign influence in upcoming elections, specifically mentioning the role of China and Russia.

Boston police are investigating a deceased individual found at a property owned by Conan Harris, husband of Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, on Malta Street in the Mattapan neighbourhood. The homicide unit is handling the case, with the scene secured with crime scene tape. Pressley’s spokesperson expressed condolences to the affected family.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum accepted an invitation from President Trump to attend the World Cup final, marking their first meeting since December. Despite tensions over security and trade, she stated her decision was influenced by the direct invitation from the U.S. leader. Bilateral trade negotiations are set for two days after the final.

Billionaire financier Leon Black’s interview with the House Oversight Committee was cut short after subpoenas were issued for nondisclosure agreements. Black’s attorney described the subpoenas as a political stunt, while the committee seeks information related to Black’s past ties to Jeffrey Epstein and an alleged six-year affair.