Iniaes

EU Red Sea naval mission “Aspides” on standby as Houthi threats loom

European officials say the EU’s Red Sea naval mission, Aspides, is ready to resume its defensive role if Houthi attacks on merchant shipping restart. With recent Houthi ballistic missile launches at Israel, observers worry they could also disrupt traffic through Bab el-Mandeb (between Yemen and Djibouti), a chokepoint that, if blocked while Hormuz stays constrained, could tighten global oil supply and spike prices—because reality is held together with duct tape and a few narrow sea lanes.

Mysterious NT-43A “RAT55” spotted near Kennedy Space Center, likely supporting Artemis II

The U.S. Air Force Materiel Command’s rarely seen NT-43A, a heavily modified Boeing 737-200 nicknamed RAT55, was spotted near Melbourne, Florida, orbiting restricted airspace around Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex 39B under the callsign NASA522. Outfitted with large radar arrays and modular electro-optical and infrared sensors, it appears to be gathering tracking or telemetry data for NASA’s Artemis II, the SLS mission slated to send four astronauts on a lunar flyby—because nothing says “back to the Moon” like a spy-plane-adjacent 737 doing donuts over Florida.

AI compute crunch replaces “bubble” fears, infrastructure players smell blood in the water

Frontier AI labs are increasingly worried they don’t have enough computing capacity, energy, chips, or data-center space to meet demand, reversing late-2023 anxieties about an AI spending bubble. Supply-chain constraints and geopolitical tensions are forcing prioritization and trade-offs, including reallocating resources by pausing products like OpenAI’s Sora. Some argue the squeeze could enforce efficiency and focus, while BlackRock CEO Larry Fink says the long-term winners may be the infrastructure builders—which is billionaire for “the boring parts will make the real money, as usual.”

AI labs keep tripping over their own pipelines, security by oops

Recent mishaps highlight how internal development processes can undermine AI security. Anthropic reportedly exposed an unreleased high-end model to potential compromise and soon after unintentionally shipped the full source code of its flagship coding tool. Similar operational lapses have reportedly hit Meta, Microsoft, and OpenAI, fueling concerns about discipline at major labs and the downstream trustworthiness of third-party AI tools—because nothing screams “enterprise-ready” like “we accidentally uploaded the crown jewels.”

Cisco warns AI infrastructure needs are being underestimated, and multi-agent systems widen risk

Cisco president and chief product officer Jeetu Patel says the industry is underestimating how much AI infrastructure will be required, with component shortages pushing vendors into a supply-constrained market. He says limited supply is forcing vendors to balance customers rather than just selling to the highest bidder, sometimes turning down larger offers to avoid serving only hyperscalers. He also warns multi-agent AI systems increase security risks and argues companies with more AI-skilled talent will gain a competitive edge—which is a polite way of saying “learn this stuff or enjoy being technologically lapped.”

Tech firms raise security after Iran threats, with concerns extending beyond the Middle East

U.S. tech companies with operations in the Middle East, including Nvidia, Apple, Meta, Microsoft, and Google, are increasing security after Iran issued threats against their facilities and urged employees and nearby residents to evacuate. The move follows last month’s reported strike on AWS data centers that caused outages, and security measures are reportedly being extended to sites worldwide, including in the U.S., as HiveWatch reports a surge in monitoring and threat-detection requests. In other words, the cloud is very real, very physical, and apparently one geopolitical tantrum away from going dark.

Axios JavaScript Library Backdoor Linked to North Korea

A supply-chain attack compromised certain versions of Axios, a widely used JavaScript library distributed via NPM, by adding a cross-platform remote access trojan. Security experts warn that determining how broadly the tainted package spread—and the full downstream impact across dependent software—may take time.

Hilary Swank to Receive an Honor at the Environmental Working Group’s Earth Day Dinner

Hilary Swank will be honored at the Environmental Working Group’s Earth Day Dinner on April 22. Miranda Kerr and Erin Foster will also participate in the event, presented in partnership with Mika Brzezinski and Know Your Value.

