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- Trump Calls Pause on US Naval Operations in Strait of Hormuz Amid Talks
- New 100-strong Metropolitan unit to safeguard London’s Jewish community
- Archaeologist proposes search for lost Ark of the Covenant in Jerusalem’s City of David
- Trump threatens 25% tariff on European cars amid EU response concerns
- UAE confirms drone strike on Fujairah oil industry zone amid rising tensions
- EU calls on US to meet trade deal commitments amid escalating tariff issues
- French authorities continue search for missing British pensioner Stephanie Thomson
- Aung San Suu Kyi’s son urges France to verify her wellbeing after house arrest
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Trump Calls Pause on US Naval Operations in Strait of Hormuz Amid Talks
10:01 am
Trump Calls Pause on US Naval Operations in Strait of Hormuz Amid Talks
In a significant geopolitical shift, President Donald Trump has announced a pause in US operations to guide ships through the Strait of Hormuz, citing hopes of finalising a deal with Iran. This decision reflects the increasing complexities of US-Iran relations amid ongoing tensions in the region. The announcement comes as US officials aim to navigate the delicate balance of military presence and diplomatic efforts in securing vital shipping lanes, impacting global oil supply integrity. For further details, visit our coverage on global security developments.
The halt in military operations raises concerns about the potential ramifications for energy prices and international market stability. Analysts suggest heightened volatility may ensue if tensions escalate again, particularly given the strategic importance of the Strait. Attention now turns to planned negotiations, with stakeholders closely monitoring developments in the coming weeks as efforts to stabilise the region unfold.
Key developments across the world
Trump puts ‘Project Freedom’ on hold, saying he hopes to finalise a deal with Iran
GLOBAL SECURITY — The US has paused its operation to guide ships through the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing negotiations with Iran.
This decision follows rising tensions in the region, as President Trump seeks to establish a deal with Tehran. The pause in military action marks a significant diplomatic shift, reflecting the potential for negotiated peace over confrontation.
Ex-FedEx driver sentenced to death for killing 7-year-old girl after delivery at her Texas home
INTERNATIONAL LAW — A former delivery driver has been sentenced to death in Texas for the abduction and murder of a seven-year-old girl.
The case has drawn significant media attention, highlighting issues surrounding child safety and the legal system’s response to violent crimes against minors. This ruling could set a precedent for future cases of similar nature in the US judicial system.
How 10 minutes of bombing by Israel tore through Lebanon
GLOBAL SECURITY — Israel’s recent bombing campaign in Lebanon has resulted in significant destruction and loss of life over a brief period.
Witness accounts detail the immediate impacts on civilians and infrastructure, raising international concerns regarding military strategies in conflict zones and their humanitarian implications. This conflict adds to the broader discourse on Middle Eastern security in a volatile region.
Lebanon: Deepening food crisis driven by conflict escalation – IPC Acute Food Insecurity Analysis
GLOBAL MIGRATION — An escalating conflict in Lebanon is exacerbating the country’s existing food crisis, leading to widespread humanitarian distress.
As fighting intensifies, the food insecurity levels have surged, raising alarms about the potential for a large-scale migration crisis as displaced populations seek refuge. International aid efforts are becoming increasingly crucial to address the looming humanitarian emergency in the region.
UN Expresses Concern Over Escalating Clashes in Lebanon and the Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
UNITED NATIONS — The UN has raised alarms regarding escalating clashes in Lebanon and the concomitant humanitarian crisis affecting Gaza.
In addressing these issues, the UN has called for immediate action to alleviate suffering and to foster peace talks. The statements reflect a growing international awareness and urgency regarding the deteriorating situation in both regions.
What to watch — Monitor the outcome of the US-Iran talks, as they may significantly affect regional security dynamics.
Further reading from global news sources
BBC News
Trump says US will pause operation to guide ships through Strait of Hormuz
The Guardian
Trump puts ‘Project Freedom’ on hold, saying he hopes to finalise a deal with Iran
Al Jazeera
Iran war live: Trump says Hormuz operation paused amid US, Tehran talks
The New York Times
Ex-FedEx Driver Who Killed 7-Year-Old Athena Strand Is Sentenced to Death
New 100-strong Metropolitan unit to safeguard London’s Jewish community
8:00 am
Get you up to speed: New 100-strong WTXpolitan unit to safeguard London’s Jewish community
SECURITY RESPONSE
Following a spate of antisemitic attacks, the WTXpolitan Police are deploying an additional 100 officers in London’s Jewish communities to enhance safety measures.
