Iniaes

Talarico and Paxton Lead in Texas Senate Primary Poll

An Emerson College poll of likely Texas primary voters shows James Talarico holding a slim lead over Rep. Jasmine Crockett in the Democratic U.S. Senate primary, 52% to 47%. In the Republican primary, Ken Paxton leads Sen. John Cornyn 40% to 36%, with Rep. Wesley Hunt at 17%.

Trump Reportedly Eyes Cuba as Next Target After Actions Against Iran and Venezuela

Reports describe discussions in the White House Situation Room and at Mar-a-Lago about a broader Trump strategy aimed at toppling multiple longstanding authoritarian governments. After U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran and a rapid operation that allegedly led to Venezuela’s president appearing in a New York City courtroom, Trump is said to be focusing next on Cuba.

mcp-firewall: A More Granular Policy Engine for CLI Agents

mcp-firewall is a policy engine designed to provide finer-grained allow/deny controls for CLI agents, currently supporting Claude Code and the GitHub Copilot CLI. It aims to improve on inconsistent, limited command-filtering approaches that individual agents implement on their own, such as glob- or prefix-based rules. The creator notes that while an agent helped generate an initial proof of concept, the current codebase contains little to no agent-generated code.

Progressive Democrats rally around Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez for 2028

Progressive Democrats are increasingly focused on persuading Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to run for president in 2028, arguing she is the strongest option as Sen. Bernie Sanders is seen as too old and no comparable national figure has emerged.

Democrats Eyeing 2028 Differ in Criticism of Trump’s Iran Attack

Several Democrats seen as potential 2028 presidential contenders are criticizing Donald Trump’s military action against Iran, but they are not aligned in how they make their case. Some oppose his push for regime change, while others focus on procedure and politics, faulting him for bypassing Congress, questioning the strategy, and saying he failed to justify the bombing to the public. A few critiques even mirror some of Trump’s own framing, highlighting real divisions in foreign-policy approach and campaign strategy.

Britain to procure 23 new AW149 helicopters

Britain has confirmed it will procure 23 Leonardo AW149 medium-lift helicopters under the New Medium Helicopter programme, consolidating several existing platforms into a single type for roles ranging from troop transport and special operations to humanitarian and disaster relief. The Ministry of Defence says the deal strengthens its industrial partnership with Leonardo, boosts UK workshare to over 40%, and positions Yeovil as a centre of excellence for future autonomous rotary-wing systems, with the potential to support thousands of jobs and enable export orders built in the UK.

Trump Gives First Update on Operation Epic Fury

Thirty-six hours after U.S. strikes on Iranian regime targets began, President Donald Trump released a video update from Mar-a-Lago describing Operation Epic Fury as a large-scale campaign against Iranian security and military infrastructure. He said U.S. and allied forces hit hundreds of targets, including Revolutionary Guard facilities, air defenses, naval assets, and missile sites, while Israel’s parallel Operation Lion’s Roar was reported to have killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and other senior leaders. CENTCOM reported three U.S. service members killed and five seriously wounded. Trump said the U.S. would continue combat operations, avenge the dead, urged Iranian forces to surrender with promised immunity, and called on Iranians to pursue regime change.

Threat Firms Warn Western Targets to Brace for Iranian Cyber Retaliation

Threat intelligence companies are urging Western and allied organizations to prepare for Iranian cyberattacks following ongoing Israeli and U.S. strikes on Tehran. Early signs of an Iranian cyber counteroffensive reportedly surfaced Sunday, amid claims the U.S. and Israel may have carried out a major cyberattack against Iran.

EU Ministers Warn of Economic Shock, Push to Keep Strait of Hormuz Open

EU foreign ministers said they will work to protect European citizens while warning of unpredictable economic fallout. They urged that the Strait of Hormuz remain open, and stopped short of endorsing U.S. calls for regime change in Iran.

Israel Says EU Lacks Unified Iran Position as Spain Condemns Operation

Israel’s foreign minister said the European Union does not have a unified position on Iran and dismissed criticism from Spain. Spain’s government said it opposed what it called a unilateral, escalatory operation that could push the region toward war.

Iranian Foreign Minister Says Tehran Will Do “Whatever It Takes” After Strikes

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran will do “whatever it takes” to defend itself following a series of U.S. and Israeli strikes, adding that Tehran sees no limits when it comes to protecting its people.

