US President Donald Trump has promised a $5,000 payment to every American adult if Republicans retain control of both chambers of Congress in the November midterm elections, making an extraordinary financial pledge as the party seeks to rally voters ahead of the poll.

Speaking at the Republican National Committee's midterm convention in Dallas, Texas, Trump described the proposed payment as a “dividend” and urged his supporters to treat the election as if he himself were on the ballot. Trump is not personally contesting the midterm election.

The proposal, however, comes without a detailed explanation of how the federal government would finance or administer such a large-scale payment. Reuters reported that providing $5,000 to every eligible adult could cost approximately $1.35 trillion.

Trump Links Payment to Republican Victory

Trump said the payment would be made if Republicans maintain control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate after the November election.

He presented the plan as a benefit arising from what he described as the country's strong economic performance. Trump also said there would be a condition attached to the money: recipients would have to spend it within the United States.

The announcement was made during a convention designed to energise Republican voters and candidates ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.

Funding Details Remain Unclear

One of the biggest questions surrounding the proposal is where the money would come from.

Trump did not provide a detailed funding plan during his announcement, instead arguing that the United States was generating substantial amounts of money. The scale of the proposed programme would make it a major federal spending commitment.

The Associated Press reported that the payment could cost more than $1 trillion and would require congressional approval. It also noted that tariff revenue has been discussed as a possible funding source, although current tariff collections would not be sufficient on their own to cover a payment of this size.

A Major Campaign Promise Before Midterms

The pledge comes at a critical point in the 2026 US political calendar. All 435 House seats are up for election, while control of the Senate will also be contested. The elections are scheduled for November 3.

Trump has made himself the central figure in the Republican campaign, despite not appearing on the ballot. His message at the Dallas convention was aimed at encouraging voters to see the election as a referendum on his administration and Republican control of Congress.

The unusual midterm convention itself has placed considerable attention on Trump's role in the Republican campaign.

Questions Over Economic Impact

The proposed $5,000 payment could have significant economic implications if implemented, particularly because of its enormous fiscal cost.

The United States is already dealing with high federal debt and a substantial budget deficit. Critics have questioned whether a programme of this scale could be financed without adding pressure to government finances.

The AP described the pledge as a “Trump Dividend” and noted that its implementation would face substantial fiscal and legislative questions.

Trump Seeks to Mobilise Republican Voters

Trump's announcement also reflects his broader strategy of making the 2026 midterms closely associated with his presidency.

At the Dallas convention, he urged supporters to “pretend” that he was on the ballot and framed Republican success as essential to advancing his political agenda.

For now, however, the $5,000 payment remains a campaign proposal rather than an approved federal programme. Its final value, eligibility rules, funding source and implementation would depend on legislation and congressional action.

With the midterm elections approaching, the pledge is likely to become a major point of debate over both Trump's economic agenda and the fiscal priorities of a potential Republican-controlled Congress.

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.

US President Donald Trump has renewed his claim that noncitizens illegally voted in the 2020 presidential election, saying an initial review of voter records had identified more than 24,000 cases. He again asserted that he had won the election and urged Congress to pass the SAVE America Act, legislation aimed at requiring proof of citizenship and voter identification for federal elections.

Trump made the latest claims in a post on Truth Social, saying the US Census Bureau had begun comparing 2020 voter records with citizenship records.

He claimed that the initial review covered 128 million voter records and had identified more than 24,000 instances involving noncitizens who allegedly voted illegally. Trump said another 32 million voter records would be examined as part of the review.

Trump Repeats 2020 Claim

Trump again wrote that he had won the 2020 presidential election, despite the election having been won by Democrat Joe Biden.

In his post, Trump linked the alleged voter-record review to his broader argument that US elections should have stricter citizenship and identification requirements.

He called on Congress to pass the SAVE America Act, which seeks to establish additional requirements for voting in federal elections.

The claims about noncitizen voting are politically significant because voting by noncitizens in federal elections is already prohibited under US law. The key issue raised by Trump's latest statement is the scale and verification of the alleged cases he cited.

Census Records Under Review

Trump said the Census Bureau had begun comparing voter records from the 2020 election against citizenship records.

According to his statement, the first stage involved 128 million voters, while another 32 million records were expected to be analysed.

Trump predicted that the number of alleged cases would increase as the review continued.