Following a spate of antisemitic attacks, the WTXpolitan Police are deploying an additional 100 officers in London’s Jewish communities to enhance safety measures.
ANTI-SEMITIC VIOLENCE
WTXpolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley reported a need for an additional 300 officers as recent stabbing incidents have intensified concerns over anti-Semitic attacks.
WTXpolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley reported a need for an additional 300 officers as recent stabbing incidents have intensified concerns over anti-Semitic attacks.
SECURITY RESPONSE
WTXpolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley announced the deployment of 100 additional officers to London’s Jewish communities amid escalating antisemitic violence.
WTXpolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley announced the deployment of 100 additional officers to London’s Jewish communities amid escalating antisemitic violence.
What we know so far
An additional 100 police officers will be deployed across London’s Jewish communities in response to rising anti-Semitic violence. The WTXpolitan Police announced the creation of a new community protection team to address what they describe as some of the highest levels of hate crime in the capital.
This move follows a double stabbing in Golders Green, which is being treated as a terrorist incident, alongside recent arson attacks on Jewish ambulances and a memorial wall. WTXpolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley has characterised the recent attacks as a ‘pandemic’ of antisemitism, stating that a further 300 officers are needed to ensure safety.
The Home Office is providing an additional £18 million in funding, with another £4 million available through the Jewish Community Protective Security Grant. Local residents expressed concern over their safety, with one stating that discussions about moving to another country are becoming more frequent among families in the area.
Jewish advocacy groups have condemned the necessity of enhanced security measures, with the Campaign Against Antisemitism asserting that the situation reflects lawlessness in modern Britain. The WTXpolitan Police is emphasising that while focus is being given to protecting Jewish communities, tackling all forms of hate crime remains a policing priority.
Read in full
New 100-strong Met unit to protect Jewish people in London | News UK
An extra 100 police officers are being deployed across London’s Jewish communities as more anti-semitic attacks are feared.
The WTXpolitan Police said the new community protection team will help ‘face some of the highest levels of hate crime alongside significant terrorist and hostile state threats’.
This includes the double stabbing in Golders Green, which is being treated as an act of terrorism, and arson attacks on volunteer Jewish ambulances and an October 7 memorial wall.
WTXpolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley described the spate of attacks as a ‘pandemic’ of antisemitism, saying an extra 300 police officers were needed.
The Home Office is committing an extra £18 million, and a further £4 million is available through the Jewish Community Protective Security Grant.
Mark, who lives around the corner from the Golders Green attack, said he and his family are feeling more unsafe ‘with each passing day’.
He told WTX: ‘My wife is terrified. The attacks are near-daily at this point.
‘We are on alert at all times, and the conversation about moving to another country is becoming more and more frequent.’
Jewish groups are also outraged the money and extra-protection is needed in the first place.
Campaign Against Antisemitism told WTX: ‘ewish institutions are inevitably having to take yet more precautions as a result of the latest spate of antisemitic violence.
‘For years Jewish children have gone to school behind bomb-resistant glass and practiced emergency drills, Jewish congregants have gone to synagogue behind guards and barbed wire, and Jewish communal events have kept their locations secret even from attendees until the last minute.
‘This is lawlessness in modern Britain.’
Latest London news
To get the latest news from the capital, visit WTX’s London news hub.
The WTXpolitan Police said: ‘British Jews now appear on the hate lists of every major extremist movement: extreme right‑wing groups, Islamist terrorists, elements of the extreme left and hostile state actors.
‘It is a deeply concerning convergence, and Jewish communities are living with the consequences of that risk daily.
‘This focus does not mean the WTXpolitan Police is deprioritising other communities. Hate crime in all its forms – including ongoing efforts to tackle racism, anti‑Muslim hate crime, homophobia and other forms of hatred in the capital – remains a core policing priority.’
