A US federal judge has temporarily blocked the Postal Service from implementing core parts of a rule ordered by President Donald Trump that would tighten mail-ballot requirements ahead of the November congressional elections.

US District Judge Indira Talwani issued a 14-day restraining order after Democratic-led states and voting-rights groups argued that the rule could prevent eligible citizens from voting and force election offices to redesign systems only weeks before ballots are mailed.

The dispute affects far more than a marginal voting method. About 30 per cent of American voters cast ballots by mail in the 2024 election, and the US Postal Service says it processed nearly 100 million ballots that year.

What the New Postal Rule Required

States would have been required to provide the Postal Service with lists of people receiving mail ballots. Outgoing and returned ballot envelopes would need unique barcodes and formats approved by the agency.

Under the rule, the Postal Service could refuse to deliver ballots that failed to meet the new standards or were connected to voters whose details did not appear on the uploaded list.

Supporters of tighter mail-voting rules argue that standardised tracking and verification would improve security and public confidence. Opponents say the rule would place election administration under an executive agency without evidence of widespread mail-ballot fraud.

Why the Judge Intervened

Talwani said the agency had not produced evidence of a fraud problem sufficient to justify the changes and found that the rule was likely unlawful. The US Constitution gives states the primary role in administering elections, although Congress also has significant power over federal election rules.

The judge concluded that the risk of widespread disenfranchisement outweighed the government's stated interest in addressing an unsubstantiated problem.

The restraining order does not finally decide the case. It pauses enforcement while the court considers whether to issue a longer preliminary injunction at a hearing scheduled for September 3.

Why the Supreme Court Ruling Did Not End the Case

Earlier injunctions against Trump's plan were lifted after a Supreme Court ruling on procedural grounds. That did not amount to a final judgment that every part of the new Postal Service rule was constitutional.

Once the agency issued a formal rule and it was allowed to take effect, states and voting-rights groups renewed their challenges. The latest order addresses the immediate risk created by implementation close to the election calendar.

An appeal could return the dispute to a higher court, including the Supreme Court.

How Mail Voting Works Across America

All 50 states allow some form of postal or absentee voting, but the rules vary sharply. Twenty-nine states allow voters to request a mail ballot without providing a special reason, while eight conduct elections primarily or entirely by mail.

That decentralised system is one reason a national presidential directive is legally contentious. States design ballots, register voters and administer elections, while the federal Postal Service transports the envelopes.

Unlike India, the United States has no single national election commission controlling a uniform voting process. Comparisons with India's limited postal-ballot system therefore cannot be converted directly into American law.

What Happens Next?

The September 3 hearing will determine whether the pause should continue. States must meanwhile prepare ballots without knowing whether the new requirements will return before voting begins.

The practical issue is time. Even if the government ultimately wins part of the legal argument, election administrators may contend that imposing new envelopes, barcodes, databases and training close to polling creates unacceptable operational risk.

FAQs

Has Trump's mail-voting plan been permanently struck down?

No. The judge issued a temporary 14-day order and will consider a longer injunction.

How many Americans vote by mail?

States told the court that approximately 30 per cent of voters used mail ballots in the 2024 election.

Can the US President directly change state election rules?

The president has limited authority. States and Congress hold important constitutional powers over elections, which is central to the current lawsuit.

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 US President Donald Trump has signalled a tougher but potentially less direct approach towards Iran, as Washington seeks to maintain pressure on Tehran while reducing the risk of prolonged American military involvement in the region.

The Strait of Hormuz has become the centre of the latest US-Iran standoff, with Trump repeatedly claiming that the United States has control over the strategic waterway. On August 18, Trump went further by sharing an image on social media depicting the Strait as “NEW U.S. Territory”. Iran rejected the claim and warned that Tehran would continue to challenge Washington's position. (Moneycontrol)

Trump’s Two-Track Approach

Trump has previously described a two-stage approach to resolving the crisis, with reopening the Strait of Hormuz as the immediate priority and negotiations over Iran's nuclear programme forming a second phase.