The material provided for the claim does not include further details about the methodology used for matching voter and citizenship records or independent confirmation of the 24,000 figure.

Trump Praises India’s System

Trump's renewed push for the legislation came after he praised India's election system, particularly its use of voter identification.

In another Truth Social post, Trump referred to a conversation involving India's Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and highlighted India's use of photo identification during elections.

Trump argued that India's voting system offered an example of stricter voter identification requirements.

He also referred to India's 2024 general election, saying that hundreds of millions of voters participated and that voters were required to have valid photo identification.

SAVE America Act

Trump has repeatedly called for passage of the SAVE America Act as part of his efforts to tighten election rules in the United States.

The proposed legislation seeks to require proof of US citizenship for participation in federal elections and strengthen voter identification requirements.

The White House has backed the measure, arguing that only US citizens should decide the outcome of American elections.

White House Supports Bill

The White House described the proposed legislation as a “common sense, bipartisan bill” and said it would ensure that only US citizens can vote in federal elections.

The administration's position comes amid an ongoing political debate in the United States over voter identification, citizenship verification and election administration.

Trump's latest comments are likely to keep the issue at the centre of the national political debate as Congress considers election-related legislation.

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.

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham reportedly exchanged messages with a person posing as US President Donald Trump’s chief of staff, Susie Wiles, before becoming suspicious that the contact was not genuine, according to a report by Politico.

The reported incident has raised fresh questions over the security of communications involving senior political figures in Britain and the United States. British officials have reportedly kept details of the exchange closely guarded because of potential national security concerns.

Burnham Received Suspicious Messages

According to the report, Burnham communicated with the person impersonating Wiles after entering Downing Street. Only a small number of messages were reportedly exchanged, although the exact date and content of the communication remain unclear.

One person briefed on the exchange described it as involving only “a few messages” and said they were of “no significance”.

Downing Street has declined to comment specifically on the incident, citing its policy of not discussing national security matters.

The reported contact has nevertheless drawn attention because Burnham had apparently believed he was communicating with a senior US White House official before becoming concerned that the person on the other end was not Wiles.

British Embassy Raised Issue

The incident was reportedly serious enough for the British embassy in Washington to raise the matter with the White House, according to officials cited by Politico.

The episode has also reportedly prompted concerns within the UK government about whether Wiles’ phone or contact information may have been compromised again.

The circumstances have added sensitivity to the case because Wiles had previously been targeted in a separate impersonation incident involving senior American political and business figures.

Earlier Wiles Impersonation Case

In 2025, US authorities investigated an effort in which someone allegedly posed as Wiles and contacted senators, governors, senior business executives and other influential individuals.

The Wall Street Journal reported in May 2025 that federal authorities were examining who was behind the impersonation and what the motive may have been.

At the time, FBI officials reportedly told the White House that they did not believe a foreign government was responsible.

Wiles had also reportedly informed associates that contacts stored on her cellphone had been compromised. The device was said to be her personal phone rather than her official government handset.

How Impersonator Contacted Officials

According to reports from the earlier investigation, the impersonator used compromised contacts to approach people who would normally have been able to communicate directly with Wiles.

Some recipients reportedly became suspicious after noticing differences in the messages.

The communication style allegedly differed from Wiles’ usual manner, with unusual grammar and more formal wording. The messages were also reportedly sent from numbers that did not match Wiles’ actual phone number.

In at least one reported case, the impersonator allegedly asked the recipient to transfer money.

The person also reportedly asked questions about President Trump that Wiles, as a senior White House official, would normally have been expected to know.

Why the Burnham Case Matters

The reported communication with Burnham gives the earlier impersonation controversy an international dimension.

It remains unclear whether the person who contacted Burnham was the same individual or group involved in the earlier US incidents. The identity and motive of the person behind the messages have not been established publicly.

The episode is particularly sensitive because Burnham recently moved into Britain’s highest political office.

According to the report, the communication occurred around the period when Burnham was entering Downing Street, making the possibility of an impersonated foreign official contacting a newly installed prime minister a significant security concern.

Cybersecurity Risk for Leaders

The incident also highlights a broader vulnerability facing political leaders and senior officials: impersonation through compromised contact lists, spoofed identities and deceptive messaging.

Senior officials frequently communicate through personal and professional networks, making compromised contacts potentially valuable to people attempting to gain access to sensitive conversations or establish credibility.

