New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has said he does not support an upcoming event in Manhattan featuring Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, amid controversy over the Hindu nationalist organisation’s presence in the city.

Bhagwat is scheduled to address an event at Madison Square Garden on August 29. The gathering is being promoted as the “Universal Oneness Celebration” by American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue and is intended to mark shared heritage and interfaith unity within the Hindu American community. 

Mamdani said he opposed the event but questioned whether New York City authorities had the legal power to cancel a privately organised gathering. “I don’t support the rally,” he said, while adding that he was unsure whether the city had jurisdiction to stop it.

Mamdani Raises Concerns Over RSS

The mayor criticised what he described as an exclusionary political vision associated with the RSS. He contrasted it with the idea of India that he said he grew up with — a pluralistic and secular republic in which every Indian has a sense of belonging. (Internazionale)

The RSS is widely described as the ideological parent of India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The organisation, however, describes itself as a cultural movement focused on uniting Hindus and rejects allegations that it promotes intolerance towards minorities. (Reuters)

Bhagwat Event on August 29

Bhagwat's appearance is scheduled for Saturday, August 29, at Madison Square Garden in Manhattan. The event has attracted opposition from several local and interfaith organisations, which have raised concerns about the RSS leader's visit and the organisation's ideology.

The controversy comes as the RSS marks its centenary, with Bhagwat undertaking engagements outside India as part of the organisation's anniversary-related activities.

Debate Over City’s Authority

Mamdani's comments also highlighted a distinction between opposing the event politically and having the authority to prevent it from taking place.

Because the gathering is a private event, Mamdani said he was uncertain whether the city could legally cancel it. His remarks therefore amount to opposition to the event rather than an announcement that City Hall intends to block the programme. 

The issue has triggered a wider debate among community and interfaith groups in New York over religious freedom, political expression and the presence of Hindu nationalist organisations in the United States.

Community Groups Voice Opposition

Several organisations have also spoken out against the planned appearance. Interfaith groups have called on Mamdani to take a stronger position against Bhagwat's visit, while activists have raised concerns about the RSS and its record on minorities.

The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom has previously criticised the RSS and accused it of contributing to intolerance towards religious minorities. The RSS disputes such characterisations. (Reuters)

The event is expected to draw attention in New York as Bhagwat's scheduled appearance approaches, with the dispute putting questions of free expression, religious identity and political ideology at the centre of the debate.

The US vice president has defended the proposed fee on new cap-subject H-1B petitions as the Trump administration seeks to push companies towards hiring and training domestic workers.

US Vice President JD Vance has backed the Trump administration's proposal to impose a $103,265 fee on new H-1B visa petitions, arguing that American companies should hire and train workers in the United States rather than rely on foreign skilled professionals.

Vance endorsed the proposal in a post on X after the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) unveiled the new fee plan. “If an American corporation needs workers, it should hire and train Americans,” he said. 

The proposed charge would apply to H-1B petitions subject to the annual cap, including petitions eligible for the advanced-degree exemption. It would be payable when the petition is filed and would come on top of other applicable H-1B fees. The proposal is not yet final and will go through a public-comment process. 

What The New Fee Means

The proposed $103,265 charge represents a dramatic increase in the cost of sponsoring an H-1B worker. DHS estimates that the fee could generate about $8.8 billion annually, based on roughly 85,000 cap-subject petitions. 

The H-1B programme allows US employers to hire foreign professionals in specialised occupations, including technology, engineering, research and other highly skilled fields.

The annual statutory cap is 85,000 new H-1B visas — 65,000 under the regular quota and another 20,000 reserved for applicants with advanced degrees from US institutions. 

Some H-1B Petitions Exempt

The proposed fee would not apply universally to the H-1B programme. Petitions that are exempt from the annual cap, including certain applications filed by higher education institutions and nonprofit or government research organisations, would not be subject to the new charge. 

That distinction is important because the proposal is aimed specifically at cap-subject petitions, rather than every H-1B worker already in the United States.

Indians Could Face Major Impact

The proposal has particular significance for Indian professionals because Indian nationals account for the largest share of H-1B beneficiaries.

According to data cited by the Times of India, Indians received about 2.83 lakh H-1B visas in fiscal 2025, including extensions, representing around 70% of the total. For initial employment, Indian nationals received nearly 58,000 visas. 

A substantial increase in employer costs could therefore affect hiring decisions involving Indian technology professionals and other skilled workers. Companies could have to weigh the additional government fee against the cost of recruiting and training workers domestically.

Trump Administration's Wider Push

The proposal is part of a broader Trump administration effort to reshape employment-based immigration and encourage employers to prioritise American workers.