Thai director Banjong Pisanthanakun joins the horror film 'Inherit'

Thai filmmaker Banjong Pisanthanakun is set to direct the horror feature 'Inherit', backed by Thai studio GDH 559, with 'Parasite' producer Barunson E&A handling international sales. Adapted from a landmark Thai horror novel, the project will be Banjong’s first film in five years.

King Charles III Invited to Address Congress During U.S. Visit

Congressional leaders have invited King Charles III to deliver an address to Congress during his late-April visit to the United States with Queen Camilla.

Gulf Fishermen Suffer Major Economic Losses After Oil Spill

Fishing communities along the Gulf of Mexico are facing significant economic losses following an oil spill affecting coastal areas in at least three states.

Trump says his Miami presidential library will likely include a hotel

President Trump said his planned presidential library in Miami will most likely include an attached hotel. He described a complex that could also include office space, featuring what he called a “beautiful building” and a 747 Air Force One displayed in the lobby.

Briton in Australia who raised £1.5 million through Thailand charity bike rides plans a second event for UK cyclists

Steve Carroll, a British expatriate who has lived in Australia for two decades, has returned to the East Midlands to recruit UK participants for a new charity cycling challenge linked to his Thailand event. His five-day ride covers 100 kilometers a day and has raised about £1.5 million for Hands Across the Water, which supports children’s homes and related education projects in Thailand. Carroll plans to keep running the Thailand ride while expanding participation from the UK, targeting non-professional cyclists willing to take on the 500-kilometer endurance fundraiser.

Ducklings Rescued from a Storm Drain in Texas

Ducklings were rescued from a storm drain in Texas after firefighters, animal services officers, and public works employees worked together to bring the family to safety.

UK Prime Minister Starmer Defends NATO After Trump Questions U.S. Commitment

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended NATO after President Trump suggested the United States might reconsider its membership in the alliance once the conflict with Iran ends. Speaking at a press conference at Downing Street, Starmer called NATO “the single most effective military alliance the world has ever seen.”

West Bank General Strike Shuts Shops in Protest of Israel’s Death Penalty Law for Palestinians

Shops across the West Bank closed as part of a general strike protesting Israel’s newly passed law allowing the death penalty for Palestinians. Thousands also marched, with critics calling the law unjust and demanding it be repealed immediately.

European Sleeper Launches Its First Overnight Train from Paris to Berlin

European Sleeper has introduced its first overnight service from Paris to Berlin, a 14-hour journey positioned as a practical alternative to flying. The route can save money and reduce time spent on airport check-ins and security by keeping travel centered on the train.

Longview maintenance scheduled for US-Central (Dallas)

Longview will run maintenance on April 1, 2026 from 12:00 to 14:00 UTC. Existing graphs will remain visible, but fresh data may pause until service fully resumes afterward.

Europe’s security rethink, a soldier in uniform and a suit

Léocadie Reimers is part of a new generation treating European security like a dual-career track: military experience on one side, private-sector defense work on the other. Because nothing says “modern geopolitics” like needing both a rifle qualification and a LinkedIn Premium subscription.

Trump extends timeline for US to leave Iran

Trump says the US will leave Iran within two to three weeks, longer than the previously cited four to six weeks. The moving target is back, folks—foreign policy as an improvised drum solo where the beat changes every time someone coughs in the room.

US hints at reconsidering NATO ties amid Iran dispute

Marco Rubio echoed Trump-style threats, warning the US may reassess relations with NATO over Iran, while EU leaders say they will support efforts around the Strait of Hormuz after the most intense fighting ends, and reiterate NATO is defensive. Nothing screams “steady alliance management” like publicly shopping for leverage with the subtlety normally reserved for reality TV.

Gulf public opinion hardens against Iran after strikes

Across Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, more citizens now see Iran as an enemy after missile and drone strikes hit civilian infrastructure, with fears over safety, schools, travel, and economic fallout driving the shift. Some still argue for avoiding escalation, but many say normal relations are not possible under Iran’s current leadership.