Even brief exchanges can create security concerns if officials are persuaded that they are communicating with a trusted foreign counterpart.

The latest case is therefore likely to draw further attention from British and American security authorities, particularly as governments continue to deal with increasingly sophisticated attempts to impersonate senior officials.

For now, the exact content and significance of Burnham’s reported exchange remain unclear. Neither Downing Street nor the White House has publicly provided detailed confirmation of the communications.

US President Donald Trump’s secret aircraft switch in Ankara last month has drawn renewed attention after details emerged about which senior officials remained on the decoy plane and who accompanied the president on a smaller military aircraft.

Trump switched from the older Air Force One to a smaller military aircraft after US and Turkish intelligence agencies reportedly identified a credible threat from Iran following the NATO summit in Ankara.

While Trump left Turkey aboard the smaller aircraft, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent remained on the original plane, along with other senior White House officials and members of the travelling press.

Why Trump Switched Planes

The aircraft switch took place on July 8, following the NATO summit in Turkey.

According to reports, intelligence collected by the CIA and Turkey’s MIT indicated that Iran could potentially target Air Force One with a surface-to-air missile.

Reports also suggested that an Iranian-linked team operating in Turkey had been tasked with carrying out such an attack. Intelligence agencies had reportedly obtained information about Trump’s location in Ankara as well.

The security concerns prompted the Secret Service and US military to devise an elaborate deception operation.

Trump publicly boarded the older Air Force One, creating the impression that he would leave Turkey on that aircraft. He was then secretly transported to a military aircraft, reportedly using an airport catering vehicle as part of the operation.

Trump later confirmed that the decision was made because military and Secret Service officials wanted him to travel on a different aircraft.

Rubio and Bessent Stayed Behind

One of the most notable aspects of the operation was the decision to leave senior Cabinet officials Marco Rubio and Scott Bessent on the original aircraft.

According to reports, both officials knew that Trump was no longer aboard the plane. They remained there with Stephen Miller, the president’s top domestic policy adviser, and Steven Cheung, the White House communications director.

Travelling journalists and some White House staff members, however, were reportedly not informed about the deception.

Those aboard the decoy aircraft were also reportedly instructed to keep the window shades closed.

Maintaining Presidential Succession

Reports citing US officials said Rubio and Bessent were kept on the decoy aircraft partly to maintain the presidential line of succession.

Under US law, if the president dies or becomes incapacitated, the vice president is next in line, followed by the Speaker of the House and the President Pro Tempore of the Senate.

The Secretary of State and Treasury Secretary follow further down the succession order.

By keeping senior officials on the decoy aircraft, officials could ensure that multiple people in the presidential line of succession were not travelling with Trump on the same aircraft.

Trump’s Close Aides Joined Him

Trump was accompanied on the smaller military aircraft by several close aides, including Dan Scavino, White House deputy chief of staff; Walt Nauta, director of Oval Office operations; and Natalie Harp, a 34-year-old executive assistant who has been nicknamed Trump’s “human printer”.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth also travelled with Trump aboard the smaller C-32A aircraft.

Harp frequently travels with Trump and is known for providing him with printed copies of news reports, social media posts and other material.

Scavino has been associated with Trump for many years, while Nauta, a former Navy culinary specialist and White House valet, has remained part of Trump’s close circle.

Questions Over the Decoy Plane

The aircraft switch has also triggered criticism over the decision to keep journalists and other personnel aboard the decoy aircraft without informing them of the potential threat.

Critics have questioned whether the operation unnecessarily exposed people on the original aircraft to danger while protecting the president.

Trump, however, has defended the decision, arguing that the aircraft he boarded may actually have faced greater risk because an attacker would have been more likely to target the plane believed to be carrying the president.

Former US intelligence and national security officials have also debated whether the same security objective could have been achieved without misleading so many people.

Security Operation Remains Controversial

The Ankara aircraft switch highlights the extraordinary security measures surrounding the US president when intelligence agencies identify a potential threat.

While the operation succeeded in moving Trump out of Turkey without publicly revealing his actual aircraft, questions remain over the decision to keep senior officials and members of the travelling press on the decoy aircraft.

The incident has therefore become a subject of debate not only over presidential security but also over transparency, risk management and the responsibilities of officials during covert security operations.

 US President Donald Trump has announced that White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt will leave her position by the end of August, saying she wants to spend more time with her family following the birth of her daughter.