FBI Says Deadly Texas Bar Shooting May Be Terrorism

The FBI said a shooting at a Texas bar that killed two people and injured 14 may be an act of terrorism. The suspected gunman, identified by some media outlets, was also shot and killed.

Washington State Stabbing Rampage Leaves Four Dead, Deputy Kills Suspect

Police say 32-year-old Aleksandr Aleksandro Shablykin fatally stabbed his mother, Zoya Anatolyevna Shabliykina, in Gig Harbor, Washington, then stabbed three nearby women—Joanne Kathleen Brandani, 59; Stephanie Killilea, 67; and Louise Sandra Talley, 81—who intervened or tried to help. Authorities said all four victims suffered multiple sharp-force injuries; three died at the scene and one died at a hospital. Deputies serving a no-contact order confronted Shablykin while he was still attacking people, and a sheriff’s deputy shot and killed him. Family members said he struggled with mental health and substance abuse, and reports indicate his mother previously sought a restraining order and wrote that he had threatened her.

Pakistan Protests Turn Deadly After U.S.-Israeli Offensive

At least 22 people were killed in Pakistan on Sunday during anti-U.S. protests that followed a U.S.-Israeli offensive on Saturday, in which 200 people were reported killed.

Trump to Revive Statue of Slaveowner

The administration plans to place a statue of Delaware founding father and slave owner Caesar Rodney in a prominent location in Washington. The statue was removed in Delaware in 2020 amid racial justice protests, and will be reinstated as part of events marking the United States’ 250th anniversary.

Toy Creator Says He Receives No Royalties While Company Profits From Hit Movie

A toy creator claims he receives no money from the toy he designed, saying the company he created it for keeps all the proceeds. He has reportedly turned to a GoFundMe for financial support, while the company behind a $200 million film based on the toy is not providing assistance.

Rapper-Producer May Claim War Destroyed Overseas Breeding Business for Tax Benefits

Blind Item #3 suggests a rapper and producer may claim that a war caused the deaths of animals in his large overseas breeding operation, potentially to secure a tax write-off.

Austin mass shooting leaves three dead, including the suspect, and 14 injured; FBI investigates possible terrorism

An Austin mass shooting killed three people, including the suspected shooter, and injured 14 others. The FBI is investigating and said it may be an act of terrorism.

Sen. Mark Kelly says he is unlikely to support a War Powers Resolution after strikes on Iran

Sen. Mark Kelly said it is unlikely he will vote for a War Powers Resolution following the strikes on Iran, adding that he needs to review the measure and hear from the White House about its strategy going forward.

Scientists warn that an ingredient used in weight-loss pills may have adverse effects involving the gut and liver

Researchers at the University of Adelaide studied the absorption enhancer salcaprozate sodium, or SNAC, used to make oral versions of semaglutide drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic effective. In a 21-day animal study, repeated SNAC exposure was associated with shifts in gut bacteria, reduced short-chain fatty acids that support the gut lining, higher inflammatory markers, increased liver weight, and a smaller cecum, alongside a drop in a brain-derived protein linked to cognitive function. The team stressed the results do not prove harm in humans but said the findings justify closer scrutiny as pill-based obesity treatments expand and could increase long-term exposure to SNAC.

New Book on the Separation of Powers

Cass R. Sunstein has published “Separation of Powers: How to Preserve Liberty in Troubled Times,” arguing that dividing government authority among separate branches is essential to protecting liberty and sustaining democratic governance.

The 50 Toughest Welsh Rugby Players of All Time

A list names 50 Welsh rugby players remembered for their toughness, with reputations that left opponents wary. Several became notorious for reasons that went beyond their achievements on the field.

Foreign-born A-list Celebrity Struggles to Stop Weekly Injections Despite Fatal Risk

A foreign-born A-list celebrity is reportedly continuing a weekly injection she cannot quit, even though it may be fatal. The compulsion is said to stem from the same underlying issue that previously led to her drug addiction.

Political Questions: Some Issues Cannot Be Settled by Federal Courts

“Political questions: Not every issue can be resolved in federal court” argues that the political question doctrine is largely about jurisdiction and judicial restraint, limiting federal courts from deciding certain disputes better left to the political branches.