Germany’s first LNG deliveries from Oman arrive, but exposure may be higher than admitted

Germany’s first LNG cargoes from Oman are arriving on schedule despite Middle East disruptions, yet supply-chain analysis suggests Berlin may be more vulnerable to the crisis than officials have acknowledged. Translation: the energy security briefing might be doing what political briefings do best—rounding down inconvenient reality.

UK Labour divides over immigration reform and support for overseas children

Dame Emily Thornberry is facing internal criticism after opposing the government’s immigration reforms and urging Keir Starmer to rethink changes that could leave around 90,000 overseas children without taxpayer-funded support. Critics argue expanded routes to indefinite leave to remain would increase welfare eligibility and strain finances, as the broader plan includes shorter temporary protections, return requirements when countries are deemed safe, and a pilot offering money for some failed asylum seeker families to leave.

Somerset fence dispute becomes a full bureaucratic opera

A Somerset homeowner built a 1.8m timber fence without permission, then had to file a retrospective planning application after a neighbor complained. The homeowner says it improves privacy and safety for a child and pets, supporters largely agree, and an objector claims it harms the street’s “open character”—a phrase that exists solely to turn wood planks into a municipal saga.

Philadelphia nurse charged after alleged assault of 1-year-old

A registered nurse in Pennsylvania faces multiple criminal charges after footage allegedly showed her assaulting a 1-year-old infant. A victim’s family has also sued the nurse and her employer, alleging the child was repeatedly and violently choke-slammed.

Arkansas GOP primary runoff, Kim Hammer projected to win secretary of state race

State Sen. Kim Hammer is projected to win the Republican primary runoff for Arkansas secretary of state, defeating Bryan Norris. Hammer had backing from top state Republican officials, while Norris was supported by MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell, which is a sentence that pretty much writes its own satire.

Markets Rally as Trump Floats Troop Exit Timeline, Oil Slips

Stocks rose across Europe and Asia while oil prices fell after US President Donald Trump said American troops would leave in two to three weeks, with or without a deal, sparking investor hopes that the Iran war might wrap up before the next round of televised posturing.

Jeremy Vine Says BBC Dropping Scott Mills Was “Unfair,” Colleagues “Shocked”

Jeremy Vine criticized the BBC’s decision to end Scott Mills’ Radio 2 contract, saying he learned of it shortly before going on air. The BBC said Mills was no longer contracted due to personal conduct but provided no details. Reports linked the move to a historic police inquiry into alleged sexual offences from 1997 to 2000 that was closed in 2019 after prosecutors said the evidential threshold for charges was not met. Vine stressed “there wasn’t a crime” and questioned whether the BBC is overcorrecting amid fallout from its handling of Huw Edwards, including perceived inconsistencies around mental health considerations.

Man Charged With Murder After Westminster Incident

Suliaman Tajzai has been charged with murder in connection with an incident in Westminster and is due to appear at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 1 April.

Tiger Woods to Step Away From Golf After DUI Arrest, Will Miss the Masters

Tiger Woods said he will take time away from golf to seek treatment after being arrested for driving under the influence in Jupiter Island, Florida, where his SUV overturned while attempting to pass a truck and trailer. Police reported signs of impairment, found two hydrocodone pills on him, and said he declined a urine test. Woods has pleaded not guilty to DUI with property damage and refusing a lawful test. The PGA Tour voiced support, and Augusta National confirmed he will not play in next week’s Masters.

Dover Firearms Seizure Leads to Charge

A man has been charged after firearms were seized in Dover and is due to appear in court this morning.

New UK Vehicle Excise Duty Rates Take Effect, More Drivers Pay More

Rachel Reeves’ new Vehicle Excise Duty rates have taken effect across the UK, increasing annual bills for millions of petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric vehicle drivers. Average rises are about £5 a year, with the highest-emitting cars facing increases of up to £40. Cars registered between 2001 and 2017 remain tied to CO2 bands, while cars registered from April 2017 fall under a £200 standard rate. Newer electric vehicles are now included in the standard-rate system, ending previous exemptions.