Trump made the announcement on Wednesday through a post on Truth Social, praising the 28-year-old official and saying she would continue to remain close to his administration as one of his top outside advisers.

Leavitt separately confirmed her departure, describing the decision as “bittersweet” and saying the demanding nature of the press secretary's job had made it difficult for her to balance her responsibilities at the White House with motherhood.

Leavitt Cites Family Responsibilities

Leavitt said that after returning to the White House following the birth of her daughter Viviana in May, she realised she could not give both her children the time and attention they deserved while continuing in one of the administration's most demanding positions.

She said the decision was ultimately driven by her desire to be a better mother to her two young children.

Her departure will bring an end to a high-profile tenure during which she became one of the most recognisable members of Trump's communications team.

Trump said Leavitt would now serve as one of his key advisers outside the White House.

Youngest Press Secretary

Leavitt became the youngest person to serve as White House press secretary when Trump returned to office in January 2025.

She was 27 when she assumed the position, surpassing the previous record associated with Ronald Ziegler, who was 29 when he served as press secretary to President Richard Nixon.

Leavitt had already worked with Trump during his first presidency, serving as a press aide.

She later entered electoral politics and ran as the Republican candidate for New Hampshire's First Congressional District in 2022, but lost the election.

She subsequently joined Trump's 2024 presidential campaign and became part of his transition team before being selected as White House press secretary.

Frequent Exchanges With Media

Leavitt's tenure at the White House briefing room podium was marked by frequent confrontations with journalists.

She became known for aggressively defending Trump's policies and challenging reporters over questions involving the administration.

Her statements also attracted scrutiny from fact-checkers. Among the claims that drew criticism was her assertion that tariffs amounted to a tax cut for Americans, a statement that was rated false by PolitiFact.

Despite the controversies, Trump repeatedly praised her communication skills and performance as his chief spokesperson.

In one of his earlier comments, he described her as an effective communicator and publicly praised her prominence within his administration.

Departure Comes During Difficult Period

Leavitt's exit comes at a politically challenging time for the Trump administration.

Trump's approval ratings have faced pressure in recent surveys, with voters expressing concerns about rising prices and the economic consequences of the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

The White House press secretary has therefore been operating at a time when the administration has faced intense questioning over foreign policy, economic conditions and domestic political issues.

Leavitt's departure will mean the White House will have to appoint a new public face for its daily interaction with journalists.

Trump's announcement did not immediately identify her successor.

Trump Praises Leavitt

Trump's announcement was notably positive toward Leavitt despite her decision to leave the administration.

He praised her service and said she would remain part of his broader political team as an outside adviser.

The president has frequently highlighted Leavitt's loyalty and ability to defend his administration during difficult exchanges with the media.

Her decision, however, appears to be primarily driven by family considerations following the birth of her second child.

Who Will Replace Her?

The White House has not yet announced who will succeed Leavitt as press secretary.

During Trump's first presidential term, the White House went through four press secretaries — Sean Spicer, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Stephanie Grisham and Kayleigh McEnany.

The next appointment will be closely watched as the administration prepares for another phase of its presidency amid political and economic challenges.

For now, Leavitt is expected to remain in the role through the end of August before beginning what she described as a new chapter in her life.

American pop star Katy Perry has criticised the Trump administration after the official White House TikTok account used her hit song "Firework" in a video featuring footage of US military strikes on Iran, saying she neither approved nor supported its use in that context.

Taking to social media platform X, Perry said she was "deeply appalled and angry" that her 2010 chart-topping anthem had been paired with images of military action.

"I did not approve this," the singer wrote, adding that she had not been contacted for permission before the video was published.

Song Used With Strike Footage

The controversy began after the White House shared a short black-and-white video showing US airstrikes targeting locations in Iran amid escalating tensions in West Asia.

The clip featured a segment of Perry's song "Firework", including the lyrics, "Boom, boom, boom, even brighter than the moon," synchronised with scenes of explosions. The post was accompanied by the caption, "Iran has been warned," along with a firework emoji.

Perry said the song was written as a message of hope, resilience and personal empowerment, arguing that linking it to scenes of warfare distorted its original meaning.

"I wrote this song to be an anthem of hope, healing and inner strength," she said.

Debate Over Music Licensing

The incident has reignited discussion over the use of copyrighted music by political organisations and government agencies on social media platforms.

