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President Donald Trump increasingly appears to be boxed in. U.S. and Iranian negotiators reached a tentative agreement a week ago to extend the ceasefire by 60 days and start a new round of talks on Iran’s nuclear program. Trump, however, has called for unspecified changes, and Iranian officials have shown no public sign of agreeing to the deal. The fighting in Lebanon, where Israeli forces have seized large swaths of the south while saying it targets the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militant group, also challenges efforts to end the Iran war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has demanded that any lasting truce extends to Lebanon. The Trump administration has touted the latest ceasefire agreed to earlier in the week by the Lebanese government and Israel after U.S.-brokered talks in Washington. However, Hezbollah has rejected the agreement. Meanwhile, Iran fired ballistic missiles and drones toward Bahrain and Kuwait that were intercepted early Saturday, Bahrain’s government said, and called on Tehran to halt attacks on Gulf neighbors that test a fragile ceasefire in the Middle East conflict. Iran said that it targeted American military assets in both countries, after the U.S. attacked surveillance facilities on Qeshm Island and near Sirik that Iran said were used to protect borders and “ensure the security of navigation in international waters.” Tehran called the attack a ceasefire violation. Later Saturday, U.S. Central Command said U.S. forces had shot down two Iranian attack drones over the Strait of Hormuz. The latest exchanges came as the Trump administration presses Iran to make a deal to end the war, which has strained the global economy and threatened a hunger crisis in some of the world’s most vulnerable countries.  

The United States military says it struck a commercial cargo vessel trying to force its way through a blockade of Iranian ports, hitting the ship’s engine room with a missile, according to U.S. Central Command. The Gambia-flagged cargo ship ‘Lian Star’reportedly ignored more than 20 warnings from U.S. forces overnight as it attempted to enter an Iranian port, the military said. A U.S. official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the ship was left drifting in the Gulf of Oman and had not been boarded by U.S. forces. The incident marks the latest in a series of enforcement actions, with the U.S. military saying it has now stopped six ships trying to breach the blockade. One vessel was allowed to pass, while more than 100 others have been redirected. The blockade was launched on April 17 in response to tensions in the region after earlier U.S. and Israeli strikes in late February. A fragile ceasefire has been in place since early April, while diplomatic discussions continue over extending it and addressing Iran’s nuclear programme. U.S. officials say the blockade aims to restrict Iran’s shipping activity and limit its access to revenue, adding pressure on an already struggling economy. President Donald Trump met advisers on Friday but has not yet decided on extending the ceasefire agreement and reopening key maritime routes. Iran, meanwhile, says no final agreement has been reached. Despite tensions, commercial shipping continues to pass through the region, though at reduced levels. Iran has insisted it must approve transit through the waterway. Iran’s joint military command warned that any violation of its regulations would put vessels at serious risk, according to a statement carried by state media. It also said foreign military interference could be targeted. Iran has also reportedly imposed high transit fees in some cases, a move critics say violates international maritime norms guaranteeing free navigation. Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan bin Ali Al Thani said his country opposes charging transit fees, though he noted that temporary arrangements linked to operations such as mine-clearing could be negotiated to help restore normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. A U.S. official earlier told The Associated Press that no mines have been discovered or destroyed in the strait so far.

Republicans are becoming less satisfied with President Donald Trump’s handling of the economy compared to earlier this year, but most continue to back him strongly as the war with Iran continues, according to a new AP-NORC poll. The survey shows about 6 in 10 Republicans approve of Trump’s economic performance, down from roughly 8 in 10 in February, before the Iran conflict began. Rising fuel prices linked to the war appear to be a key concern. Overall, only about one-third of US adults approve of Trump’s handling of the economy, a figure largely unchanged in recent months but lower than at the start of his second term. The poll comes as the Iran war pushes up global oil prices and complicates efforts toward a lasting ceasefire. Despite economic worries, Trump’s influence within his party remains strong, highlighted by a recent primary victory for his preferred candidate over Republican critic Rep. Thomas Massie. Many Republicans say higher prices are a temporary cost of the conflict. One respondent, Richard Baumgartner of Las Vegas, said economic pressure is a “necessary side effect” of the war and expects conditions to improve once tensions ease. However, others say the rising cost of living is directly affecting households, particularly fuel expenses. Trump remains deeply unpopular among Democrats and independents, with his overall approval rating at 37%, slightly up from 33% in April. Nearly all Democrats and about 7 in 10 independents disapprove of his performance. The economy continues to be one of Trump’s weaker areas. While it was a key strength during his first term, approval has dropped since his return to office despite repeated promises to lower prices. Immigration, however, remains a stronger issue for Trump. About 45% of Americans approve of his handling of immigration, up from earlier lows this year. Among Republicans, approval is much higher at around 8 in 10. Supporters such as Brenda Theiss, an independent voter in Alabama, said they credit Trump for taking stronger action on border control compared to previous administrations. On foreign policy, including the Iran conflict, Trump’s ratings remain low. Only about one-third of Americans approve of his handling of international affairs, with similar levels of approval for his approach to the war with Iran. Some younger Republican-leaning voters also expressed concern about the cost and impact of the conflict, saying it may be placing too much strain on US resources. The poll suggests that while Trump retains a solid base of Republican support, especially on immigration and party loyalty, economic concerns and foreign policy challenges continue to test his broader appeal.