Developer Brags About “blüuümpíi,” a Tool That Would Hijack Your Files Into Loud .wav Chaos

A developer described a tool called “blüuümpíi” that would convert all files on a computer into .wav audio files without permission, raise the system volume, and blast the audio through previously connected Bluetooth speakers. The post also included a threat of legal action against anyone who provides feedback, which is a fascinating customer service strategy for something that sounds like ransomware’s obnoxious cousin.

Star Wars Boss Kathleen Kennedy Says AI Creativity Lacks Human Experience

Kathleen Kennedy, longtime producer and head of the Star Wars franchise, told an AI conference she is uneasy about AI-driven creative work, arguing it lacks human experience. She also criticized major tech companies for a lack of transparency in the AI debate, which is a polite way of saying, “Stop building the future in a locked basement and acting surprised people are nervous.”

Claude Code Leak Suggests Broader Data Access and Control Than Users Expect

Leaked source code for Claude Code indicates the tool can access and retain more system and user information than many users might assume from its terms. While it does not have persistent, root-level kernel access, the code suggests it can still exert significant control over a user’s computer, store substantial data, and may obscure its AI authorship when contributing to open-source projects that prohibit AI-generated submissions.

Foreign journalist kidnapped in Baghdad

Baghdad officials say unknown assailants kidnapped a foreign journalist, reportedly an American, on Tuesday night. Security forces say they are working to locate her and secure her release, which is the bare minimum expectation for, you know, a functioning state.

Airlines told to “seat-balance” older passengers for faster evacuations

A study says airlines may need to spread older passengers with mobility limitations around the cabin to reduce evacuation delays. Researchers at the Universities of Sydney and Calgary ran 27 simulations of an Airbus A320 emergency and found evacuation times depended heavily on both the number and placement of passengers over 60. The fix could mean families sitting apart from older relatives, plus targeted safety briefings, because nothing says “welcome aboard” like logistics that treat people like carefully distributed carry-on baggage.

Russia moves to curb VPN use as censorship enforcement ramps up

Russia’s digital minister, Maksut Shadayev, said the government aims to reduce VPN usage, tightening limits on tools millions use to bypass censorship. The push follows broader efforts like blocking mobile internet, jamming major messaging platforms, and expanding state powers to cut mass communications. Shadayev promised to “minimize disruption” for users, which is adorable, like a pickpocket promising a gentle touch.

Trump claims Iran war could end in “two weeks, maybe three”

US President Donald Trump said the war in Iran could end in “two weeks, maybe three,” and said a deal would not affect that outcome. The White House said Trump will address the nation Wednesday night, presumably to convert geopolitics into a countdown clock, because why do diplomacy when you can do branding.

Trump plans Supreme Court visit for birthright citizenship hearing

President Trump is scheduled to attend Wednesday’s Supreme Court oral arguments in a birthright citizenship case, per his public itinerary, and told reporters he plans to be there. If it happens, he would be the first sitting president to attend arguments, which is either a historic civics moment or the loudest possible way to say “I am also the main character in the judiciary,” depending on your tolerance for spectacle.

NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani opposes US-Israeli conflict against Iran

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said he strongly opposes the U.S.-Israeli conflict against Iran, arguing it should be resisted on procedural, moral, and political grounds, according to an interview released Wednesday. In an era where officials treat war like a group chat decision, a public, reasoned “no” is practically exotic.

North Philadelphia shooting leaves man hospitalized, no suspects yet

Police say a 45-year-old man was shot at least six times after someone opened fire on his car with a semi-automatic rifle Tuesday evening. Investigators recovered 27 shell casings and found multiple bullet holes on the passenger side of the vehicle. Despite his injuries, the man drove himself to the hospital and was listed in stable condition, while police review surveillance video with no suspects or motive identified.

Sadiq Khan says Trump spreads “lies and propaganda” about London crime

London Mayor Sadiq Khan accused Donald Trump of spreading “lies and propaganda” about London, urging UK diplomats to counter disinformation he says could deter tourists, students, and investors. Khan said London is safer than major US cities and cited crime stats, while Trump has claimed London crime is soaring and revived “sharia law” warnings. The White House blamed “left-wing policies,” keeping the feud alive like a reality show nobody asked to renew.