However, the diplomatic track now appears uncertain. Trump said on August 18 that there were no talks taking place with Iran and that no negotiations were currently scheduled. The statement came amid conflicting signals from Washington about the status of possible back-channel contacts with Tehran. (Reuters)

The latest position suggests that the administration is seeking to keep economic, maritime and political pressure on Iran while avoiding a major expansion of direct US military operations.

Hormuz Becomes Key Flashpoint

The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, is one of the world's most important energy corridors. Any sustained disruption to shipping through the waterway can have a direct impact on crude oil supplies and international energy markets.

Trump has repeatedly asserted that the United States has control over the strait. On August 12, he said the US had “total control” of the waterway even as vessel traffic had fallen sharply amid the conflict and stalled diplomatic efforts. (Al Jazeera)

Iran, meanwhile, has maintained that the waterway cannot be fully reopened without concessions from Washington.

Iran Rejects US Claims

Iranian officials have strongly rejected Trump's claims regarding the Strait of Hormuz.

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi criticised Trump's latest position, saying that his claims about the waterway would be “corrected”. Iranian security officials have also questioned Washington's ability to exercise the level of control claimed by the US president. (India Gazette)

Iran's position has added another obstacle to efforts to restore normal shipping through the strait.

Shipping Traffic Remains Under Pressure

Despite Trump's assertion that the waterway is open and operating, uncertainty among shipping companies remains high. Preliminary shipping data indicated that traffic through the Strait of Hormuz slowed as shipowners continued to avoid the route because of uncertainty over its security and reopening. (mint)

The disruption is also being reflected in global energy markets. Oil prices rose for a fourth consecutive day on Wednesday, with Brent crude trading above $91 a barrel as investors assessed the risk to exports through the waterway. (Reuters)

Diplomatic Breakthrough Uncertain

The latest developments indicate that the immediate focus remains on securing maritime traffic rather than announcing a fresh diplomatic agreement.

Iran has demanded concessions from Washington, including the lifting of restrictions affecting Iranian ports and oil exports and the release of frozen assets. Tehran has also rejected the US position on the future management of the Strait.

At the same time, Washington faces pressure to prevent the Hormuz crisis from developing into a wider regional confrontation while ensuring that Iran does not regain the ability to use the waterway as strategic leverage.

Global Energy Markets Watch

The standoff has implications well beyond the Middle East. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical route for global energy shipments, meaning prolonged uncertainty could keep crude prices elevated and increase transportation and insurance costs.

For the Trump administration, the challenge will be to maintain pressure on Tehran without triggering a broader military confrontation. For Iran, control over access to the waterway remains an important source of strategic leverage.

The coming days are likely to determine whether Washington and Tehran return to negotiations or remain locked in a confrontation centred on the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear programme.

A landmark civil nuclear cooperation agreement between the United States and Saudi Arabia has entered uncertain territory just one day after it was signed, following US President Donald Trump's decision to halt its implementation until Riyadh establishes diplomatic relations with Israel.

The agreement, signed in Washington after nearly two decades of negotiations, was initially viewed as a major breakthrough in US-Saudi strategic ties. However, within 24 hours of the signing ceremony, Trump announced new conditions that could significantly delay or even derail the deal.

According to the US President, Saudi Arabia must join the Abraham Accords and formally recognize Israel before the nuclear cooperation agreement can move forward. Trump also reaffirmed that Washington would not allow Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium on its own territory, citing concerns over nuclear weapons proliferation.

Trump Adds New Conditions

The civil nuclear agreement was signed in the presence of US Energy Secretary Chris Wright and was expected to strengthen cooperation in peaceful nuclear energy, including reactor development, technology transfer, and energy diversification.

Soon after the signing, however, Trump stated on his Truth Social platform that Saudi Arabia's participation in the Abraham Accords was essential for implementing the agreement.

He argued that expanding diplomatic recognition of Israel would reinforce regional stability and strengthen the US-led strategic alliance in West Asia.

The President also emphasized that while America supports Saudi Arabia's civilian nuclear ambitions, uranium enrichment within the kingdom would not be permitted because the technology could potentially be diverted for military purposes.

Reports Suggest Internal Disagreement

Several media reports indicate that the White House was not fully aligned on the timing of the agreement's announcement.