The administration has argued that the H-1B programme can be misused and that companies should invest more in domestic workers. Vance's comments reinforce that position by linking the higher immigration cost directly to the administration's “hire and train Americans” approach. 

At the same time, technology companies and immigration advocates have warned that substantially higher costs could make it harder for US businesses to recruit specialised talent, particularly when domestic candidates with the required skills are not readily available.

Legal Battle Could Continue

The latest proposal follows a legal setback for the administration's earlier attempt to impose a $100,000 H-1B fee. A federal judge in Massachusetts struck down that measure in June, ruling that the president lacked the authority to impose what the court considered a tax on H-1B petitions. 

The new $103,265 fee is being pursued through a formal rulemaking process and is based on a different legal mechanism. The proposal will be open for public comments for 30 days, meaning it is not yet an operative final rule. 

For Indian professionals and US employers, the immediate impact will therefore depend on whether the proposed fee survives the rulemaking process and any subsequent legal challenges.

The US Secret Service is reviewing a video aired by an Iranian state broadcaster that appears to threaten Barron Trump, the youngest son of US President Donald Trump, according to US media reports. The footage reportedly identifies Barron by name and references locations where he is publicly known to spend time.

The nearly three-minute video, broadcast by Iran’s state-run Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), reportedly opened with an English-language graphic asking, “Where to kill Barron Trump?” The broadcast has prompted scrutiny from US security officials, although the Secret Service has not publicly disclosed whether it has determined that the footage represents a credible or specific threat.

A Secret Service spokesperson said the agency was aware of the video and was examining material that could be perceived as a threat against people under its protection. The agency did not provide further details, citing operational security concerns.

Secret Service examining broadcast

Nate Herring, a Secret Service spokesperson, told CNN that the agency investigates anything that can be perceived as a threat toward its protectees. He declined to discuss specific protective intelligence or operational measures.

The video reportedly forms part of a broader series of material directed at Trump and members of his family. A US federal law enforcement source cited by CNN said some earlier videos had allegedly included references to movements and locations connected to members of the presidential family.

The latest broadcast has drawn particular attention because Barron Trump, who is 20, has generally maintained a lower public profile than other members of the Trump family.

Iran-linked media under scrutiny

IRIB is Iran’s state broadcaster and is regarded as closely aligned with the country's political establishment. Its head is appointed by Iran’s Supreme Leader.

The reported broadcast comes amid continued tensions between Washington and Tehran following the escalation of the US-Israeli conflict with Iran earlier this year. Relations between the two countries have remained deeply strained, with threats and hostile rhetoric appearing in state-aligned and hardline media.

US authorities have previously expressed concerns about potential threats against President Trump linked to Iran. Those concerns date back to the 2020 US drone strike that killed Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani in Baghdad.

Trump has faced security concerns

Trump has previously spoken publicly about threats against his life. US authorities have also taken extensive security precautions around his movements amid concerns about possible attacks.

According to reports cited by CNN, one earlier threat was considered sufficiently serious for officials to alter arrangements surrounding Trump's travel. The president was reportedly moved through an alternative security arrangement during a trip to Turkey after intelligence raised concerns about a possible attack.

The US government has repeatedly warned about the possibility of Iranian retaliation against Trump and other American officials following the killing of Soleimani.

Family members also targeted

The reported video involving Barron follows previous threats and hostile messaging directed at other members of Trump's family.

Hardline Iranian media have previously focused on First Lady Melania Trump, while threats against the president himself have appeared repeatedly in Iranian political messaging.

The latest incident is notable because Barron appears to have been directly identified in the reported broadcast. Security officials are now assessing the material as part of the broader threat environment surrounding the Trump family.

For now, the Secret Service has not said whether the video has resulted in any changes to Barron Trump's security arrangements. The agency's review will determine how seriously the material should be treated and whether additional protective measures are necessary.

A fresh diplomatic dispute has emerged between the United States and Israel after US Ambassador to Turkey and Special Envoy to Syria Tom Barrack accused Israel of carrying out a military strike in Syria without providing advance warning to Washington. Barrack described the attack as an “unnecessary escalation” and suggested that the strike on the Abu Duhur military base in northern Syria may have been intended to provoke Turkey.

The comments, reported by Al Jazeera, have added another layer of tension to an already complicated situation involving Israel, Turkey, Syria and the United States. Barrack said the Israeli operation could have risked triggering a confrontation with Turkey, which maintains significant influence and military interests in Syria. He warned that such actions could further destabilise the region at a time when Washington is attempting to promote dialogue and prevent a wider conflict.

