Latest Politics News
Israel Agrees to Direct Peace Talks with Lebanon, No Ceasefire
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has agreed to direct peace talks with Lebanon, but vows to continue attacks in the meantime. This threatens the fragile two-week ceasefire with Iran, as new bombardments undermine the truce.
US-hosted talks between Israel and Lebanon are expected next week in Washington.
Iran Warns US Against Allowing Netanyahu to Derail Ceasefire
Iranian officials cautioned the US not to let Netanyahu's attacks on Lebanon undermine the regional ceasefire diplomacy. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on social media that allowing this could crater the US economy.
High-stakes talks between US, Iran, and Pakistan are set for this weekend.
House Republicans Block Democratic Iran War Powers Resolution
House Republicans rejected a Democratic effort to limit President Trump's ability to wage war in Iran during a pro-forma session. Rep. Glenn Ivey sought unanimous consent for the resolution, but Speaker Chris Smith closed the session without debate.
Most of Congress remains in recess.
Middle East War to Cut Global Growth, World Bank Chief Warns
The ongoing Middle East conflict is expected to cut global growth and deliver cascading economic impacts, according to the World Bank president. The war's effects are rippling through international markets and trade.
No specific growth figures were detailed in updates.
Trump Claims US Will Reopen Strait of Hormuz 'Fairly Soon'
President Trump stated that the US will have the Strait of Hormuz open fairly soon amid regional tensions. This follows disruptions linked to the Iran conflict and broader Middle East war.
Iran has issued demands related to the strait access.
Federal Court Hears Challenge to Trump's Section 122 Global Tariffs
A US Court of International Trade in New York heard arguments against President Trump's 10% global tariffs imposed under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. The tariffs, enacted after Supreme Court rejection of larger IEEPA tariffs, face challenges from states and businesses.
They are set to expire July 24 unless extended by Congress.
Supreme Court Had Struck Down Trump's IEEPA Tariffs in February
The Supreme Court ruled on February 20 that IEEPA did not authorize Trump's sweeping emergency tariffs. Trump then pivoted to temporary Section 122 tariffs up to 15% for 150 days.
Judges questioned the meaning of 'balance-of-payments deficits' from 1974 legislation.
Canadian Liberal Party Nears Majority After Conservative Defection
Federal Liberals are close to a majority government following MP Marilyn Gladu's defection from Conservatives. Gladu, despite a socially conservative past conflicting with Liberal values, was welcomed by PM Mark Carney.
This bolsters Liberals ahead of their Montreal convention.
Pressure Mounts on Canadian Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre
Conservative defections, including Gladu's, are eroding the caucus and pressuring leader Pierre Poilievre's future. The party has publicly backed Poilievre, who defends his record amid calls for reflection.
Caucus can vote to remove him, but no action yet.
US Envoys Including Jared Kushner Prepare for Iran Negotiations
US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are set to join Iran talks, previously derailed by US-Israel bombings. Negotiations aim to stabilize the region post-ceasefire.
Iran's warnings highlight risks to diplomacy from ongoing Lebanon strikes.
Oregon AG Pushes for Quick Ruling on Trump's Tariffs
Attorney General Dan Rayfield of Oregon, challenging the tariffs, seeks a speedy court decision to halt unlawful actions hurting Americans. The trade court may defer to the president given the tariffs' temporary nature until July.
A prior ruling struck down IEEPA tariffs swiftly.