Although platforms such as TikTok maintain licensing agreements that allow verified accounts to use commercially released music, artists have increasingly objected when their songs are used in political messaging or government campaigns without their endorsement.

Perry sold the rights to her music catalogue to Litmus Music in a multi-million-dollar deal, meaning licensing decisions may not always require her direct approval. However, artists can still publicly distance themselves from how their work is used.

Growing Pushback From Artists

Katy Perry is among several musicians who have criticised the Trump administration over the use of their music in official social media content.

Earlier, Ariana Grande objected after her song "Bye" was used in a White House video related to immigration enforcement, prompting the audio to be removed. Sabrina Carpenter also criticised the use of her music in a video concerning border operations.

Other artists, including Olivia Rodrigo, Kesha, and The Rolling Stones, have previously raised similar concerns over the political use of their songs.

White House Yet to Respond

The White House has not issued an official response to Perry's criticism or indicated whether the video will be removed.

The episode highlights the growing tension between digital political communication and artists seeking greater control over how their creative work is associated with government messaging and public policy.

US President Donald Trump has reportedly put on hold at least one proposal to significantly expand military operations against Iran, as senior administration and military officials raised concerns over the strategic and logistical costs of a prolonged conflict.

According to a report by The New York Times, the decision follows internal discussions within the Trump administration over the Pentagon's dwindling stockpile of Patriot missile interceptors and other critical air defence systems. Officials reportedly fear that escalating the conflict could weaken the United States' defensive capabilities in the region and reduce its preparedness for future threats.

Pentagon Raises Operational Concerns

The report says Trump met with senior national security officials on Friday to review military options and assess the risks of further action against Iran.

Among the key concerns discussed was the shrinking inventory of Patriot missile interceptors, which have been heavily used to defend US personnel and allied assets in West Asia against missile and drone attacks.

General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, reportedly cautioned that while the US military retains the capability to resume large-scale operations against Iran, doing so could substantially deplete air defence resources available to US Central Command.

The discussion gained urgency after three American soldiers were killed in Jordan earlier this week when a ballistic missile penetrated US air defences during an attack involving Iranian missiles and drones.

Diplomacy Gains Momentum

The reported reassessment also reflects growing concern within the administration that an expanded conflict could destabilise the broader West Asian region and strain relations with key Gulf allies.

White House Communications Director Steven Cheung reiterated that President Trump continues to favour diplomacy while keeping military options available.

"The President has always been consistent in saying he prefers a diplomatic solution, but he continues to retain all options if Iran continues terrorist activities in the Strait of Hormuz or against allies," Cheung said.

He added that Iran should pursue negotiations after facing extensive sanctions and repeated military strikes, warning that the consequences of refusing diplomacy were well understood by Tehran.

Officials Question Military Escalation

According to the report, several senior officials within the administration privately questioned whether renewed large-scale strikes would achieve Washington's strategic objectives.

One official, speaking anonymously, reportedly argued that further military action could strengthen domestic support for Iran's leadership rather than force it back to negotiations, allowing Tehran to rally public opinion around an external threat.

Regional Tensions Continue

Although reports suggest the White House is delaying broader military action, hostilities in the region remain elevated.

The United States has reportedly continued air operations against Iranian targets, while clashes have also intensified between Saudi-backed forces and the Iran-aligned Houthi movement in Yemen, underscoring the fragile security situation across West Asia.

The developments indicate that while the Trump administration is leaving the door open for military action, it is also weighing the long-term strategic costs of sustaining a wider regional conflict.

US President Donald Trump has announced that artificial intelligence (AI) will be one of the central topics of discussion when Chinese President Xi Jinping visits the United States on September 24.

The meeting follows Trump's visit to Beijing earlier this year, where the two leaders held talks and Trump extended an invitation for Xi to visit the White House.

Speaking on Thursday, Trump said the issue of AI had already been discussed during his China visit and would remain high on the agenda.

"President Xi is coming over on September 24, and we talked about it when I was over in Beijing, and we'll be talking about it again," Trump said.

AI Expected to Be a Major Agenda Item

Artificial intelligence has emerged as one of the most strategically important areas in US-China relations, with both countries competing for global leadership in advanced technologies.

The upcoming summit is expected to cover issues related to AI development, technological cooperation, security concerns, and regulatory frameworks, although neither side has released a detailed agenda.