US envoy raises concern

Barrack said Israel did not provide the expected warning before carrying out the strike this week. According to his assessment, the operation against the Abu Duhur military base could have been aimed at “baiting the Turks” and creating conditions for a possible confrontation.

The remarks are particularly significant because Turkey has expanded its involvement in Syria and has repeatedly expressed concern over Israeli military operations in the country. Ankara has described some of Israel’s recent actions as reckless and has opposed moves that could further complicate Syria’s security situation.

Israel disputes US claim

Israel has rejected Barrack’s account. Defence Minister Israel Katz said Israel had shared intelligence information with authorised US officials before the strike.

Katz strongly criticised the US envoy’s comments, arguing that they contained inaccuracies and did not reflect the position of President Donald Trump’s administration. The Israeli government has also maintained that its military operations in Syria are linked to its security concerns and regional threats.

The disagreement highlights differences within an otherwise close US-Israel relationship over how military activity in Syria should be handled, particularly when Turkish forces and interests are involved.

Turkey’s role in Syria

Turkey has become an important regional player in Syria, particularly since the fall of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. Ankara has maintained close political and security links with Syria and continues to monitor developments along its southern border.

Israel, meanwhile, has stepped up military operations in Syria and has expanded its military presence in parts of the country’s south. The situation has increased the possibility of an indirect confrontation between Israel and Turkey, despite efforts by Washington to keep tensions under control.

Golan Heights remains disputed

The latest dispute also comes against the backdrop of the long-running controversy over the Golan Heights. Israel captured the territory from Syria during the 1967 Arab-Israeli War and later annexed it. The annexation is not recognised under international law.

Barrack has previously described the Golan Heights as occupied territory, making him a notable figure within the Trump administration on the issue. His position has also brought him into disagreement with Israel’s established stance on the territory.

US pushes for de-escalation

The United States has been attempting to facilitate dialogue between Syria and Israel and prevent further military escalation. Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa has repeatedly said Damascus does not want a direct conflict with Israel.

However, continuing Israeli strikes, Turkey’s growing role in Syria and competing security interests are making the diplomatic situation increasingly difficult to manage. Barrack’s latest remarks could further expose the differences among the countries involved over how Syria’s fragile security environment should be handled.

The immediate focus will now be on whether Washington can contain the disagreement and prevent further Israeli-Turkish tensions from spilling into a broader regional confrontation.

US Senator Jon Ossoff has questioned the use of taxpayer-funded resources for travel involving President Donald Trump’s entourage, focusing particular attention on White House aide Natalie Harp.

The Democratic senator from Georgia cited travel records, flight information and spending documents while alleging that some arrangements may have blurred the distinction between official presidential duties and activities connected to Trump’s political operation.

Ossoff Questions Travel Spending

Speaking at a press conference on Capitol Hill, Ossoff raised questions about the expenses incurred by White House staff members accompanying Trump on domestic and international trips.

He pointed to records that he said showed Harp travelling with the president on multiple occasions. The senator also referred to hotel invoices and other spending documents that he said reflected thousands of dollars in expenses related to staff travel.

Ossoff argued that taxpayers should not be responsible for costs that are unrelated to legitimate government business, particularly as Americans continue to deal with higher household expenses.

The senator called for closer scrutiny of how executive branch travel budgets are being used.

Who Is Natalie Harp?

Natalie Harp is a White House aide who has frequently accompanied Trump during his presidency. Before joining the administration, she worked as a television host at One America News Network.

Harp has become a visible member of Trump's inner circle and is known for assisting the president with information and communications-related tasks.

She has reportedly been involved in bringing Trump printed news reports, social media posts and other material for his review.

Although she does not hold a Cabinet-level position, her frequent presence alongside the president has made her a recognisable figure within the White House operation.

Questions Over Official Duties

Ossoff's criticism centres on whether all travel associated with members of Trump's entourage is directly connected to official government responsibilities.

The senator said the documents he presented warrant further examination to determine whether public funds were used appropriately.

The issue also raises broader questions about the rules governing presidential travel. When the president travels, government personnel may accompany him for security, communications, administrative and other official responsibilities. Determining whether particular expenses comply with federal rules requires examination of the purpose and circumstances of each trip.

White House Rejects Allegations

The White House has rejected Ossoff's accusations and characterised them as partisan criticism.

A White House spokesperson said staff travel is conducted in accordance with federal regulations and ethics requirements. The administration also defended Harp's presence in Trump's travel entourage, saying her communications and administrative responsibilities form part of the support provided to the president.

The White House has therefore disputed the suggestion that the travel arrangements identified by Ossoff necessarily represent inappropriate spending.