Archaeologist proposes search for lost Ark of the Covenant in Jerusalem’s City of David
7:00 am
Get you up to speed: Archaeologist proposes search for lost Ark of the Covenant in Jerusalem’s City of David
Archaeologist Dr Chris McKinny has proposed a theory that the lost Ark of the Covenant resides in the City of David, just south of Jerusalem’s Temple Mount. His team plans to scan the City of David using technology designed to detect buried metals and hidden chambers deep beneath the surface.
Archaeologist Dr Chris McKinny has proposed that the lost Ark of the Covenant may be located in underground spaces in the City of David, according to his documentary Legends of the Lost Ark. The plan includes using advanced scanning technology to detect buried metals and hidden chambers, though McKinny emphasised that this remains a long-term possibility rather than an immediate excavation project.
Archaeologist Dr Chris McKinny plans to use advanced scanning technology to detect the Ark of the Covenant, believed to be located in underground spaces in the City of David, south of Jerusalem’s Temple Mount. While he emphasises that this remains a theory rather than an active excavation project, he expressed excitement about the potential findings.
Archaeologist pinpoints possible location of the Ark of the Covenant | News World
The Bible says that the Ark vanished without a trace (Picture: Getty Images)
The location of a chest believed to contain the Ten Commandments has long been a mystery, but now an expert believes he can pinpoint its hiding place.
Archaeologist Dr Chris McKinny has proposed a new theory that suggests the lost Ark of the Covenant resides in the City of David — and he has a plan to prove it.
According to the Bible, the sacred relic, described as an ornate, gold-plated wooden chest, was built by the Israelites shortly after they fled Egypt around the 13th century BC, with Moses placing the Ten Commandments inside.
Some Biblical historians believe the relic was then kept inside the Holy Of Holies: the innermost chamber of the ancient Temple Of Jerusalem, seen only by the high priest of the Israelites on Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.
However, during the Babylonian sack of Jerusalem in 586 BC, the Bible said the Ark vanished without a trace.
McKinny and his team believe that technology could detect the Ark, if it still exists (Picture: Getty Images)
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Though McKinny does not claim to have discovered the Ark of the Covenant or to know its exact location with certainty, he has proposed the Ark could be hidden within underground spaces in the City of David, just south of Jerusalem’s Temple Mount.
Researchers now plan to scan the City of David using powerful technology designed to detect buried metals and hidden chambers deep beneath the surface, Daily Mail reports.
McKinny and his team believe that this technology could detect the Ark, if it still exists, as it is said to be plated with gold both inside and out.
However, he stressed that this remains more of a long-term possibility and theory rather than an active excavation project.
The theory comes from McKinny’s documentary Legends of the Lost Ark (Picture: Getty Images)
The theory comes from his documentary Legends of the Lost Ark, which was released on April 7, where the archaeologist explores three major theories on what may have happened.
According to McKinny, each of these accounts suggests that the Ark was deliberately hidden to protect it from invading forces to save it from being destroyed or captured, and all feature Jeremiah at the centre of efforts to safeguard the relic.
The first theory, often called the Mount Legend, suggests the Ark was hidden beneath the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.
Advanced scanning tools could potentially digitally identify tunnels, chambers and concealed spaces beneath Temple Mount which could aid in this search.
According to McKinny this could help gain greater insight into one of archaeology’s biggest blind spots because traditional excavation using ‘the spade or the trowel’ is largely forbidden.
Many legends surround the Ark (Picture: LUIS TATO/AFP via Getty Images)
A second legend, known as the Rock Legend, depicts the prophet Jeremiah hiding the Ark at a mysterious rocky site located between two mountains.
The third and oldest legend, often referred to as the Mount Nebo Legend, claims instead that Jeremiah carried the Ark to a cave or tomb on Mount Nebo.
Despite this, the precise location described in the texts still remains unclear.
In a recent interview, McKinny said he is ‘excited and hopeful for what will come from that,’ while acknowledging that significant religious, political and logistical barriers still stand in the way of such work.
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Trump threatens 25% tariff on European cars amid EU response concerns
6:00 am
Trump threatens 25% tariff on European cars amid EU response concerns
Tariff Increase
Donald Trump has announced a new tariff threat, raising duties on European cars to 25%.