Iran Strikes Continue for Second Day as Trump Warns Iran Against Retaliation

Live updates: Strikes in Iran continued into a second day as President Trump warned Tehran not to retaliate, while Israel carried out a second round of strikes on Sunday. Trump also called for regime change in Iran and said the U.S. would respond with unprecedented force if Tehran launches a significant retaliation against the United States.

Saturday Night Live faces backlash over Tourette’s sketch tied to the John Davidson BAFTA incident

Saturday Night Live has drawn criticism after releasing an online sketch responding to the BAFTAs controversy involving Tourette’s campaigner John Davidson, who involuntarily uttered a racial slur during the ceremony. The segment framed Tourette’s as an explanation for various public scandals, with impersonations of figures including Armie Hammer, J.K. Rowling, Bill Cosby, Louis C.K., and Kanye West, and ended with a mock PSA featuring an acronym spelling a racial slur. While the studio audience laughed and some viewers praised the satire, others condemned it as ableist for making a disability the punchline. Davidson said he is mortified, stressed his tics included multiple offensive words, and criticised the broadcast handling, as the BBC investigates how the moment aired.

Trump Warns Iran of Unprecedented Force as Israel Conducts New Strikes

President Trump said the United States would respond with “force never seen before” if Iran carried out threatened attacks, following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran. Israel also launched a new round of strikes on Sunday as tensions escalated.

Engineered Bacteria Are Designed to Break Down Tumors From Within

University of Waterloo researchers are developing bacteria engineered to eat tumors from the inside, using the oxygen-free environment in solid tumors to help Clostridium sporogenes spores colonize and consume tumor tissue. To keep the bacteria alive near oxygen-exposed tumor edges, the team added oxygen-tolerance genes and used quorum sensing so those genes activate only after the microbes multiply inside the tumor, along with a fluorescent signal to track activity. The approach remains at a proof-of-concept stage, with researchers aiming to combine these features into a single strain for preclinical testing as a potential alternative or complement to existing cancer treatments.

Hackers Used Claude Code in a Cyberattack on the Mexican Government

Attackers reportedly misused the Claude Code AI tool to help write exploits, build malicious tools, and automate the theft of more than 150GB of data from Mexican government systems.

Senior Iranian Cleric Calls for Jihad Against the U.S. and Israel After Reported Killing of Ayatollah Khamenei

Iranian Grand Ayatollah Naser Makarem Shirazi reportedly urged Muslims worldwide to wage jihad against the United States and Israel, calling retaliation a religious duty to eliminate what he described as the “evil” of those responsible. Top clerics also ordered Muslims to avenge Khamenei’s killing.

Man arrested on suspicion of murder after security guard fatally stabbed

Police arrested a 50-year-old man on suspicion of murder following a stabbing at Centre:MK in which a security guard died.

Three Killed and 17 Injured in Downtown Austin Shooting

Three people died and 17 others were injured in an overnight shooting on West Sixth Street in downtown Austin, according to Austin-Travis County EMS.

Putin Condemns the Killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

Russian President Vladimir Putin sent condolences to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian following the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, calling his killing in U.S. and Israeli strikes a grave violation of morality and international law. Putin said Khamenei would be remembered in Russia for strengthening ties between the two countries and deepening their strategic partnership.

Match of the Day Highlights, Presented by Gabby Logan

Match of the Day features Gabby Logan presenting highlights from six games, including Leeds v Manchester City.

Anthropic’s Claude AI assistant climbed to No. 2 on Apple’s U.S. free apps chart late Friday, trailing OpenAI’s ChatGPT at No. 1 and ahead of Google’s Gemini at No. 3. Sensor Tower data shows Claude was No. 131 on Jan. 30 before moving into the top 20–50 through much of February, with the latest spike following heavy attention around its stance against using its models for mass domestic surveillance or fully autonomous weapons. The app also got a visibility boost from public support, including a Katy Perry post highlighting Claude’s paid subscription, and Anthropic thanked users and supporters in a statement on Friday.

Welsh rugby player and coach Paul Pook discusses mental health struggles after Six Nations success

Paul Pook, a Welsh rugby player who represented several clubs and later helped coach Ireland to the 2009 Grand Slam, has spoken about severe personal and mental health difficulties, including feeling he did not want to be alive, despite major success in the sport.