President Donald Trump’s hardline approach toward Iran is facing a major setback as diplomatic efforts and military pressure fail to shift Tehran’s long-standing positions, while tensions remain high over the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Trump, who often presents himself as a strong dealmaker, has alternated between threats of military action and claims that a breakthrough with Iran is close. His aides have suggested the United States is gaining the upper hand and that a deal is within reach amid fragile ceasefire conditions and rising pressure on Tehran. However, Trump on Monday said he had paused plans for an imminent resumption of strikes after requests from Gulf Arab allies, who said serious negotiations were underway. He added that a potential agreement would benefit the United States and countries across the Middle East. Despite that pause, Trump warned he had instructed military officials to be ready for a “large scale assault” if talks fail, underscoring his repeated pattern of setting deadlines for Iran and then stepping back from immediate action. There is little sign that Iran is ready to meet US demands, which include ending its nuclear programme, scaling back ballistic missile development and cutting support for allied groups in Gaza, Iraq, Lebanon and Yemen. Iranian officials have largely maintained their positions despite economic pressure and internal challenges. The White House defended Trump’s strategy, saying he prioritises diplomacy but will only accept a deal that serves US interests. A spokesperson said the president “holds all the cards” and is keeping all options open to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. A key factor in the standoff is Iran’s influence over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping route. Even amid US pressure, Tehran’s leverage over the waterway has contributed to volatility in global energy markets and higher fuel prices, adding political pressure on Trump domestically. The economic impact has also affected Trump’s standing at home, with recent polling showing weaker approval on economic issues as rising energy costs concern voters ahead of upcoming elections. Analysts say Trump’s pressure strategy, which has worked in other countries, has not produced similar results with Iran. Tehran continues to resist concessions beyond what was discussed in earlier nuclear negotiations during the Obama administration, from which Trump withdrew in 2018, calling it a flawed agreement. Since a fragile ceasefire took effect last month, Trump has repeatedly criticised the pace of negotiations. Iran, meanwhile, has responded by insisting its military remains prepared while diplomacy continues. Experts say both sides appear locked in a stalemate, with neither believing it is close to defeat and both hoping time will strengthen their position. Some analysts note that ongoing pressure in the Strait of Hormuz is increasing costs for both Washington and Tehran while delaying a resolution. Former US officials and policy experts remain divided, with some describing the situation as a deadlock and others arguing that Trump still holds strategic leverage despite market instability and regional concerns.

President Donald Trump has shown growing interest in the government taking ownership stakes in U.S. companies, but his administration stepped back from a possible deal involving Spirit Airlines, which shut down operations on Saturday after failing to reach an agreement. Officials had been considering a plan for the government to invest in the struggling low-cost airline, which has faced rising fuel costs linked to the Iran war. However, talks stalled as the administration weighed whether the deal would bring financial benefits. Trump made clear his position was driven more by potential profit than ideology. “If we can help them, we will, but it has to be a good deal,” he told reporters on Friday, adding that any move must serve U.S. interests first. He did not immediately comment on the airline’s shutdown. The Republican president has increasingly supported the idea of government investment in key industries, a shift from traditional party views that favour minimal state involvement in business. Trump argues such steps are necessary to strengthen economic security and compete with countries like China. He has pointed to investments in major companies, including chipmaker Intel, as examples of how government involvement can generate returns. Trump recently claimed the U.S. made significant profits from its stake in the company. Under his administration, the government has taken or explored stakes in several sectors, including rare earth minerals, lithium, and nuclear energy, while also shaping deals involving major firms such as U.S. Steel and semiconductor companies like Nvidia and AMD. Trump has also maintained government control over mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, saying their value has increased as a result. Supporters say these moves help level the playing field against foreign competitors that receive state backing. Analysts note that China’s strong industrial policies have pushed the U.S. to rethink its approach. However, critics argue Trump’s strategy gives the government too much control over private industry. Tad DeHaven of the Cato Institute said the approach reflects a desire for greater influence over the economy. Others caution that such investments carry risks if not carefully managed. Monica Gorman, a former Biden administration official, said clearer rules are needed to guide when and how the government should invest in businesses. The potential Spirit Airlines deal, estimated at around $500 million, had also faced opposition from some Republican lawmakers. Trump had suggested the government could later sell its stake for profit if market conditions improved. While previous administrations have supported industries through loans and incentives, Trump’s approach has relied more on direct government ownership and executive action, marking a notable shift in U.S. economic policy.