NASA’s Artemis II Launch: Viewing Information and Mission Overview

NASA’s Artemis II is scheduled to launch from Kennedy Space Center on Wednesday, April 1, at 6:24 p.m. ET (3:24 p.m. PT), beginning a 10-day crewed test flight of the SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft. NASA plans to stream prelaunch fueling coverage and the launch itself via NASA TV, its streaming platforms, social channels, and an official mission blog. The mission will send four astronauts—commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor J. Glover, and mission specialists Christina Koch and Canada’s Jeremy Hansen—around the Moon and back without landing, reaching about 250,000 miles from Earth before splashing down in the Pacific near San Diego on April 10, supporting preparations for future lunar landings later this decade.

Tiger Woods to Take Time Off and Seek Treatment After Crash

Tiger Woods said he will step away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on his health following his arrest after a car crash.

Bruce Springsteen to Launch a Politically Focused Tour in Minneapolis

Bruce Springsteen will begin the American leg of his tour Tuesday in Minneapolis, saying the shows will be “political and very topical” and will address current issues in the country.

Tiger Woods says he will seek treatment after pleading not guilty to DUI charges

Woods said he will step away to seek treatment after entering a written not-guilty plea in a Florida DUI case stemming from a crash on Jupiter Island. A sheriff’s report said deputies observed signs of impairment and found hydrocodone pills in his pocket; Woods told them he had taken prescription medication. He tested negative on a breathalyzer, refused a urine test, and is charged with DUI with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test, with an arraignment scheduled for April 23.

Inconclusive Ballistics Evidence Raises Questions in the Charlie Kirk Killing Case

New court filings say a damaged bullet jacket fragment recovered from Charlie Kirk’s body could not be definitively matched to the .30-06 rifle prosecutors allege was used by Tyler Robinson, with ATF analysis concluding the comparison was “inconclusive.” Prosecutors argue that result neither links the fragment to Robinson’s gun nor supports online speculation that the shot came from another weapon. The FBI is still conducting its own forensic review, and Robinson’s defense is seeking to delay a May 18 hearing to examine pending FBI results and additional ATF materials, potentially calling the ATF analyst as a defense witness. Robinson, 22, is accused of fatally shooting Kirk at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10, 2025, remains in custody, and could face the death penalty if convicted. He is due back in court April 17.

Trump signs executive order to create a national voter list, likely to face legal challenges

On Tuesday, Trump signed an executive order directing the creation of a national voter list. The move is expected to face legal challenges and comes amid ongoing efforts by the president to influence elections that are administered by states.

Video shows Bucks County nurse allegedly pushing a baby with a spinal condition

A video obtained by NBC10 and provided by the family’s lawyer appears to show Cindy Dresser, a 58-year-old homecare nurse with Dynamic Home Health Care, pushing a one-year-old child with multiple medical issues, including spina bifida, down in her crib. Police say home surveillance footage also shows the nurse smacking the child, pulling on the child’s trach, handling her aggressively, and sleeping while on duty. Dresser was charged on March 27 with endangering the welfare of children, is being held in the Bucks County Jail after failing to post bail, and has a preliminary hearing scheduled for April 7, 2026. The family is also suing.

Judge Blocks Trump Order to Cut Funding for PBS and NPR

A judge blocked a Trump executive order that would have ended federal funding for PBS and NPR, ruling it violated the First Amendment by discriminating against and retaliating against the broadcasters.

Israel Suspends Defense Procurement from France

Israel said it is ending purchases of defense-related goods and services from France. The Defense Ministry said Director General Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram ordered French defense procurement reduced to zero, to be replaced by domestic Israeli suppliers or purchases from allied countries.

Artemis II: NASA’s first crewed mission around the Moon in 50 years

Artemis II will be humanity’s first crewed lunar mission since 1972, sending a crew on a 10-day flight that loops around the Moon without landing. The mission includes the first woman, the first Black astronaut, and the first non-American astronaut to fly on a lunar mission. NASA’s head of science discussed the significance of the journey.