Graeme Souness stranded in Abu Dhabi and unable to return to the UK after Iranian strikes

Graeme Souness has been stuck at Abu Dhabi Airport after flights were disrupted amid Iranian strikes affecting several Gulf states, including the UAE. The 72-year-old shared Instagram videos from the terminal describing interceptions overhead and explosions heard nearby, and his flight was later cancelled. The wider escalation has reportedly hit both military and civilian locations, leaving travelers and expatriates stranded, while Souness said he planned to find a hotel and wait for the situation to ease.

Predict the 2026 Formula 1 Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championship Results

As the 2026 Formula 1 season introduces a new set of cars and regulations, submit your predictions for the final standings in both the drivers’ and constructors’ championships.

Nigel Farage says he would restrict voting to British citizens and tighten postal voting rules

Nigel Farage has said that if Reform UK wins the next general election, it would limit voting in UK parliamentary elections to British citizens, removing the current eligibility for some Commonwealth citizens under the Representation of the People Act 1983. He also wants to end widespread access to postal voting, restricting it mainly to groups such as the elderly, disabled, armed forces personnel, and those overseas, citing concerns about fraud and intimidation. His comments follow the Gorton and Denton by-election, where Reform lost to the Greens amid police investigations into alleged illegal “family voting” and wider claims of improper campaigning.

March 1 birthdays include Zack Snyder and Don Lemon

March 1 features notable birthdays including filmmaker Zack Snyder and journalist Don Lemon, both turning 60.

On March 1, 2005, the Supreme Court barred the execution of juvenile offenders

On March 1, 2005, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that executing offenders for crimes committed as juveniles is unconstitutional.

Britain’s Lone’er Kavanagh shocks former champion Brandon Moreno after three weeks of preparation

Britain’s Lone’er Kavanagh earned the biggest win of his career by upsetting former UFC flyweight champion Brandon Moreno in Mexico City, despite having only three weeks to prepare.

Maika Sivo scores four tries as Leeds Rhinos rout Hull KR in Las Vegas

Maika Sivo scored four tries as Leeds Rhinos overwhelmed Hull KR 58-6 in Las Vegas.

Ospreys coach says removing WRU chairman could change the club’s future

Ospreys coach Mark Jones says the Welsh Rugby Union chairman’s potential removal could be a turning point, arguing that the upcoming extraordinary general meeting may be decisive in safeguarding the Ospreys’ future.

Global reactions to US and Israeli strikes on Iran

International leaders are responding to U.S. and Israeli strikes on several Iranian cities, along with Iran’s retaliatory strikes.

Lawmakers and world leaders respond to Khamenei’s death after strikes on Iran

Following reports that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei died Saturday after joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran, reactions from lawmakers and international leaders split sharply. Some praised the outcome, while others condemned the Trump administration, arguing the strikes were illegal. Rep. Yassamin Ansari (D-Ariz.), the only Iranian American member of Congress, described Khamenei as the “epitome of evil.”

US and Israel launch new strikes near Iran’s nuclear sites

The U.S. and Israel carried out a new round of strikes on Iranian cities near key nuclear-related locations, with Israel saying it hit more than 30 targets, including air defences, missile launchers, and command centres, and U.S. Central Command confirming participation. Explosions were reported in Tehran as well as in Bushehr and Qom, which are close to major nuclear facilities, though the extent of any damage or casualties is unclear. The escalation follows Iranian state media’s announcement that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been killed, after which Iran’s Revolutionary Guard threatened imminent attacks on Israel and U.S. bases. Iran had already launched retaliatory strikes that reportedly killed one person in Tel Aviv and injured others.

At a glance: U.S.-Israel strikes on Iran

The United States and Israel have launched joint attacks on Iran, prompting Iranian retaliatory strikes on Israel and on U.S. military bases in the region. Iranian state media reports that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed early Saturday at his office, with satellite imagery showing significant damage at the Leadership House compound in Tehran. Iranian authorities also say a girls’ elementary school in Minab in southern Iran was hit, killing more than 100 children, and Iran’s UN ambassador accused the U.S. and Israel of deliberately targeting civilian infrastructure.

Delaware Valley Police Increase Security After U.S. Strikes on Iran

Law enforcement agencies across the Delaware Valley are increasing security at religious and cultural sites after the U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran, although officials say there is no credible threat to the region.