Democrats Seek Greater Transparency

Ossoff's office has called for greater transparency surrounding presidential travel expenses, arguing that public records should make it possible to determine whether taxpayer-funded resources are being used for official purposes.

Some Democratic lawmakers have also supported calls for congressional scrutiny of presidential travel and related expenses.

The issue comes as Congress faces continuing disputes over federal spending and budget priorities, adding another point of tension between the Trump administration and congressional Democrats.

Congressional Review Possible

The controversy is currently centred on competing interpretations of the travel records and the responsibilities of White House personnel accompanying Trump.

A formal congressional review could examine the expenses, travel schedules and applicable federal rules to determine whether any regulations were breached.

Until such a review takes place, the central dispute remains whether the travel arrangements involving Harp and other staff members represent legitimate presidential support operations or an inappropriate use of taxpayer-funded resources.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended warm Independence Day wishes to the people of India on Saturday as the country celebrated its 80th Independence Day, while highlighting the growing strategic partnership between India and the United States.

In his message, Rubio praised the close relationship between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying their personal ties have contributed to strengthening bilateral relations.

Rubio Praises India-US Partnership

“On behalf of the United States of America, I extend warm congratulations to the people of India on their Independence Day,” Rubio said in his statement.

He said the relationship between the two countries was “stronger than ever”, attributing part of the momentum to the personal relationship between Trump and Modi.

Rubio highlighted cooperation between Washington and New Delhi across several key sectors, including defence, energy security, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, space cooperation and commerce.

According to the US Secretary of State, cooperation in these areas is contributing to greater security and prosperity for both countries as well as the wider Indian Ocean region.

Focus on Strategic Sectors

The reference to critical minerals, AI, space and energy security comes as India and the US continue to expand their cooperation beyond traditional defence and trade ties.

Both countries have increasingly focused on emerging technologies and strategic supply chains, particularly in areas considered important for long-term economic and national security.

Rubio said the partnership would continue to evolve and remain focused on the future.

People-to-People Ties Highlighted

Rubio also emphasised the close people-to-people relationship between India and the United States.

He described the friendship and family ties between citizens of the two countries as the foundation of a partnership that is “innovative, resilient, and forward-looking.”

He added that Washington looked forward to the future that India and the US would build together.

US States Celebrate ‘India Day’

Rubio's message was accompanied by Independence Day greetings from several US states.

A number of states have marked August 15 as ‘India Day’ to recognise India's Independence Day and acknowledge the contribution of the Indian-American community.

US senators, members of Congress, state lawmakers and city councils also extended greetings to Indians, highlighting the growing role of the Indian diaspora in American society.

The messages reflected the strong community-level connections that have developed alongside the broader strategic partnership between the two countries.

PM Modi Remembers Freedom Fighters

Earlier on Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also greeted Indians on Independence Day.

In a post on X, Modi remembered the freedom fighters whose courage and sacrifice led to the end of colonial rule.

He said their dreams continue to inspire the country as India works towards building a Viksit Bharat.

Modi also highlighted India's progress across different sectors and credited the country's population for driving its development.

Bilateral Ties Enter New Phase

The latest messages from Washington and New Delhi come at a time when India-US relations encompass a wide range of strategic and economic issues.

Defence cooperation remains an important pillar, while emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, space technology, critical minerals and energy security are gaining greater importance.

Rubio's Independence Day message therefore carries significance beyond a ceremonial greeting, reflecting Washington's emphasis on the broader strategic relationship with New Delhi.

His remarks also underline the importance both governments place on the India-US partnership as the two countries look to expand cooperation in technology, commerce, security and other areas in the years ahead.

US President Donald Trump has announced new tariffs of up to 100 per cent on imported unmanned drones and related components, citing national security concerns and the need to reduce America's dependence on foreign supply chains.

The move is expected to put additional pressure on Chinese drone manufacturers, which have maintained a dominant position in the US commercial drone market. The White House said the new tariff structure is intended to encourage domestic manufacturing and strengthen the country's supply chain for unmanned aircraft systems.

Tariffs Linked to Drone Specifications

Under the new structure, the highest tariff will apply to drones considered particularly sensitive from a national security perspective.

Drones weighing more than 25 kilograms or those equipped with thermal imaging capabilities will face a 100 per cent tariff.

Smaller drones with a take-off weight of 25 kilograms or less will face a 25 per cent tariff, according to the details released by the US administration.

The different rates indicate that Washington is seeking to distinguish between smaller commercial drones and systems that could have greater surveillance, security or military applications.

