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The United States may now deny visa applications from individuals with common health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or obesity under a new directive from President Donald Trump’s administration, which broadens the grounds for medical ineligibility. According to a cable issued Thursday by the State Department and obtained by KFF Health News, consular officers have been instructed to assess a wide range of chronic or high-cost medical conditions — including cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological, and mental health disorders — when determining visa eligibility. The document says the aim is to prevent applicants who could become a “public charge,” or financial burden on the government, from entering the country. Officers are directed to assess whether applicants possess sufficient financial resources to cover medical expenses “over their entire expected lifespan” without relying on public aid. This policy marks a sharp shift from previous standards. Health screenings traditionally focused on infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and ensuring vaccination compliance, but the new directive extends well beyond that scope. Experts told CBS the change grants significant discretion to visa officers — most of whom lack medical training — to make subjective judgments about applicants’ health and financial stability. Charles Wheeler, senior attorney at the Catholic Legal Immigration Network, told CBS that the policy “encourages consular officers to speculate about potential medical costs based on bias or limited knowledge.” He said the directive contradicts the State Department’s own Foreign Affairs Manual, which bars visa denials based on speculative “what if” scenarios. The cable also instructs officials to assess applicants’ dependents, taking into account whether family members’ disabilities or chronic illnesses could affect the applicant’s ability to remain financially independent. Immigration and health experts have criticised the move as part of the Trump administration’s wider effort to restrict immigration, citing policies such as mass deportations, refugee limits, and visa reforms aimed at favouring wealthier, healthier applicants. Sophia Genovese, an immigration lawyer at Georgetown University, told CBS that the guidance “goes well beyond the traditional medical exam” and effectively allows visa officers to deny applications based on “speculative medical costs or conditions that are extremely common worldwide.” Globally, around one in ten people live with diabetes, while cardiovascular diseases are the world’s leading cause of death. Genovese warned the policy could disqualify millions of would-be applicants: “If the US begins treating chronic illness as disqualifying, it raises serious ethical and humanitarian questions about who deserves entry.”  

U.S. airlines began canceling hundreds of flights Thursday due to the Federal Aviation Administration’s order to reduce traffic at the country’s busiest airports starting Friday because of the government shutdown. More than 760 planned Friday flights were cut from airline schedules, according to FlightAware, a website that tracks flight disruptions. That number, already four times higher than Thursday’s daily total, was likely to keep climbing. The 40 airports selected by the FAA span more than two dozen states and include hubs such as Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles and Charlotte, North Carolina, according to a list distributed to the airlines. In some metropolitan areas, including New York, Houston, Chicago and Washington, multiple airports will be impacted. The FAA said in its official order published Thursday evening that the reductions will start at 4% on Friday and ramp up to 10% by Nov. 14. They are to be in effect between 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time and impact all commercial airlines. The decision to reduce service at “high-volume” markets is meant to maintain travel safety as air traffic controllers exhibit signs of strain during the shutdown. It also comes as the Trump administration is ramping up pressure on Democrats in Congress to end the shutdown. “With continued delays and unpredictable staffing shortages, which are driving fatigue, risk is further increasing, and the FAA is concerned with the system’s ability to maintain the current volume of operations,” the order reads. Hours before the reductions went into place, airlines were scrambling to figure out where to cut. American Airlines said it reduced its schedule at the listed airports by 4% from Friday through Monday, about 220 cancellations each day, and would increase from there to the 10% target. The carrier said its international schedule was expected to remain untouched. Passengers with plans for the weekend and beyond waited nervously to see if their flights would take off as scheduled. Some travelers began changing or canceling itineraries preemptively.