The announcement came a day after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held discussions aimed at preparing for what officials described as a "very positive visit."

According to statements from both governments, the two diplomats emphasized the importance of identifying areas of cooperation while managing ongoing differences.

Fresh Tariffs Ahead of the Summit

Trump's announcement also came shortly after his administration imposed an additional 12.5% tariff on Chinese imports as part of a broader trade action affecting several countries.

The new tariffs, introduced over concerns related to forced labour, raise the effective US tariff burden on many Chinese goods, adding another layer of complexity to bilateral economic ties.

Despite the latest trade measures, both Washington and Beijing have continued diplomatic engagement, signaling a willingness to prevent trade disputes from escalating further.

Trade Relations Showing Signs of Improvement

The planned summit takes place amid gradual improvement in US-China relations following last year's intense tariff confrontation.

At one stage, US tariffs on Chinese products had climbed to as high as 145%, significantly disrupting trade between the world's two largest economies.

However, a one-year trade understanding, reached after a previous Trump-Xi meeting in South Korea, helped ease tensions by suspending some tariffs, relaxing restrictions on rare-earth exports, and pausing certain investigations involving Chinese industries.

That agreement is scheduled to expire in November 2026, making the September summit particularly significant for both governments.

Xi Likely to Push for Tariff Relief

Analysts believe President Xi is expected to seek further easing of US trade restrictions during his visit.

China has consistently called for greater stability in bilateral economic relations, while the United States continues to press Beijing on trade practices, technology, market access, and national security concerns.

Whether the two sides can reach new agreements remains uncertain, but the meeting is expected to shape the future direction of US-China relations.

Why the Meeting Matters

The Trump-Xi summit is likely to be one of the most closely watched diplomatic events of the year, given the importance of the US-China relationship to the global economy.

Beyond trade, discussions are expected to cover:

• Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies
• Bilateral trade and tariffs
• Supply chain resilience
• National security concerns
• Global economic stability
• Areas of future cooperation

The outcome of the meeting could influence international technology policies, global trade flows, and strategic competition between the world's two largest economies.

United States Vice President J.D. Vance and his wife, Usha Vance, have welcomed their fourth child, making history in American politics. Their son, Alec Neil Vance, was born on July 19, becoming the first child born to a sitting U.S. vice president in more than 150 years.

According to historical records cited by Time magazine, the last time a serving American vice president welcomed a child while in office was in 1870, when Schuyler Colfax, who served under President Ulysses S. Grant, and his wife Ellen welcomed their son, Schuyler Colfax III. The birth of Alec Neil Vance therefore marks a rare milestone in the history of the U.S. executive branch.

Vice President Vance shared the news on social media shortly after the birth, announcing that both his wife and the newborn were healthy. He also expressed the family's happiness, saying their three older children were excited to meet their new baby brother.

Alec Neil Vance is the fourth child of J.D. and Usha Vance. The couple are already parents to Ewan, aged nine, Vivek, aged six, and Mirabel, aged four. The growing family has often remained in the public eye during Vance's political career, with the vice president occasionally speaking about family life during public appearances.

Usha Vance, who is of Indian origin, was born and raised in San Diego, California. Her parents immigrated to the United States from India and built successful professional careers. Her father is a mechanical engineer, while her mother is a molecular biologist.

J.D. and Usha first met in 2010 while studying at Yale Law School. Their friendship eventually developed into a relationship, and the couple later married. Since then, Usha has remained an important presence throughout Vance's legal and political journey.

Throughout his political career, J.D. Vance has been among the prominent American leaders advocating for policies aimed at encouraging larger families and increasing the country's birth rate. He has repeatedly argued that declining birth rates present long-term demographic and economic challenges for the United States.

To address those concerns, Vance has supported proposals that include expanded tax benefits for parents, financial assistance for families raising children, and broader government policies intended to make child-rearing more affordable. He has frequently stated that strengthening family life should remain a national priority.

In his recently published book, Communion, Vance also shared personal details about the couple's discussions regarding expanding their family. He wrote that he had wanted a fourth child for several years, while Usha initially believed their family was complete after the birth of their third child.

According to Vance, Usha had reservations about having another child after entering public life, believing that balancing national responsibilities with raising a larger family would become increasingly challenging.