Gulf allies of the United States, led by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, are urging President Donald Trump to continue the war against Iran, saying Tehran has not been sufficiently weakened by the monthlong U.S.-led bombing campaign, according to U.S., Gulf, and Israeli officials. Some regional allies initially complained over the lack of advance notice before the U.S.-Israeli strikes and warned of widespread regional consequences. However, officials from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain have privately told Washington that the military operation should continue until there are major changes in Iranian leadership or behavior. Oil holds above $100 as Wall Street rebounds amid US-Iran strikes Trump has alternated between suggesting Iran is ready to negotiate and threatening further escalation if a deal is not reached. Over 3,000 people have died in the conflict so far, shaking global markets, but Trump has claimed strong support from Gulf partners, including those initially hesitant about the war. While Saudi Arabia and the UAE are pushing for increased military pressure, including a possible ground invasion, Oman and Qatar favor diplomacy. Saudi officials stress that any settlement must neutralize Iran’s nuclear and missile programs, stop its support for proxy groups, and secure the Strait of Hormuz. UAE officials have called for guarantees that Iran will no longer threaten regional security. Iran, meanwhile, insists its attacks target only U.S. forces. Trump continues to highlight Gulf support, praising leaders of Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar for standing with the U.S. despite initial hesitations. Gulf countries host U.S. bases but have not joined offensive operations, partly due to operational risks and limited ties with Israel. Analysts say a major attack on Gulf soil could push them to become active participants.

A US federal judge on Tuesday directed the Trump administration to reinstate operations of Voice of America, which had been largely shut down a year ago, clearing the way for hundreds of employees on administrative leave to resume work. US District Court Judge Royce C. Lamberth instructed the U.S. Agency for Global Media to submit a plan within a week to bring VOA back on air. The broadcaster has been running with minimal staff since President Donald Trump issued an executive order to close it. Earlier, Lamberth ruled that Kari Lake, Trump’s pick to head the agency, lacked the legal authority for her actions involving VOA. In Tuesday’s decision, he criticised the measures taken in response to Trump’s directive, which sidelined 1,042 of the organisation’s 1,147 employees, saying no sound justification had been provided. There was no immediate response from the agency. Lake had earlier opposed the court’s March 7 ruling and indicated plans to appeal. Meanwhile, Trump has nominated Sarah Rogers, currently undersecretary of state for public diplomacy, to lead USAGM, subject to Senate approval. Patsy Widakuswara, VOA’s White House bureau chief and one of the plaintiffs, welcomed the ruling, expressing hope of rebuilding the organisation and restoring trust among its global audience. Founded during World War II, VOA has long provided news to countries with limited press freedom. Before the shutdown order, it broadcast in 49 languages, reaching an estimated 362 million people worldwide.

President Donald Trump on Friday warned that the U.S. collegiate sports system could collapse without immediate cost controls and more revenue for players. Speaking at a White House summit with lawmakers and sports officials, he said he plans to issue an “all-encompassing” executive order within a week, which could prompt a lawsuit revisiting court-approved NIL payments. Trump said the court settlement that created the NIL system had left many schools in financial distress and threatened the broader educational system. “The whole educational system is going to go out of business because of this,” he said, stressing the urgent need to reform college athletics. Trump says he ‘does not care’ if Iran play in World Cup Meeting participants agreed on the need to save the industry from escalating NIL costs and largely supported the SCORE Act, which would provide limited antitrust exemptions for the NCAA and preempt state NIL laws. House Speaker Mike Johnson indicated the bill may now have enough support to pass. Officials also flagged Olympic and women’s sports as particularly at risk, since their funding depends on revenue from football and basketball. U.S. Olympic Committee CEO Sarah Hirshland said economic pressures threaten both men’s and women’s programs, underscoring the need for immediate action.