Longtime US lawmaker Nancy Pelosi has announced her retirement from Congress, ending a decades-long political career that made her one of the most influential figures in Washington. In a video message on Thursday, the 85-year-old California Democrat said she would not seek re-election when her current term ends in January 2027. Pelosi made history as the first woman to serve as Speaker of the US House of Representatives, leading the Democratic Party in the lower chamber from 2003 to 2023. “As we go forward, my message to the city I love is this: San Francisco, know your power,” Pelosi said in her farewell message.   Source: BBC

The United States will end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for citizens of South Sudan, a program that has allowed them to live and work legally in the US for over a decade to escape ongoing conflict at home, officials announced Thursday. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said the decision will take effect on January 5. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem determined that conditions in South Sudan “no longer meet the TPS statutory requirements” after consulting with other federal agencies. According to the DHS statement, South Sudanese nationals who report their departure through the Customs and Border Protection mobile app could qualify for “a complimentary plane ticket, a $1,000 exit bonus, and possible opportunities for legal reentry in the future.” The decision comes as a major setback for South Sudanese immigrants and refugees still facing instability and humanitarian crises in their homeland. Edmund Yakani, a leading civic activist in South Sudan, criticized the move, suggesting it reflected strained ties between Juba and Washington. He said South Sudan’s refusal to accept a second group of deportees from the US had angered the Trump administration, prompting it to end TPS protections. Earlier this year, at least eight South Sudanese were deported from the US under a program to remove undocumented migrants. The US first granted South Sudan TPS in 2011, following the country’s independence from Sudan, and had renewed it every 18 months since then. The Trump administration has rolled back several similar protections, including those for Venezuelans and Haitians previously covered under President Joe Biden’s policies. South Sudan continues to face severe challenges, including political tension, economic hardship, and widespread hunger. Aid agencies warn that parts of the country are nearing famine conditions, while a fragile 2018 peace deal between President Salva Kiir and his former deputy Riek Machar is showing signs of collapse after Machar’s arrest on treason charges earlier this year.  

Zohran Mamdani’s victory in the New York City mayoral race has sparked hope among Ugandans, showing that young leaders can succeed in politics, even if the success feels distant for those at home. Joel Ssenyonyi, an opposition lawmaker in Kampala, said Mamdani’s win is “a big encouragement,” but added, “we have a long way to get there.” Uganda has been under President Yoweri Museveni’s rule for nearly four decades, with opposition efforts repeatedly blocked. Museveni, seeking reelection in January, has resisted calls to step down, raising concerns about political stability. Mamdani, born in Uganda in 1991, left the country at age five to follow his father, scholar Mahmood Mamdani, to South Africa and later moved to the United States. He retained his Ugandan citizenship even after naturalizing as a U.S. citizen in 2018. His mother, filmmaker Mira Nair, maintains strong ties to Kampala, where the family regularly returns. His father, a Columbia University professor, is a major influence on Mamdani’s political outlook. Mahmood Mamdani has been critical of Museveni, contrasting his rule with that of the late dictator Idi Amin in his 2025 book, Slow Poison. Observers say Zohran follows the family tradition of challenging norms and thinking independently. Retired media executive Robert Kabushenga noted Mamdani’s unconventional approach, calling him “a beacon of hope” for activists and a reminder to give youth meaningful political opportunities. Literature professor Okello Ogwang said Mamdani’s success underscores the importance of investing in young leaders. As a teenager, Mamdani dabbled in music with rap groups Young Cardamom and HAB. He later became a New York assembly member in 2021, after working as a community activist in Queens, helping vulnerable residents facing eviction. His mayoral campaign emphasized progressive policies such as free city buses, free child care, rent freezes for some apartments, and government-run grocery stores funded by taxes on the wealthy. Despite Republican criticism and threats to challenge his citizenship, Mamdani emerged victorious, showing resilience and inspiring others. Kabushenga said Mamdani “breaks new ground” and is willing to pursue initiatives in unfamiliar spaces. Ssenyonyi added that while the achievement may feel far away for Ugandans, it is nonetheless inspiring: “Mamdani is Ugandan-born, like us.”