New Rules to Take Effect in Stages

The tariff measures will not take effect for all categories at the same time.

Most of the new duties are expected to become effective 21 days after the order is signed. For certain drone components that are not classified as highly sensitive, the tariffs will take effect after 180 days.

There are also provisions for specific products and components that receive exemptions from the Federal Communications Commission's covered list under the conditions outlined by the administration. Such products will also be subject to the 180-day timeline under the stated exemption framework.

Allied Countries Also Face Duties

The new measures are not limited to imports from countries viewed by Washington as strategic competitors.

Drones and components imported from the European Union, Japan, Liechtenstein, South Korea, Switzerland and Taiwan will face a 15 per cent tariff, according to the announced structure.

Imports from the United Kingdom will face a 10 per cent duty, provided the products meet the specified origin requirements for their hardware, software and technology.

The inclusion of allied trading partners highlights Washington's broader effort to reorganise the drone supply chain rather than simply targeting Chinese manufacturers.

China Faces Greater Pressure

The announcement comes amid growing US scrutiny of Chinese drone technology.

Chinese manufacturer DJI, headquartered in Shenzhen, has held a dominant position in the US commercial drone market, accounting for a substantial share of sales in recent years.

The United States has already taken steps to restrict the use and approval of certain foreign-made communications and drone technologies. The latest tariff move could further increase costs for American companies and government agencies that currently rely on imported equipment.

China has also taken measures affecting drone exports and has responded to US trade restrictions with its own controls and sanctions against American entities.

Ukraine War Highlights Drone Risks

The increasing military use of drones has added another dimension to the debate over unmanned aircraft technology.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict has demonstrated how drones can be used for surveillance, battlefield reconnaissance, targeting and attacks. Their relatively low cost and ability to operate without putting pilots directly at risk have made them an increasingly important part of modern warfare.

The Trump administration has consequently linked the availability and security of unmanned aircraft systems to broader national and economic security considerations.

Industry Could Face Higher Costs

Technology and US-China trade experts have warned that the measures could significantly reshape the commercial drone market.

American commercial operators and government agencies that depend on foreign-made systems may have to look for suppliers based in the US or allied countries. That transition could involve higher procurement costs and require changes to existing equipment and supply chains.

The policy could therefore have consequences beyond Chinese manufacturers, particularly for businesses that use drones for surveying, infrastructure inspection, agriculture, photography, logistics and other commercial activities.

What Are Unmanned Aircraft Systems?

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, are aircraft that operate without a human pilot sitting inside the aircraft.

They can be remotely controlled or operate using automated software. Drones are now widely used for photography, mapping, agriculture, deliveries, infrastructure monitoring and emergency response, while military versions are used for surveillance, reconnaissance and combat operations.

The new US tariff policy reflects the growing strategic importance of the technology and Washington's attempt to build a more secure domestic and allied supply chain for unmanned aircraft systems.

The United States has enough naval resources to maintain its blockade of Iran indefinitely, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Thursday, signalling that Washington is prepared to continue military and economic pressure on Tehran as efforts to end the war remain stalled.

Hegseth said the US Navy could sustain the operation by rotating ships in and out of the region as required, suggesting that Washington does not currently face an immediate shortage of naval assets for the blockade.

“Indefinitely the United States Navy can maintain a blockade like that because we’ll rotate ships in and out,” Hegseth told reporters in Panama.

Hegseth Defends Blockade

Hegseth made the remarks after speaking with the crew of the USS Gridley, a guided-missile destroyer that had previously operated in the Middle East.

His comments underline the administration's intention to maintain pressure on Iran while negotiations aimed at ending the conflict remain unresolved.

The blockade has become a central component of the US strategy against Tehran, particularly because of the importance of the Strait of Hormuz to global energy markets.

Trump Claims Hormuz Control

Hegseth's remarks came a day after President Donald Trump claimed that the United States had complete control over the strategically important waterway.

Trump said on his Truth Social platform that the US naval blockade had become a “wall of steel” and asserted that Iran had little ability to challenge the American presence.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important energy transit routes. Before the conflict, roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments passed through the waterway.

Conflict Disrupts Energy Routes

The war began with US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, according to the account provided by US officials and the source material.

Iran subsequently moved to restrict access through the Strait of Hormuz, severely disrupting commercial shipping and energy flows.

The United States then established a naval blockade targeting Iranian shipping and ports while maintaining that it would protect freedom of navigation for vessels travelling to and from non-Iranian ports.

Washington has deployed tens of thousands of military personnel to the wider Middle East since the conflict began, including more than 20 warships.