Scott Mills was questioned in 2018 over allegations of serious sexual offences involving a boy under 16

Police say former Radio 2 DJ Scott Mills was questioned in 2018 over allegations of serious sexual offences involving a boy under 16, linked to claims dating back to the late 1990s. The case was dropped due to a lack of evidence, and the Met says it has received no new evidence to reopen it. The BBC has acknowledged it knew about the allegations last year and apologised for not making further inquiries.

How U.S. allies in Europe are responding to the war in Iran

The response is shaped by growing resistance to any new military role in the Middle East, even as President Trump criticises NATO partners for declining to back the U.S. operation. The dispute is widening existing tensions within NATO and adding strain to the alliance.

Israeli human rights lawyer condemns newly approved death penalty law

Israeli human rights lawyer Michael Svard denounced Israel’s newly approved death penalty law, questioning why it was approved given the country has not carried out an execution since 1962.

Iran’s ambassador warns UK military bases could be considered targets after Starmer allows US strikes from RAF sites

The future of RAF bases has been thrown into question after Iran’s ambassador to the UK said Tehran is assessing whether British military bases could be treated as legitimate targets. The warning follows Prime Minister Keir Starmer authorising US aircraft to carry out what the government calls defensive strikes on Iranian-linked threats from RAF Fairford and the joint UK-US base at Diego Garcia. The comments contrast with recent UK defence assurances that Iran had no intent to target the UK, and come amid heightened tensions after reported missile activity near the Chagos Islands.

Israel approves law allowing death penalty for Palestinians convicted of fatal attacks

Israel has approved a law permitting the death penalty by hanging for people convicted of deadly attacks against the state, a move widely condemned internationally. The measure is expected to apply primarily to Palestinians in the occupied West Bank tried in military courts, where conviction rates are reported at 96%. Separately, Israel said it will destroy homes along the Lebanon border and prevent roughly 600,000 displaced residents of southern Lebanon from returning to their villages.

Cory Booker Urges Party Renewal Amid Speculation About a 2028 Run

Cory Booker is calling for a “generational renewal,” arguing Democrats must decide whether to keep relying on familiar leaders or open the door to younger, bolder voices to help rebuild and expand their coalition as 2028 speculation swirls.

Historian Peter Frankopan warns of an emerging global order driven by predatory powers

Oxford global historian Peter Frankopan says a more predatory international order is taking shape, and argues the growing rupture between President Trump and European allies may signal a new low in transatlantic relations.

North Carolina horse sets Guinness World Record with 38 tricks in under 3 minutes

A North Carolina horse cranked out 38 tricks in under three minutes and grabbed a Guinness World Record, which is more impressive than most corporate retreats and involves far less PowerPoint.

Elmwood Park Zoo announces birth of a baby ocelot in Pennsylvania

Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown welcomed a baby ocelot, a tiny, spotted reminder that nature still occasionally produces something cooler than yet another app that “reinvents” breathing.

Starlink satellite malfunction releases debris around 560 km above Earth

Starlink satellite 34343 reportedly suffered an on-orbit malfunction and shed debris at roughly 560 km altitude. It is not expected to threaten the ISS or Artemis, but it does add to the growing genre of “billionaire space projects accidentally invent new operational headaches.”

Federal Firearm Rights Restoration Program could return, restoring gun rights for some non-violent felons

A revived Federal Firearm Rights Restoration Program could allow people with non-violent felony convictions to apply to regain Second Amendment rights, potentially starting in April. Supporters call it an end to permanent punishment, critics warn about public safety, and the Justice Department is preparing strict screening, references, and local law enforcement input, because nothing says “simple process” like a bureaucracy with a trigger topic.

Chagos Islanders’ right of abode ruling sparks backlash as UK government plans appeal

A court ruling found the removal of Chagossians’ right of abode on the Chagos Islands unlawful and ordered it quashed. Campaigner Misley Mandarin called it a major step toward justice, then tore into Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the Labour government for planning to appeal—a move that reads like “we hear you,” followed by “we are also suing you.”