President Donald Trump said Friday that dealing with the war in Iran was “easy” compared with the complicated challenge of regulating college sports and controlling the rising salaries of football players — a remark he later appeared to reconsider. Trump hosted a roundtable discussion with several sports figures, including former Nick Saban, commissioner Greg Sankey, and Pete Bevacqua. During the meeting, participants spent more than an hour discussing how large payments to top athletes, along with newer developments like the transfer portal, have disrupted college athletics. US looking at potential leaders for Iran: White House Presidents often have to deal with numerous complex issues at the same time. However, the timing of this discussion stood out because the United States and Israel had launched military strikes on Iran just a week earlier. When a reporter began asking about Iran at the end of the event, Trump interrupted, saying the situation there was “an easy problem compared to what we’re doing here.” Another journalist asked about Trump’s decision to dismiss Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem the previous day. Trump responded with frustration, asking reporters to stay focused on the topic of college sports. Later, he acknowledged that the issue might seem minor compared with global conflicts. Nevertheless, he said college athletics mattered greatly to him and that he wanted to resolve its problems if possible. Trump says US evacuating ‘thousands’ from Middle East Trump briefly addressed the Iran situation later, rating U.S. military actions there extremely highly, saying they scored between “12 and 15” on a scale of 1 to 10. College athletics—especially football—remains hugely popular in the United States, but managing the system has become increasingly complicated. Trump has repeatedly criticized the growing salaries athletes receive under the NCAA’s name, image, and likeness (NIL) rules, arguing that the changes have harmed the traditional structure of college sports. According to Trump, major revenue sports such as football are putting pressure on smaller programs and women’s athletics. He also claimed that some universities are paying athletes so much that it could push institutions toward financial trouble. The roundtable followed several hours of private meetings with senior officials, during which Trump likely discussed Iran and other major matters. He later announced he had also met with defense contractors who agreed to expand weapons production. Despite those pressing global concerns, Trump — alongside Secretary of State Marco Rubio and White House chief of staff Susie Wiles — devoted considerable time to the college sports debate. During the meeting, Saban jokingly downplayed his role by saying he was “just a football coach.” Other participants, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Ron DeSantis, expressed their passion for college football and concern about its future. Former Urban Meyer and Randy Levine also contributed to the discussion, though no current college athletes were present. Trump assured attendees he was willing to spend as much time as necessary on the issue. The group also included former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, who once served on the College Football Playoff Selection Committee. Ultimately, Trump urged lawmakers to pass the SCORE Act or similar legislation to impose new regulations on college sports. Critics argue the proposal mainly benefits the National Collegiate Athletic Association and its most powerful programs. When told the bill was unlikely to pass Congress, Trump said he might instead issue an executive order on college sports. “If this doesn’t work, colleges are going to be destroyed,” he warned. It remains unclear how such an order would differ from one he signed in July directing federal authorities to clarify whether college athletes should be classified as university employees. Trump also expressed nostalgia for the system that existed before NIL rules were introduced. At one point he asked whether it might be possible to return to the earlier scholarship-based model, while still allowing athletes to receive smaller forms of compensation.

The US Senate is scheduled to vote Wednesday on a war powers resolution aimed at limiting President Donald Trump’s ability to conduct further military action against Iran without congressional approval. Debate on the measure will begin at 11:00 a.m. local time (16:00 GMT), with the vote planned for 4:00 p.m. (21:00 GMT), reports Al Jazeera. The resolution comes amid growing criticism from lawmakers and public figures over Trump’s recent strikes on Iranian targets, which many say were carried out without proper legislative authorization. Proponents argue the vote is necessary to reassert Congress’s constitutional role in approving military action, while opponents, including most Republican lawmakers, have voiced support for the administration’s decision, citing national security concerns. The resolution would require a two-thirds majority in both chambers to override a presidential veto, making its passage challenging given the narrow Republican majorities. Lawmakers have pledged to use the vote to publicly state their positions on the ongoing conflict and US military engagement in the Middle East. The vote comes as the Trump administration faces scrutiny over its justifications for the strikes, with critics claiming the attacks served strategic interests aligned more with Israel than the United States. Meanwhile, US Central Command (CENTCOM) chief Admiral Brad Cooper reported that nearly 2,000 targets across Iran have been struck since the start of joint US-Israeli operations. The campaign, described by Cooper as the largest US military buildup in the Middle East in a generation, involves more than 50,000 troops, around 200 fighter jets, two aircraft carriers, and bombers. The strikes have reportedly destroyed hundreds of Iran’s ballistic missiles, air defence systems, drones, and 17 naval vessels, including a submarine. Iran has responded with over 500 ballistic missiles and 2,000 drones targeting US and allied forces, though Cooper said Tehran’s offensive capacity is diminishing. The escalating conflict, part of Operation Epic Fury, follows Iranian retaliation against US bases and diplomatic posts after the initial US-Israeli assault. The situation continues to evolve, with civilian casualties mounting and global markets reacting to rising Gulf tensions.