Commercial Ships Intercepted

The US military has said it has redirected more than 55 commercial vessels attempting to breach the blockade.

According to US officials, three vessels have been disabled and two others boarded since the blockade began.

The confrontation has also involved direct military action against individual ships.

Earlier this week, a US Navy MH-60 helicopter fired two Hellfire missiles at the engine room of a Panama-flagged vessel after the ship allegedly ignored warnings from US forces, according to the US military.

Iran Continues Retaliation

Despite months of US military strikes against Iranian targets, Tehran has continued to challenge Washington's efforts to control the strategic waterway.

US strikes have targeted Iranian leadership and damaged significant parts of the country's military infrastructure, including elements of its navy.

Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks against US allies in the region and has also targeted commercial vessels attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz without Iranian permission.

The continuing confrontation has kept maritime security and energy supplies under pressure.

Pressure Mounts on Trump

The prolonged conflict is also creating political pressure on the Trump administration.

Trump has alternated between warnings of further escalation and statements suggesting that a potential peace agreement could be reached.

At the same time, the administration has so far avoided some of the most escalatory measures, including deploying large numbers of ground troops or carrying out attacks on strategic islands and desalination infrastructure.

Trump is facing pressure to bring the conflict to an end ahead of the November midterm elections, while elevated fuel prices have emerged as a major concern, particularly among voters in rural areas that have traditionally supported him.

For now, Hegseth's comments indicate that Washington is prepared to sustain the naval blockade for as long as necessary, even as diplomatic efforts to end the war remain uncertain.

The Trump administration has identified more than 40 economies, including India, the European Union, Canada, Japan and South Korea, as potential transshipment risks in the movement of Chinese goods into the United States.

A White House report released on Thursday highlighted what Washington describes as “illegal transshipment” — a practice in which Chinese products are routed through a third country before being exported to the US, potentially allowing exporters to avoid or reduce tariffs imposed directly on Chinese goods.

The development could bring greater scrutiny to countries that have become important links in global supply chains as companies seek alternatives to manufacturing and sourcing from China.

India Among Economies Under Scrutiny

The report identified more than 40 economies as having an elevated risk of involvement in illegal transshipment. The list includes India along with the European Union, Mexico, Canada, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea and Vietnam.

US trade adviser Peter Navarro accused China of using third countries to disguise the origin of its exports and circumvent US trade restrictions.

“For years, the great transhipment scam has let Communist China launder its exports through more than 40 countries,” Navarro told reporters.

The White House report, however, indicates that the risks vary from one economy to another. Some countries may have transshipment concerns within otherwise legitimate trade flows, while others have become closely integrated with supply chains linked to China.

Washington Plans AI-Based Checks

The Trump administration is also planning to use artificial intelligence to identify shipments that may have been rerouted through third countries to avoid US tariffs.

Navarro said the White House is working with US Customs and Border Protection on an AI-enabled system that would analyse shipping and trade information.

The proposed system could examine shipping records, cargo routes and historical routing patterns to identify shipments that may have been transshipped before reaching the US.

The move is part of Washington's broader effort to prevent businesses from bypassing tariffs by changing the route or origin of Chinese products.

Supply Chains Shifted After Tariff War

The issue has gained importance as companies have diversified their supply chains away from China.

During Trump's first presidency, Washington and Beijing became involved in a major tariff dispute beginning around 2018. As tariffs increased, several companies started looking for alternative manufacturing and sourcing locations.

Countries such as Vietnam emerged as beneficiaries of this shift, with businesses expanding production and sourcing networks outside China.

The latest US action suggests Washington is now paying closer attention to whether such alternative supply chains are being used to simply reroute Chinese products rather than genuinely shift production.

Potential Impact on Global Trade

The expanded focus on transshipment could increase compliance requirements for exporters and manufacturers operating across international supply chains.

Companies in countries identified as higher-risk could face greater scrutiny from US customs authorities, particularly where products have significant Chinese inputs or pass through multiple countries before entering the American market.

For India and other economies on the list, the issue could become increasingly important as businesses seek to expand exports to the US while maintaining supply-chain links with China.

The administration's proposed AI-based monitoring system could further increase the ability of US authorities to track trade routes and identify unusual shipping patterns.

Trump Administration Tightens Tariff Enforcement

The latest move comes as the Trump administration continues its broader trade policy of imposing tariffs on US trading partners while maintaining additional duties on Chinese imports.

Washington's emphasis on transshipment indicates that simply changing the country through which goods enter the US may not be enough to avoid tariff scrutiny.

The White House is now seeking to determine whether products genuinely originate from a third country or are Chinese goods being rerouted through another economy.