Donald Trump has announced a new tariff threat, raising duties on European cars to 25%.
Tariff Implications
Trump’s tariff threat could elevate duties on European cars to 25%, significantly impacting transatlantic trade relations and automotive industries.
Trump’s tariff threat could elevate duties on European cars to 25%, significantly impacting transatlantic trade relations and automotive industries.
Official Response
“The EU will respond firmly to any unilateral trade measures that jeopardise our economic stability,” stated Catherine Ashton, former EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs.
“The EU will respond firmly to any unilateral trade measures that jeopardise our economic stability,” stated Catherine Ashton, former EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs.
Key developments
Trump has announced a new tariff threat, set to impose duties of 25% on European cars, raising concerns about escalating trade tensions with the EU.
This announcement coincides with interviews featuring Helge Berger of the IMF and former EU representative Catherine Ashton, highlighting the growing economic implications.
Europe Today: Appease or retaliate? EU weighs response to Trump’s new tariff threat
Published on
On today’s show:
Top story: EU News’ Stefan Grobe on Trump’s new tariff threat that will see duties on European cars rise to 25% and the potential reaction from the EU.
Interviews with Helge Berger, Deputy Director of the IMF’s European Department, and Catherine Ashton, former EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs.
EU News’ Andra Disconescu on Romania’s new prime minister and the political challenges ahead.
Journalist Alja Pengov Bitenc on Slovenia’s new government and the latest political developments in Ljubljana.
Explainer by Jakub Janas: Marco Rubio’s visit to the Vatican and the efforts to repair strained relations.
When and where to watch Europe Today?
You can join EU News’ chief anchor Méabh Mc Mahon and our EU editor Maria Tadeo live on TV and EU News’ website and digital platforms every weekday.
Our new format brings you the day’s key events plus crucial analysis of all the stories shaping the EU and beyond. It’s also available as a newsletter and podcast.
UAE confirms drone strike on Fujairah oil industry zone amid rising tensions
4:00 am
Get you up to speed: UAE confirms drone strike on Fujairah oil industry zone amid rising tensions
A fire broke out at the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone after a drone attack, resulting in three Indian nationals being taken to hospital for treatment. The United Arab Emirates confirmed that they are intercepting missile and drone attacks originating from Iran.
Authorities in the United Arab Emirates’ Fujairah reported that following a drone attack, a large fire broke out at the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone, resulting in three Indian nationals being hospitalised for treatment. US Secretary of State Pete Hegseth stated, “We’re not looking for a fight,” but emphasised that the ceasefire was still in place despite ongoing tensions.
The UAE authorities reported that three Indian nationals were taken to hospital following the drone attack on the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Pete Hegseth stated that the ceasefire is still in place but emphasised that the situation will be monitored closely.
Iran launches fresh round of air strikes on UAE a day after hitting key oil port | News World
Smoke billows from Fujairah oil industry zone, following a drone attack in the UAE yesterday (Picture: Social Media via REUTERS)
Iran has launched another round of air strikes against the United Arab Emirates a day after attacking a crucial oil port in the Gulf State.
The UAE said in statements on X that they are shooting down missile and drone attacks originating from Iran.
‘The sounds heard in scattered areas of the country are the result of the UAE’s air defense systems intercepting ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones,’ their Ministry of Defence added in a statement.
Residents have been instructed to find a safe location to shelter from the strikes.
Missile strikes have returned to the region for the first time since a fragile ceasefire was agreed between the US and Israel. Picture of previous air strikes. (Picture: Fadel SENNA / AFP via Getty Images)
It comes after Iran struck the UAE yesterday in the first attack since the ceasefire.
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A large fire broke out at the key oil port after a drone attack, officials said.
Authorities added that three people – all Indian nationals – were taken to hospital for treatment after the strike on the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone.
Tensions at the Strait of Hormuz continue more than 24 hours after Donald Trump declared ‘Project Freedom, a US-led operation to guide neutral vessels out of the Strait.
However US Secretary of State Pete Hegseth said the operation was temporary and insisted that the ceasefire was still in place.