PECO union contract expiration could lead to strike affecting 1,500 workers

About 1,500 PECO employees represented by IBEW Local 614 could strike as their contract expires, potentially affecting linemen, gas technicians, mechanics, call center staff, and back office roles. If it happens, expect the usual corporate ritual: praise essential workers, then act shocked when essential workers want essential pay.

Pentagon weighs anti-drone laser deployment for Washington, D.C. base near top officials

The Pentagon is considering deploying a high-powered anti-drone laser system to a military base in Washington, D.C., where Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio live. Nothing says “public service” like the neighborhood getting a sci-fi shield because the VIPs are nearby.

California sheriff and gubernatorial candidate pauses election fraud probe amid legal pressure

Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, a Republican candidate for California governor, has paused his investigation into election fraud allegations tied to a special election as legal challenges mount, including action involving Attorney General Rob Bonta. Translation: the “just asking questions” tour hit the part where lawyers start answering them.

Hegseth says U.S. will stay “unpredictable” about possible ground forces in Iran

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the U.S. military intends to remain “unpredictable” about potential deployment of American ground forces in Iran, refusing to rule out options amid invasion speculation. “Unpredictable” is one word for it; another is “please do not make the world hold its breath as a communications strategy.”

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards threaten U.S. companies in Middle East, name major tech and industrial firms

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said they will target U.S. companies operating in the Middle East starting April 1, calling it retaliation for attacks on Iran. They named 18 firms including Microsoft, Google, Apple, Intel, IBM, Tesla, and Boeing, because if you’re going to saber-rattle, you might as well tag the entire Fortune 500 like it’s a bad group chat.

Police Investigate Reported Bomb Threat at Willingboro High School

Willingboro High School in Willingboro, New Jersey, was cleared early Tuesday after a reported bomb threat as police searched the building. Around 7:30 a.m., families were told buses and traffic were being directed to the Gatanos parking lot, and officials asked the public to avoid the area while emergency personnel worked. As of about 7:45 a.m., the investigation was ongoing, and police had not said whether the threat was credible.

Early, Unreleased GTA 4 Build Leaks After Gamer Finds Abandoned Xbox 360 Dev Kit

Early, unreleased Grand Theft Auto IV files have surfaced online after a gamer bought a Rockstar Games Xbox 360 development kit at a Scottish flea market for £5. The kit contained a partially wiped 2007 beta build, and the community has been recovering assets and testing executables, uncovering early Liberty City maps, different radio station lineups, and cut content, including a ferry. The buyer’s attempt to auction the dev kit was removed due to the included software, and he is now seeking private offers.

Poll Finds Trump’s Approval Rating at 33%

A University of Massachusetts/YouGov poll reports that President Trump’s job approval stands at 33%, while 62% of respondents disapprove of his performance.

Possible Replacements for Scott Mills as Radio 2 Breakfast Show Host

Names being suggested to replace Scott Mills as Radio 2’s Breakfast Show host include Vernon Kay, Claudia Winkleman, Greg James, and Rylan Clark.

Kemi Badenoch urges Keir Starmer to ban doctors’ strikes

WATCH: Kemi Badenoch urges Keir Starmer to ban doctors’ strikes, calling on the Prime Minister to outlaw industrial action by doctors in the same way it is banned for the police and the armed forces. The Conservative leader criticised the government’s handling of junior doctors’ pay, noting a 28% rise while strikes continue, and argued that medical training places should not be used as leverage in negotiations.

Delivery driver forced at gunpoint to take suspicious device to police station

Police say a delivery driver was threatened at gunpoint and forced to drive a suspicious device to Lurgan police station.

Trump Must Decide Whether to Launch a Ground War

Trump is weighing whether to escalate U.S. involvement in the Iran conflict, now in its second month with no negotiations scheduled. Key decisions include how long American forces remain engaged, what risks to accept, and whether to narrow U.S. objectives to encourage a negotiated settlement with new Iranian leadership. If Iran continues to reject talks unless U.S. and Israeli strikes stop, the administration may face pressure to choose different, potentially more escalatory options.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth Strongly Backed Possible Strikes on Iran

During a key meeting on potential Iran strikes, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth supported the president’s plan and minimized the risk of escalation, according to CNN. The report says others in the room did not emphasize major downsides typically raised in such discussions, including economic disruption if Iran retaliates by closing the Strait of Hormuz, and the limits of an air campaign in eliminating highly enriched uranium stockpiles or triggering regime change.