U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran reportedly kill Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

Iran is reported to be without its supreme leader of 36 years, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, after joint U.S. and Israeli strikes on Saturday allegedly killed him and hit military command posts and missile sites across the country. President Trump announced the operation at about 2:30 a.m. EST in a video posted on Truth Social.

Iranian Americans in Philadelphia respond to U.S. strikes on Iran

Iranian Americans in Philadelphia are closely watching U.S. strikes on Iran and Israel’s attacks, expressing a mix of hope, fear, and worry for loved ones in the country. Marjam Vafa of the group Philly Iranians said some see the moment as a potential opening against Iran’s leadership but fear more suffering for ordinary people. Iran scholar Hussein Banai said the U.S. effort is shifting from targeting nuclear capabilities toward regime change, raising questions about what would follow and whether the U.S. would support an orderly transition. Meanwhile, protesters at City Hall rallied against war, and Philly Iranians plan to participate in a Sunday march for Ukraine.

Trump’s Decision to Strike Iran Deepens Political Divisions

President Trump’s decision to carry out strikes against Iran has injected a new and unpredictable issue into U.S. politics as the midterm elections begin, forcing both parties to navigate a volatile conflict. Republicans have largely framed the strikes as a necessary move against a dangerous authoritarian adversary, while Democrats have warned they could escalate into a prolonged military campaign and further destabilize the region.

Philadelphia Flower Show Opens to the Public Through March 8

The PHS Philadelphia Flower Show is now open through March 8, showcasing major floral, garden, and landscape displays from top designers while supporting its role as the nation’s largest and longest-running horticultural fundraiser.

Trump Claims Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Has Died

President Donald Trump said Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s 86-year-old supreme leader, was killed during a U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran on Saturday.

Why More General Practitioners Are Choosing to Work Outside the NHS

Growing demand is increasing pressure on the NHS, leading more GPs and patients to turn to private healthcare.

Protesters in Major U.S. Cities Condemn U.S. Strikes on Iran

Protesters gathered in cities across the United States on Saturday to oppose President Donald Trump’s attack on Iran.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei Reported Killed After 36 Years in Power, U.S. Says

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader for 36 years, was reported killed in U.S. and Israeli airstrikes, according to U.S. President Donald Trump, though Iran did not immediately confirm his death. Khamenei rose from revolutionary cleric and former president to become supreme leader in 1989, expanding the office’s power and deepening the state’s role in domestic repression and regional proxy conflicts. His rule was marked by harsh crackdowns on dissent, including deadly protests in late 2025 to early 2026, and by growing public disillusionment, with many Iranians expected to view his legacy as one of regime weakness rather than reverence.

Fugitive Charged in 1996 Killing of 7-Year-Old After DNA Evidence Links Him to Cold Case, Authorities Say

Authorities say Robert Scott Froberg has been charged with kidnapping resulting in death in the 1996 abduction and killing of 7-year-old Morgan Jade Violi in Bowling Green, Kentucky, after new DNA testing linked him to evidence collected decades ago. Investigators traced a DNA profile from a hair strand connected to the case, and prosecutors said Froberg—who had escaped from an Alabama prison and was on the run at the time—admitted this week to taking Violi in a stolen van and causing her death in Tennessee before leaving her body in the woods. Froberg, already incarcerated, could face life in prison or the death penalty if convicted.

Trump Calls Starmer as the US and Europe Split Over Strikes on Iran

Donald Trump spoke with UK Labour leader Keir Starmer as the U.S. and Europe take different positions on Israeli and U.S. strikes on Iran. The UK says it neither took part in nor endorsed the attacks.

76ers rookie Johni Broome has knee surgery for a torn right meniscus

Sixers rookie Johni Broome underwent knee surgery to repair a torn right meniscus. If the injury ends his rookie season, he will have played just 55 minutes and gone 4-for-24 from the field in the NBA.

Israeli officials claim Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has died; U.S. and Iran have not confirmed

Israeli officials told The Associated Press that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has died, but neither the United States nor Iran has issued immediate confirmation. If true, the death of the Islamic Republic’s second supreme leader—reportedly without a designated successor—could create major uncertainty about Iran’s political future.

Liverpool’s Set-Piece Strength Keeps Champions League Hopes Alive

Liverpool strengthened their push for a Champions League place with a 5–2 win over West Ham, building a first-half lead with three set-piece goals and maintaining momentum for a strong finish to the season.