Newly elected New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani made it clear immediately after his win that he intends to stand up to President Donald Trump, who had threatened to defund the city and even take action against him personally. Speaking at his victory celebration in Brooklyn on Tuesday, Mamdani addressed Trump directly: “Turn the volume up… To get to any of us, you will have to get through all of us.” Born in Uganda and now a naturalized U.S. citizen, Mamdani cast himself as a symbol of resistance. “New York will remain a city of immigrants, powered by immigrants and, as of tonight, led by an immigrant,” he declared. His message highlighted the city’s identity as a diverse, immigrant-driven metropolis. Mamdani, a democratic socialist, won the mayoralty running on progressive policies and a hopeful, optimistic vision, contrasting sharply with Trump’s confrontational approach. Despite Trump’s repeated attacks and threats, including the potential withdrawal of federal funding, Mamdani’s campaign prevailed. Trump had previously labeled Mamdani a communist, warned of severe consequences for the city, and attempted to interfere in the election through intermediaries urging outgoing Mayor Eric Adams to withdraw from the race. The Republican president has consistently targeted Democratic-led cities, often threatening federal action or funding cuts. New York, however, largely avoided the brunt of such measures during Trump’s prior administration, unlike cities such as Los Angeles or Washington, D.C. Yet his warnings and aggressive stance against Mamdani became central talking points for opponents during the campaign. Critics like former Governor Andrew Cuomo argued that Mamdani’s youth and inexperience would make him vulnerable to Trump’s pressure. The National Republican Congressional Committee also criticized Mamdani’s progressive platform, accusing Democrats of embracing far-left policies and endangering public safety. Mamdani’s rise mirrors some elements of Trump’s own early political path, including grassroots momentum, media attention, and bold messaging. However, Mamdani positioned himself as a direct counter to Trump rather than a parallel, emphasizing democratic values, immigrant contributions, and progressive governance. Campaign volunteers and supporters anticipate continued challenges from the president but remain determined to protect the city’s autonomy and progressive agenda. Wacef Chowdhury, a Mamdani campaign volunteer, said, “We know he’s going to try, but we’re ready. We fought back the establishment, and we’re going to do the same to the president.” Mamdani’s victory represents both a political and symbolic statement in Trump’s hometown, setting the stage for a tense relationship between the new mayor and the former president in the months ahead.

President Donald Trump arrived in Miami on Wednesday, marking the anniversary of his reelection victory, to address the American Business Forum where he will highlight his administration’s economic achievements and global investment initiatives. The Republican president is expected to outline his broader economic agenda, focusing on deregulation, energy independence, oil prices and affordability. According to a senior White House official, Trump will emphasize how foreign investments secured during his tenure have benefited U.S. communities. His remarks come as Americans continue to express concern over the rising cost of living and job opportunities. A recent AP Voter Poll across four states found that voters remain uneasy about inflation despite Trump’s promises of economic revival. The speech follows Trump’s recent five-day Asia tour, which included meetings in Malaysia, Japan and South Korea. During the trip, he met Chinese President Xi Jinping to ease trade tensions and announced several Japan-funded energy and technology projects benefiting the U.S. Miami Mayor Francis Suarez praised Trump’s international efforts as “transformational,” calling the business forum a more accessible version of the World Economic Forum in Davos. The event brings together business leaders, policymakers and athletes for discussions on global economic challenges. Miami has become a focal point in Trump’s second term. The city will host next year’s G20 summit at Trump’s Doral golf club, despite criticism over potential conflicts of interest. Trump has maintained that his family business will not profit from the event. Miami is also among the host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which Trump has promoted as a major showcase for the U.S. His administration has made the tournament’s success a top priority. FIFA President Gianni Infantino, a close associate of Trump, is also scheduled to speak at the forum later on Wednesday.  