The approach could add another layer of complexity to global trade as companies adjust their supply chains to navigate the Trump administration's tariff policies.

U.S. President Donald Trump has said he secretly switched aircraft in Turkey last month after the U.S. Secret Service directed him to leave Air Force One following a security threat. The unusual move took place after the NATO summit in Ankara and was reportedly linked to concerns over a possible Iranian assassination threat.

Trump made the comments on Tuesday, August 11, as questions continued to emerge over why he was moved from the aircraft that had been publicly identified as carrying him from Turkey to Britain.

Secret aircraft switch in Ankara

According to reports, Trump was initially scheduled to leave Turkey aboard Air Force One. However, shortly after boarding, he reportedly exited the aircraft through a catering truck and was transferred to another military aircraft.

The operation was kept secret, with the White House initially maintaining that Trump was travelling aboard Air Force One.

The unusual transfer was first reported publicly by The Washington Post on August 10, citing unnamed sources familiar with the episode.

Trump later confirmed that the aircraft change had taken place but said the decision was made by the Secret Service and military officials responsible for his security.

Trump says alternate plane was also at risk

Speaking to reporters, Trump said the aircraft he ultimately used may actually have presented a greater security risk because adversaries could have been more likely to target it.

“I think actually the plane that I flew on was at greater risk,” Trump said.

He added that he did not seek extensive details about the threat and generally follows instructions from the Secret Service and military when it comes to his personal security.

Trump said he receives many threats and indicated that the security concern was serious enough for officials to alter his travel arrangements.

Catering truck operation draws attention

The aircraft transfer has attracted considerable attention because of the unusual method used to move the President.

Trump reportedly travelled from Air Force One to the replacement aircraft using a catering truck, apparently as part of an effort to prevent the movement from being detected.

The episode subsequently became the subject of social media memes, with images and jokes portraying Trump as hiding inside the catering vehicle.

Trump, who frequently engages with online memes and has cultivated a strong public image around his personal toughness, appeared to acknowledge the attention while stressing that the decision was made by security officials.

Iran threat concerns during NATO summit

The incident occurred against the backdrop of heightened tensions between the United States and Iran.

Trump had travelled to Ankara for the NATO summit aboard a newly renovated aircraft donated by Qatar. The aircraft's first international trip had already attracted scrutiny over its cost, security and modifications.

The situation was particularly sensitive because Turkey shares a border with Iran and tensions in the region had intensified at the time.

U.S. officials reportedly feared that the aircraft publicly associated with Trump could become a potential target if an attack was being planned.

White House did not disclose change

The White House did not publicly reveal the aircraft switch at the time. Officials had initially indicated that Trump was flying aboard Air Force One from Turkey to Britain.

The secrecy surrounding the operation has raised questions about the risks faced by Trump's aides, journalists and other personnel who remained aboard the aircraft that was believed to be carrying the President.

Trump, however, defended the decision by saying presidential security is ultimately determined by the Secret Service and military authorities.

Security remains a key concern

The incident highlights the extraordinary security measures surrounding presidential travel, particularly when the U.S. President visits regions experiencing heightened geopolitical tensions.

While Trump did not provide specific details about the alleged threat, his remarks confirmed that security officials considered the aircraft switch necessary.

The episode also comes as Washington and Tehran remain locked in a period of heightened tensions, making presidential travel arrangements a significant security concern.

For now, U.S. authorities have not publicly disclosed the specific intelligence behind the decision to move Trump from Air Force One to another aircraft.

An Alaska Airlines flight from Miami to Seattle was briefly disrupted on Sunday after pilots reported that passengers had allegedly made threats to take control of the aircraft during taxiing.

The crew responded by securing the cockpit and returning the aircraft to the gate, where law enforcement officers removed two passengers from the flight. The aircraft was later cleared to continue its journey after the passengers were taken into custody.

The incident involved Alaska Airlines Flight 305, which was preparing for take-off from Miami when the crew reported the disturbance.

Pilots Activate Cockpit Lockdown

According to an exchange between the flight crew and air traffic control published by aviation monitoring outlet Enhanced Radar, the pilots informed controllers that they were dealing with a serious passenger disturbance.

The crew said threats had been made toward flight attendants and requested to follow the airline's lockdown procedure.

The pilot told ground control that the aircraft's parking brake had been set and the engines were being shut down while the crew dealt with the situation.

The pilots subsequently reported that a passenger had allegedly threatened to take control of the aircraft after making the statement to a flight attendant.

Given the nature of the allegation, the crew decided to return to the gate rather than continue the flight.

