Latest Politics News
US Strikes Devastate Iranian Island, Trump Warns of More Attacks
President Trump stated in an NBC interview that US strikes totally demolished much of an Iranian island and warned of further hits 'just for fun.' Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denied claims of seeking a ceasefire. US and Israeli forces continued bombarding cities like Tehran, Hamadan, and Isfahan over the weekend.
Trump Rejects Ceasefire Talks, Ignores Middle East Allies' Efforts
Reuters reports President Trump ignored allies' attempts to start negotiations to end the Iran war. Iranian FM Araghchi told CBS there is no reason to talk with the US after attacks.
The war enters its third week with ongoing strikes across the Middle East.
Trump Urges Global Coalition for Strait of Hormuz Security
Trump called for countries to send warships to secure the Strait of Hormuz, vital for 20% of world oil, but Japan and Australia declined. He has asked China, UK, France, Japan, South Korea, and others, with possible delay of China trip for commitment.
Iran claims the strait is closed only to US, Israel, and allies.
Allies Hesitant on Naval Support Amid Iran Conflict
Germany, Japan, Australia declined US requests for warships, favoring de-escalation. UK PM Keir Starmer said Britain works on plans like mine-hunting drones but unlikely to send warships and avoids wider war.
Trump spoke with UK and Canada leaders, but no commitments reported.
Iran's New Supreme Leader Vows Revenge, US Doubts His Survival
Newly named Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei promised unrelenting revenge for martyrs. Trump and State Department question if he is alive, offering $10M reward for IRGC leaders info.
Strikes now hit Iranian power infrastructure, police, prisons, and hospitals.
US Deploys 2,200 Marines to Middle East as War Escalates
Trump ordered 2,200 Marines on Navy ships to the region amid ongoing strikes. A KC-135 tanker crash is under investigation.
Oil reserves from IEA stockpiles will flow to Asia immediately, later to US and Europe.
Venezuela Grants US Access to Oil Reserves Under Trump Pressure
Venezuela's interim government led by Delcy Rodriguez agreed to US demands for access to oil and resources. This follows the January overthrow of President Nicolás Maduro.
Regional pressures continue amid US foreign policy shifts.
Cuba Signals Concessions to Trump Amid Oil Blockade Crisis
Cuban leaders in talks with Trump admin, releasing 51 prisoners as goodwill gesture. Havana weakened by oil blockade, may make economic concessions to appease US.
Trump eyes toppling communist rulers after Iran and Venezuela actions.
Drone Attack Targets US Embassy in Baghdad, Kills Iran-Backed Militia
US Embassy in Baghdad hit by drone attack after strikes killed three Kataib Hezbollah members, including a commander. The Iran-backed militia targeted in Baghdad's Green Zone.
Escalation reflects Iran's regional threats amid domestic fears.
Trump Expands Global Gag Rule on Foreign Aid in 2026
The Trump administration massively expanded the global gag rule in January, restricting more aid funds on abortion, gender ideology, and DEI activities. This weaponizes US foreign aid to impose conservative policies worldwide.
Impacts global health and human rights for years.
Oil Prices Spike as Iran War Disrupts Global Markets
War sends oil prices skyrocketing, raising US pump prices amid midterms. Trump admin downplays impact, expecting drop post-conflict.
IEA releases emergency reserves to mitigate shortages.
Iranian Retaliatory Strikes on Israel Fuel Rumors of Netanyahu Death
Iran launched strikes at Israel, sparking rumors PM Netanyahu was killed, denied by his coffee video. Conflict widens rifts with Gulf states and risks broader war.
Aviation disruptions and emergency oil measures considered globally.