U.S. Threatens to Label Anthropic a National Security Supply-Chain Risk as OpenAI Signs New Defense Department Deal

The U.S. government ordered federal agencies to immediately stop using Anthropic’s AI after contract talks broke down over Anthropic’s requested bans on mass domestic surveillance and fully autonomous weapons. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth then said he would seek to designate Anthropic a national-security “supply-chain risk,” potentially barring military contractors and partners from doing business with the company—an unusually severe step historically aimed at foreign adversaries. Anthropic said it will not change its stance, plans to challenge any designation in court, and argues the Pentagon lacks authority to enforce the broad restrictions described. Meanwhile, OpenAI announced a new agreement to deploy its models on classified Defense Department networks, saying it preserves its own limits on domestic mass surveillance, requires human responsibility for the use of force, and includes technical safeguards.

Police: Woman allegedly threatened boyfriend with three knives after he refused to give her his phone

Terriana Johnson was arrested in Waco, Texas, and charged with aggravated assault after police say she confronted her boyfriend while he was showering, then returned from the kitchen holding three knives and threatened to cut him if he did not hand over his phone. Authorities say he tried to shield himself with bed sheets but was cut on the left arm before fleeing to a neighbor’s home, prompting a police response. Johnson allegedly claimed her boyfriend took her phone and pushed her down, though officers reported no visible injuries; she later said she had scissors to cut the sheets. She was booked into the McLennan County Jail and held on a $10,000 bond.

U.S. and Israel strike Iran; Iran retaliates against U.S. bases and Israel

The United States and Israel carried out attacks on multiple locations in Iran, and Iran responded with retaliatory strikes targeting U.S. bases and Israel.

After Large-Scale Strikes, Iran’s Supreme Leader’s Status Remains Unconfirmed

After large Israeli-U.S. strikes on Tehran, uncertainty persists over whether Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei survived. Satellite imagery reportedly shows heavy damage inside a fortified compound linked to Khamenei, and regional reports suggest senior officials may have been meeting there at the time of the attack. Israeli leaders said there were indications he may be dead but acknowledged they could not confirm the outcome, while Iranian authorities denied any harm to Khamenei and other top officials. Analysts noted that power in Iran is supported by the entrenched “Bayt” network, which could continue functioning even if the supreme leader were removed, though his death would raise immediate succession questions.

Israel says Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been killed

Israeli officials say Khamenei was killed in joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Tehran on Saturday morning, according to multiple media reports.

Newcastle Take a Major Step Back After Defensive Struggles

“Not the sign of a top team” sums up Newcastle’s slide as they sit 12th in the Premier League, having conceded 23 goals since their last clean sheet in any competition.

UK raises security as RAF operates in Middle East

Prime Minister Keir Starmer says UK military aircraft are operating in the Middle East on a defensive mission, and that protection for British bases and personnel has been raised to the highest level.

U.S. and Israel strike Iran, retaliation spreads across region

Israel and the United States carried out strikes at multiple locations across Iran, followed by Iranian retaliatory strikes across the wider region.

Trump defends strikes, consequences loom

BBC correspondents break down President Trump’s remarks on the strikes against Iran, focusing on how he is justifying the decision while acknowledging the risks that could follow.

War Powers fight, lawmakers demand a vote

After the strikes on Iran, members of Congress are pushing to return to Washington and force an immediate vote on a War Powers resolution requiring congressional authorization for military action. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Rep. Thomas Massie argue the Constitution requires lawmakers to go on record, while Armed Services Committee Democrats say they will move to compel a vote when Congress reconvenes. Sen. John Fetterman says he would oppose the resolution and praised Trump’s decision. The White House reportedly briefed the Gang of Eight ahead of the operation.

Iran says senior leadership believed alive after strikes

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that, as far as he knows, Iran’s president and supreme leader are alive following overnight U.S.-Israeli strikes near government compounds. He said the head of the judiciary, the parliament speaker, and other senior officials were also believed to be unharmed.