Two Passengers Removed

Once the aircraft reached the gate, passengers were temporarily asked to leave the plane while authorities responded to the incident.

Two passengers identified by the crew as being involved in the disturbance were removed and taken into custody by law enforcement.

The airline later confirmed that both passengers had been temporarily prohibited from flying with Alaska Airlines.

After the situation was assessed, the remaining passengers were allowed to reboard and Flight 305 eventually departed for Seattle.

Airline Confirms Disruption

Alaska Airlines confirmed that two passengers had behaved disruptively while the aircraft was taxiing on August 9.

The airline said the aircraft returned to the gate, where law enforcement officers met the flight and removed the two individuals.

The carrier stressed that the safety of passengers and crew remained its primary concern and apologised for the delay caused by the incident.

The flight ultimately completed its journey to Seattle.

Police Find No Credible Threat

Despite the seriousness of the initial report, police later determined that there was no credible threat to the aircraft.

The two individuals who had been detained were subsequently rebooked on another flight.

The finding suggests that while the comments triggered an immediate security response, investigators did not establish evidence of an actual attempt or capability to hijack the aircraft.

Why Such Threats Trigger Immediate Action

Threats to seize control of an aircraft are treated extremely seriously because of the potential consequences for everyone on board.

Flight crews are trained to respond to suspicious behaviour and threats by following established security procedures, even when it is not immediately clear whether the threat is genuine.

In this case, the pilots chose to stop the aircraft, secure the cockpit and return to the gate rather than take any unnecessary risk.

The incident also demonstrates how aviation security procedures can cause significant delays even when an initial threat is later found to be unsubstantiated.

For passengers on Flight 305, the disruption ended without further escalation, and the aircraft eventually resumed its scheduled journey to Seattle.

US President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to Russia and China, saying there would be "dire consequences" if either country intervenes in support of Iran amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East. Trump said he believes both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping have assured him that their countries will not provide weapons to Tehran.

In a post shared on social media on Friday, Trump dismissed speculation that Moscow or Beijing were actively supporting Iran in the ongoing conflict. However, he made it clear that any change in that position would trigger a serious response from the United States.

"I don't believe China or Russia are involved in the Iran war. But if they are, it won't end well for them," Trump said.

The US President revealed that during his recent meeting with Xi Jinping in Beijing, the Chinese leader assured him that China would not send weapons to Iran "under any circumstances." Trump also claimed Xi confirmed that Chinese companies would follow the same policy.

"I believe Xi Jinping," Trump wrote, expressing confidence that Beijing would keep its commitment.

Trump also said Russian President Vladimir Putin had given him a similar assurance that Russia would not supply military equipment to Iran despite Moscow's close ties with Tehran.

Trump Says He Is Still in Contact With Putin

Despite the continuing war in Ukraine, Trump said he remains in regular contact with Putin.

He also addressed US military assistance to Ukraine, clarifying that Washington does not directly provide weapons to Kyiv. Instead, he said, the United States supplies arms to NATO allies, which purchase the equipment and decide how to use it.

"We sell weapons to NATO countries. They pay the full cost, and what they do with those weapons afterward is their decision," Trump said.

Netanyahu to Meet Trump in Washington

As tensions continue to rise in the Middle East, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to visit Washington on Monday for talks with President Trump.

The meeting will mark the first face-to-face discussion between the two leaders since the Iran conflict intensified. The agenda is expected to focus on regional security, military coordination, and diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation.

Oil Prices Cross $100 a Barrel

The ongoing conflict has begun affecting global energy markets.

Brent crude oil prices climbed above $100 per barrel for the first time since May as fears of supply disruptions in the Gulf intensified. Analysts say continued instability near the Strait of Hormuz could push energy prices even higher in the coming weeks.

Iran Launches Drone Strikes on US Bases in Kuwait

Iran reportedly carried out drone attacks on three American military installations in Kuwait on Friday.

The targeted bases included:

• Camp Arifjan
• Camp Doha
• Camp Adairi

The attacks underscore the widening regional dimensions of the conflict and have heightened concerns over the safety of US military personnel stationed across the Gulf.

Iran Rejects US Pressure

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated that Tehran would not surrender to US pressure or threats.

Speaking at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Kyrgyzstan, Araghchi said Iran would continue defending its sovereignty despite mounting international pressure.

Indian Crew Safe After Tanker Attack

In another development, an LPG tanker sailing under the Mozambique flag came under attack in Iranian waters near the Strait of Hormuz.

The Indian Embassy confirmed that all 28 Indian crew members aboard the vessel are safe, providing relief amid growing concerns over maritime security in one of the world's busiest shipping routes.