Earlier this year, during a White House event in Michigan, the vice president humorously recalled a conversation with his wife before he entered the vice-presidential race. He said he had told Usha that he wanted a fourth child, to which she jokingly replied that he would have to choose between becoming vice president and expanding their family.

Speaking with a smile, Vance later remarked that he ultimately succeeded in achieving both goals.

In his book, the vice president also described an emotional experience that he said influenced the family's decision. He wrote that after the death of his close friend and activist Charlie Kirk in 2025, Usha attended the funeral and met Charlie's widow, Erika Kirk.

According to Vance, Erika expressed regret that she and her late husband had only two children. He wrote that the conversation deeply affected Usha and eventually changed her perspective about welcoming another child into their family.

The couple publicly announced the pregnancy on January 20, 2026, revealing through social media that they were expecting a baby boy. Since then, well-wishers from across the political spectrum have congratulated the family following the birth.

J.D. Vance has also frequently spoken warmly about his Indian-American in-laws. During a public event earlier this year, he praised them as an example of how immigrants have contributed positively to the development of the United States.

While emphasizing the importance of immigration's contributions, Vance also stated that every American citizen should place the country's interests first after becoming part of the nation. His comments reflected both his appreciation for his wife's family and his broader views on citizenship and national identity.

The birth of Alec Neil Vance represents not only a joyful personal milestone for the vice president's family but also a unique moment in American political history. As J.D. Vance continues serving in one of the nation's highest constitutional offices, the historic arrival of his fourth child adds an unusual chapter to the story of the modern U.S. vice presidency.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is set to visit the White House this week for his first official meeting with US President Donald Trump, marking the first visit by a Lebanese head of state to Washington in nearly two decades. The high-level meeting comes at a critical moment for Lebanon, which is seeking US support to secure an Israeli troop withdrawal from southern Lebanon and advance a plan to disarm the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group.

Ahead of the visit, Aoun said he would urge President Trump to "exert the necessary pressure on Israel" to implement a US-mediated agreement reached on June 26. The proposed framework includes the gradual disarmament of Hezbollah, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon, and steps aimed at creating long-term stability along the Israel-Lebanon border.

Hezbollah Disarmament at the Centre

According to reports, President Aoun will present a written roadmap outlining how Hezbollah's extensive weapons network can be dismantled under state supervision. Lebanese officials believe Washington's influence over Israel will be crucial in ensuring Israeli forces complete their withdrawal, enabling Beirut to re-establish full authority across its southern territory.

A former commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces, Aoun has consistently argued that only the Lebanese state should possess weapons. Since assuming office, he has made restoring the government's monopoly over arms one of his primary policy objectives.

The proposal represents one of Lebanon's most ambitious efforts in years to address the long-standing issue of Hezbollah's military presence while attempting to reduce regional tensions.

Conflict Continues to Shape Politics

Despite diplomatic efforts, security conditions remain fragile.

Following the 2024 conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, Lebanese forces had begun deploying across southern Lebanon under a ceasefire arrangement to seize Hezbollah weapons caches. However, fighting resumed earlier this year after Hezbollah launched attacks against Israel during the wider US-Iran confrontation.

According to Lebanon's Health Ministry, the renewed Israeli military operations have resulted in more than 4,300 deaths, including women, children and healthcare workers. The ministry does not distinguish between civilian and militant casualties, while Hezbollah has not officially disclosed losses among its fighters.

The renewed violence has intensified political divisions within Lebanon. Aoun's support for direct negotiations with Israel has drawn criticism from Hezbollah and its allies, who oppose any formal engagement with Israel. Nevertheless, the Lebanese president has maintained that the country's national interests must take precedence over broader regional conflicts.

Economic Recovery and Political Reform

Beyond security concerns, Aoun is expected to discuss Lebanon's worsening economic crisis with US officials.

Lebanon continues to face one of the world's worst financial collapses, with soaring inflation, a weakened banking system and widespread unemployment. The president is also expected to seek greater international support for reconstruction efforts and institutional reforms.

Aoun's election last year ended a two-year presidential vacuum following the completion of former President Michel Aoun's term. Since taking office, he has pledged to strengthen state institutions, revive the economy and ensure justice for victims of the devastating 2020 Beirut port explosion.

The White House meeting is expected to test whether Washington is willing to play a more active diplomatic role in shaping Lebanon's security future while balancing its close strategic relationship with Israel.