Allies react unevenly to U.S. strikes on Iran

Allied governments responded with mixed messaging after the U.S. strikes. France’s Emmanuel Macron urged de-escalation and called for urgent U.N. Security Council action and negotiations, while Canada, the U.K., and Australia voiced support for preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and emphasized civilian protection. Saudi Arabia warned of serious consequences and criticized Iranian actions against regional states. The EU described the situation as perilous and stressed sanctions, diplomacy, and adherence to international humanitarian law.

Boebert posts Clinton deposition photo amid Epstein inquiry controversy

Rep. Lauren Boebert posted a photo on X showing former President Bill Clinton smiling during a House Oversight deposition tied to the committee’s investigation into Jeffrey Epstein. The post came a day after Boebert was reprimanded for leaking material related to the inquiry.

Oscars tighten voting rules for 2026

Ahead of the 98th Academy Awards in 2026, Oscar voters who want to cast ballots must comply with a new voting requirement being framed as a straightforward, common-sense change.

Sydney Sweeney drops into Sporting Lisbon match, joins pitch celebration

Sydney Sweeney made a surprise VIP visit to Sporting Lisbon’s Jose Alvalade Stadium as Sporting beat Estoril 3-0. She later went onto the pitch during a casual kickabout, scored, and mimicked Bruno Fernandes’ hands-over-ears celebration, prompting a wave of social media reactions after the club shared footage.

U.S. and Israel Begin Major Military Operations Against Iran

U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States, working with Israel, has launched major combat operations in Iran aimed at the government in Tehran over its nuclear program. Iran responded with missile attacks, and cybersecurity experts warned of possible retaliatory cyber activity.

Oman’s Foreign Minister Criticizes U.S. Strikes on Iran, Warning Against Escalation

Oman Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi said he was dismayed by the U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, arguing they undermined ongoing efforts to prevent a wider conflict. Writing on X, he said “active and serious negotiations” had again been derailed and urged restraint to avoid further escalation.

Welsh rugby club chief says the WRU needs the regions amid uncertainty

The Dragons’ CEO addressed supporters as uncertainty grows over the Welsh Rugby Union’s proposed plan to reduce the number of regions. He argued that the WRU relies on clubs like his and urged clarity on the future.

Bowen: A Dangerous Moment as the US and Israel See an Opportunity

Bowen reports that Israel and the United States see the current period as dangerous, but also as a chance they should not miss. They believe Iran’s leadership is vulnerable amid an economic crisis and the lingering fallout from recent protests.

What is known so far about Iran’s missile attack on Israel

Iran launched a missile barrage toward Israel in retaliation, while explosions were reported across the Gulf region, including in Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

Iran Launches Retaliatory Strikes on Targets Across the Middle East

Iran launched retaliatory strikes on targets across the Middle East. Reports from Bahrain showed large plumes of black smoke rising near the headquarters of the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet in Manama.

Europe Responds to U.S. and Israeli Attacks on Iran as Conflict Spreads in the Region

European leaders reacted as the military operation widened across the region. In a joint statement, the European Commission and the EU Council called developments in Iran “greatly concerning” and reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to regional security and stability.

Rehan Ahmed downplays chances of making England’s T20 World Cup semi-final team

England all-rounder Rehan Ahmed played down his chances of being selected for the T20 World Cup semi-finals, despite playing a crucial role in Friday’s win over New Zealand.

Rumors grow that Olympic figure skater Alysa Liu is dating musician Glaive

Speculation is increasing that American Olympic figure skater Alysa Liu, 20, may be in a relationship with musician Glaive, 21, after a selfie of the pair circulated online. Fans also pointed to social media posts showing what appears to be the same distinctive bag in both of their photos as possible evidence they have been spending time together. The attention comes weeks after Liu said in a January interview that she preferred staying single and focusing on training and friendships.

BBC faces potential legal challenge over coverage of transgender issues and suicide risk

The BBC faces a legal wrangle after the Bayswater Support Group, representing more than 650 families, sent a pre-action letter warning it may take the matter to the High Court unless changes are made within 14 days. The group says BBC programmes, including Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, have dangerously linked gender questioning and suicide risk in ways that could harm vulnerable under-18s and encourage copycat behaviour, citing Samaritans guidance on responsible reporting. The proposed action targets Ofcom, arguing the regulator is taking too narrow a programme-by-programme approach and should investigate possible wider safeguarding failures. Ofcom says it has received the letter and will respond, while the BBC defends its coverage as impartial and says it has improved its handling of trans-related complaints.