Samir Haddad
Trump announces US naval blockade of Iran and 20% toll in Hormuz Strait
The United States is implementing a mandatory 20% transit toll and a naval blockade of the Iranian coastline following a collapse in regional ceasefire talks. The move has drawn formal opposition from the International Maritime Organization and caused a rise in oil prices.
Trump declares US control of Strait of Hormuz and reinstates port blockade
The United States has designated itself the 'Guardian of the Hormuz Strait' and announced a new naval blockade and toll system for cargo vessels. The policy follows recent U.S. drone strikes on Iranian facilities and the collapse of a regional memorandum of understanding.
California sues to block federal restart of offshore oil pipeline
California officials are suing to stop Sable Offshore Corp. from operating a pipeline, arguing that federal emergency powers do not override state law.
Trump plans US takeover of Strait of Hormuz with 20 percent cargo tax
President Trump has declared a U.S.-led naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, announcing a 20 percent cargo levy to fund security operations in the region.
US military launches new strikes on Iran as regional attacks escalate
US forces have intensified operations against Iran following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and retaliatory strikes across the Gulf region. These actions occur as diplomatic efforts to secure the maritime corridor reach a stalemate.
Bangkok pub fire kills at least 27 people
At least 27 people died and 63 were injured after a blaze tore through a popular Bangkok pub. Authorities are investigating a circuit breaker explosion and whether fire exits were obstructed.
Qatar's Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani laid to rest in Doha
Qatar is observing four days of national mourning following the death of Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. The former leader, who reigned from 1995 until his 2013 abdication, was laid to rest at the Lusail Cemetery following funeral prayers in Doha.
Sen. Lindsey Graham Dies at 71 After ‘Brief and Sudden Illness’
South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham, a long-time Republican power broker and foreign policy advocate, has passed away at age 71. His sudden death creates a vacancy that will be filled by a gubernatorial appointment until the November 2026 election.
Police say no suggestion of political motive in Widdecombe killing
Devon and Cornwall Police have stated there is no evidence that the death of former politician Ann Widdecombe was politically motivated or terror-related. A 28-year-old man remains in custody as authorities continue their investigation.
Qatari former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani dies at 74
The Amiri Diwan announced the death of former Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who oversaw the nation's rapid modernization and development.
Lindsey Graham, key ally of Donald Trump, dies after sudden illness, his office says
South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham, a pivotal figure in Republican foreign policy and an ally of Donald Trump, has died at the age of 71. His passing leaves a vacancy in the Senate during an active election cycle.
US and Iran exchange strikes as Tehran again says strait of Hormuz is closed
The US launched strikes on at least 140 Iranian sites following an IRGC attack on a commercial vessel and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump’s Justice Department subpoenas NY Times journalists over Qatari Air Force One report
Federal agents have ordered several New York Times reporters to testify before a grand jury following reports on security vulnerabilities in the president's Qatari-gifted jet.
UK police make new arrest over killing of former politician Ann Widdecombe
A 28-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after former MP and Reform UK spokesperson Ann Widdecombe was found dead at her home.
Iran and US trade threats as tensions rise over Strait of Hormuz access
Military skirmishes and conflicting interpretations of the Islamabad Memorandum have stalled peace efforts in the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian leader Mojtaba Khamenei has vowed revenge against the U.S. following recent military strikes.
Trump declares Iran ceasefire over following Strait of Hormuz attacks
President Trump declared the ceasefire over following Iranian attacks on commercial tankers and a subsequent U.S. bombing campaign. Indirect diplomatic talks remain ongoing through mediators in Qatar and Oman.
New York Times reporters subpoenaed over Air Force One security reporting
New York Times journalists have been ordered to appear before a federal grand jury after reporting on alleged security flaws in the new presidential aircraft. The action has drawn sharp condemnation from press freedom groups and the newspaper's legal team.
Mojtaba Khamenei vows US revenge
New Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has pledged retaliation for the airstrike killing of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, further straining ties with the US.
Venezuela earthquake death toll tops 4,000 amid urgent recovery efforts
Over 4,000 people have been confirmed dead following back-to-back earthquakes in Venezuela, triggering an urgent $300 million humanitarian appeal.
US demands Iran publicly state that Strait of Hormuz is open
Washington has demanded that Iran guarantee open international transit through the Strait of Hormuz following the collapse of an interim ceasefire. This comes as military strikes and regional hostilities continue to escalate.