Two Killed and Three Wounded in West Philadelphia Shooting

Philadelphia police are investigating a shooting in West Philadelphia that left two men dead and three others injured Monday evening. Authorities said five men were shot just before 7 p.m. outside the 3/18 Bar at 60th Street and Delancey Street.

TMZ Criticizes Members of Congress for Taking Vacations During the Government Shutdown

TMZ has highlighted and criticized lawmakers who left Washington as the partial government shutdown entered its seventh week. Coverage has included photos circulating in other outlets, including images of Sen. Lindsey Graham at Disney World.

UK says it will not add 30mm guns to its aircraft carriers

The UK government has confirmed it has no plans to install 30mm naval guns on HMS Queen Elizabeth or HMS Prince of Wales, despite rising concern about drone threats to warships. Defence Minister Lord Coaker told Parliament the carriers rely on a layered defence system, combining onboard equipment with escort vessels and broader force protection. The decision stands even though the ships were designed with four mounting positions for 30mm systems such as the DS30M Mark 2, which is widely used across the Royal Navy and can be adapted to engage small surface and some aerial targets.

Iran Hits Kuwaiti Oil Tanker Anchored Near Dubai

Iran struck a Kuwaiti oil tanker anchored off Dubai, officials said early Tuesday, as Tehran continues blocking the Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran.

Naval resource constraints are accelerating the shift to unmanned maritime systems

A maritime math problem is driving a shift to unmanned systems as navies and coast guards struggle to maintain constant maritime domain awareness across vast oceans with limited, costly crewed ships. The solution described is large-scale deployment of unmanned surface vehicles that can patrol for long periods, carry multiple sensors, and stream near real-time data to command centers, reducing manpower and cost while closing surveillance gaps. Saildrone’s wind- and solar-supported USVs are cited as operationally proven, supporting multi-month missions in environments from the Caribbean to the Baltic, and positioned as a complement to manned fleets for missions ranging from ISR to electronic warfare and acoustic monitoring.

Dozens of homes evacuated after security incident at Lurgan police station

Around 100 homes were evacuated and multiple roads were closed in Lurgan, County Armagh, after a serious security alert involving a vehicle left outside Lurgan Police Station early Tuesday. Reports said a pizza delivery van was hijacked, a suspicious package was placed inside, and a controlled explosion was carried out as part of the response. Police urged the public to avoid the Church Place area while investigations continue, and Lurgan Town Hall was opened to support evacuees.

Samsung Ads Introduces TotalView for Unified Ad Reach Measurement Across Samsung Smart TVs

Samsung Ads, part of Samsung Electronics’ media division, has launched TotalView, a tool designed to give advertisers a single, unified view of total ad reach across the Samsung Smart TV ecosystem, covering both linear television and streaming. The solution aims to reduce measurement gaps and support improved planning, targeting, and performance measurement.

Notable birthdays on March 31 include Christopher Walken and Rhea Perlman

Notable birthdays for March 31 include actor Christopher Walken turning 83 and actor Rhea Perlman turning 78.

Eiffel Tower Completed and Dedicated on March 31, 1889

On March 31, 1889, the Eiffel Tower was completed and dedicated in Paris during the Universal Exhibition of Arts and Manufacturers, with a ceremony presided over by its designer, Gustave Eiffel.

Study Finds Lab Gloves May Distort Microplastics Measurements

Researchers report that common nitrile and latex gloves can shed stearate particles that can look like microplastics in lab tests. The team says these soap-like, salt-based additives can transfer from gloves to tools and samples, raising the risk of false positives and inflated microplastics counts in air and water analyses. They recommend switching to cleanroom gloves, which release far fewer particles, and note that some affected datasets may still be recoverable with improved chemical identification methods.