He told a press conference: ‘We’re not looking for a fight. Right now the ceasefire certainly holds, but we’re going to be watching very, very closely.’
The situation appears to remain largely the same at the Strait of Hormuz before and after Trump’s ‘Project Freedom,’ with hundreds of vessels lingering around the Gulf of Oman and Persian Gulf (Picture: Marine Traffic)
The speaker of Iran’s parliament Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said reaches of the ceasefire by the U.S. and its allies endangered shipping through the strait.
Speaking from the Oval Office today, Trump said Iran has ‘no chance’.
He added: ‘They never did. They know it. They express it to me when I talk to them.
‘They have no navy — totally wiped out. They have no Air force — totally wiped out. They have no anti-aircraft capability — totally wiped out. No radar. They have no leaders. The leaders are wiped out. The whole thing.
‘Then I read the papers and they say how well they’re doing. They’re not doing well.’
The US said that two American-flagged merchant vessels had moved through the Strait on Monday after the project kicked off.
However, experts have warned that this is just a drop in the ocean compared to some 135 vessels transiting through before the start of the war.
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EU calls on US to meet trade deal commitments amid escalating tariff issues
3:00 am
EU calls on US to meet trade deal commitments amid escalating tariff issues
Trade Meeting
EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič urged the US to honour the EU-US trade deal during a meeting with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Paris.
EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič urged the US to honour the EU-US trade deal during a meeting with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Paris.
Tariff Discrepancies
The US currently imposes tariffs on EU goods that can exceed 30%, significantly deviating from the agreed 15% cap, impacting bilateral trade relations.
The US currently imposes tariffs on EU goods that can exceed 30%, significantly deviating from the agreed 15% cap, impacting bilateral trade relations.
Šefčovič’s Call
“We urge the US to honour its commitments under the Turnberry agreement, maintaining the all-inclusive 15% tariff rate,” stated EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič.
“We urge the US to honour its commitments under the Turnberry agreement, maintaining the all-inclusive 15% tariff rate,” stated EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič.
Key developments
EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič on Tuesday called on the US to honour the EU-US trade deal during discussions in Paris, amid rising tensions over its implementation.
During the meeting, Šefčovič highlighted the need for a swift return to the agreed tariff cap of 15%, as current US tariffs on EU goods approach 30% for certain products.
Negotiations among EU governments and European Parliament members remain fraught, with calls for safeguards from MEPs that depend on US compliance with the agreement.
EU trade chief urges US to ‘swiftly’ restore 15% tariff arrangement
Published on
EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič on Tuesday urged the US to honour its side of the EU-US trade deal during a meeting in Paris with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.
Tensions have escalated in recent days over the implementation of the EU-US trade deal reached almost a year ago in Turnberry, Scotland, after US President Donald Trump threatened to impose 25% tariffs on EU cars, in breach of the agreement capping US tariffs on EU goods at 15%.
The agreement was further shaken in February after the White House introduced new tariffs following a US Supreme court ruling declaring the 2025 tariffs illegal.
A European Commission spokesperson said Tuesday that during the 90-minute meeting with Greer, Šefčovič called for a “swift return” to the agreed Turnberry terms, meaning “a 15% all-inclusive tariff rate.”
The US currently imposes a 10% tariff on EU goods on top of duties already in place before Trump’s return to the White House in 2025, with rates varying across EU products. Combined duties can now reach as much as 30% on certain EU exports, such as cheese, exceeding the 15% cap established in the EU–US agreement.
During the meeting, Šefčovič also updated his counterpart on the EU’s implementation of the agreement, the spokesperson said, “to clarify” where the EU “stands.”
Washington wants Brussels to accelerate the EU legislative process needed to implement the deal, including the bloc’s commitment to cut tariffs on US industrial goods to zero.
But negotiations between EU governments and Members of the European Parliament remain tense.
MEPs want to add safeguards that would make EU tariff cuts conditional on the US implementing its side of the agreement. They are also pushing for a “sunset clause” that would terminate the deal in March 2028 unless renewed.
The European Parliament’s position is backed by France, while Germany and other member states want to preserve the original agreement struck in July 2025 by Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
A round of negotiation is scheduled for Wednesday evening.
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