Pope Leo XIV on Tuesday called for “deep reflection” in the United States regarding the treatment of migrants held in detention, highlighting the impact on people who have lived peacefully in the country for years. Speaking to reporters outside his Castel Gandolfo retreat, the Chicago-born pontiff stressed that the spiritual rights of detained migrants should be respected, and authorities should allow pastoral workers access to them. “Many have been separated from their families. Their spiritual needs must be attended to,” he said. Pope Leo also addressed broader geopolitical issues, including U.S. military strikes on suspected drug traffickers near Venezuela, describing them as actions that “increase tension” and emphasizing the importance of dialogue. On the Middle East, he called the initial phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire “very fragile” and urged parties to ensure the rights of all people. He also noted the complexity of Israeli settler attacks on Palestinians in the West Bank, stressing the need for justice for all communities. Last month, Leo encouraged labor union leaders from Chicago to support immigrants and include minorities in their ranks. Pope Leo is scheduled to meet Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at the Vatican on Thursday and will make his first papal visit to Turkey and Lebanon at the end of November.    

At least seven people were killed when a large UPS cargo plane crashed during takeoff from Louisville’s Muhammad Ali International Airport in Kentucky on Tuesday, sparking a massive fire and causing multiple injuries on the ground, officials said. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear confirmed that 11 people were injured and warned that the number of casualties was likely to rise. “Anybody who has seen the images knows how violent this crash is,” he said, adding that several victims sustained “very significant” injuries. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said UPS Flight 2976, a McDonnell Douglas MD-11, went down around 5:15pm local time (22:15 GMT) shortly after takeoff. The aircraft was reportedly en route to Honolulu, Hawaii. Aerial footage showed a long trail of debris as firefighters battled towering flames and thick black smoke. The plane reportedly slammed into two nearby businesses—a petroleum recycling company and an auto parts supplier—setting off widespread fires. Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg described the crash as “an incredible tragedy” for the community, noting that multiple agencies were responding to the scene. Authorities issued a “shelter-in-place” order for areas within an 8-kilometer (5-mile) radius of the airport. UPS initially said three crew members were aboard but did not confirm casualties. The Associated Press later reported that four of the seven people killed were not on the aircraft. Governor Beshear said the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), assisted by the FAA, will conduct a full investigation into the crash. The airport, home to UPS Worldport—the company’s global air cargo hub and the world’s largest package handling facility—was temporarily closed after the incident. According to Reuters, the accident is expected to disrupt UPS operations and may affect major clients such as Amazon, Walmart, and the United States Postal Service.  With inputs from AL Zazeera

Democrat Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old state lawmaker and self-described democratic socialist, has been elected mayor of New York City, becoming the city’s first Muslim leader and its youngest mayor in decades. Mamdani defeated independent candidate and former Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo, who sought a political comeback four years after resigning amid scandal. His victory marks a generational and ideological shift in city politics, fueled by grassroots organizing and strong support from young and working-class voters. President Donald Trump closely followed the race and repeatedly attacked Mamdani, falsely calling him a communist and threatening to withhold federal funds from New York if he won. Trump endorsed Cuomo on the eve of the election, bypassing Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa. At Mamdani’s victory party, supporters danced to Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” as tenants’ rights activist Joanne Grill declared, “We beat the millionaires and billionaires — little old us, working-class New Yorkers are taking this city back.” At Cuomo’s election night gathering, the mood was somber as guests quietly departed while Billy Joel’s “Uptown Girl” played in the background. Zohran Mamdani defends Muslim identity amid “racist and baseless” attacks Republican Curtis Sliwa conceded the race but warned that he would “mobilize” his supporters if Mamdani pursued socialist policies. “We will become the mayor-elect and his supporters’ worst enemies,” he said to a cheering crowd, accusing “some of the most powerful people in the world” of opposing his campaign. In another closely watched contest, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg secured reelection against Republican Maud Maron and independent Diana Florence. Bragg, who oversaw the hush-money case that led to Trump’s historic conviction, focused his campaign on reducing gun violence, prosecuting hate crimes, and expanding mental health services. Bragg, who avoided mentioning Trump during the campaign, said his office has helped reduce murders and shootings, though his opponents argued he has not been tough enough on crime. As news of Mamdani’s win spread, jubilant supporters waved New York City flags and chanted his name as Bad Bunny tracks blared — a moment marking a new chapter in the city’s political history. Read more: Mamdani's political upset inspires hope among South Asian, Muslim New Yorkers Source: AP