According to reports, Trump was reportedly unhappy after Energy Secretary Chris Wright publicly announced the deal before receiving what the President considered final political clearance.

The situation reportedly became more complicated after criticism emerged from conservative media outlets, including Fox News and The Wall Street Journal, questioning the safeguards included in the agreement.

Reports suggest the White House had instructed the Department of Energy to delay the public announcement. However, the department proceeded with the signing ceremony and informed the media, leading to speculation about differences within the administration.

The White House has denied any internal conflict, maintaining that linking the agreement with Saudi-Israel normalization has always been part of Trump's broader Middle East strategy.

Saudi Arabia Reportedly Surprised

According to CNN, Saudi officials were caught off guard by Trump's latest announcement.

Negotiators had reportedly finalized a draft framework that would allow Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium under strict international supervision.

Trump's public rejection of uranium enrichment therefore came as an unexpected development for Riyadh.

Saudi Arabia has consistently argued that it requires a complete civilian nuclear fuel cycle to meet its long-term energy and economic diversification goals under Vision 2030.

However, Washington has traditionally opposed allowing countries in the region to develop domestic uranium enrichment capabilities due to concerns about future military applications.

Why Uranium Enrichment Matters

Uranium enrichment is a critical step in producing fuel for civilian nuclear power plants.

When uranium is enriched to relatively low levels, it is used to generate electricity. However, if enrichment reaches much higher concentrations, the same technology can potentially be used to manufacture nuclear weapons.

Because of this dual-use nature, uranium enrichment remains one of the world's most sensitive nuclear technologies.

The United States has historically restricted such capabilities even among close allies, preferring that nuclear fuel be supplied through international arrangements rather than produced domestically.

Trump reiterated that Saudi Arabia would receive US assistance for peaceful nuclear energy but would not be allowed to independently enrich uranium.

Abraham Accords Become Central Issue

Trump's latest decision places renewed attention on the Abraham Accords, the US-brokered diplomatic initiative launched in 2020 that normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations, including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco and Sudan.

Successive US administrations have viewed Saudi Arabia as the most significant potential addition to the accords because of its influence across the Arab and Islamic worlds.

However, Riyadh has repeatedly maintained that it will not establish formal diplomatic ties with Israel unless meaningful progress is achieved toward creating an independent Palestinian state.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has further complicated normalization efforts, making Trump's new condition politically sensitive for Saudi leadership.

Strategic Implications

The uncertainty surrounding the agreement carries broader geopolitical implications.

Supporters of the deal argue that continued US involvement would keep Saudi Arabia within the Western nuclear framework while ensuring strict international oversight.

Critics warn that if Washington ultimately abandons the agreement, Saudi Arabia could seek alternative nuclear partnerships with countries such as China or Russia, potentially expanding their strategic influence across West Asia.

For now, the future of the agreement remains uncertain as diplomatic negotiations continue between Washington and Riyadh.

Whether both sides can bridge differences over Israel and uranium enrichment will determine if one of the region's most significant nuclear cooperation agreements eventually comes into force or becomes another casualty of the complex politics shaping the Middle East.

U.S. President Donald Trump hosted a seven-fight UFC card on the South Lawn of the White House on Sunday night, a spectacle that combined the president’s 80th birthday celebrations with the nation’s 250th anniversary events. The headline bout ended with Justin Gaethje defeating lightweight champion Ilia Topuria by TKO in the fourth round.

Event on the South Lawn

The South Lawn was transformed into a 4,300-seat arena beneath a 92-foot translucent canopy nicknamed “the Claw,” with an eight-sided Octagon installed directly in front of the executive mansion. Organisers ran the show under the Ultimate Fighting Championship banner; CEO Dana White — a close associate of the president — led fight-night proceedings alongside White House hosts.

Gaethje scores TKO

The main event, billed as a high-stakes lightweight clash, went into the fourth round before Justin Gaethje forced a stoppage. According to initial reports and footage from the Octagon, Gaethje landed a sequence of heavy strikes that left champion Ilia Topuria unable to continue. After the referee halted the contest, President Trump and members of his family entered the cage to congratulate the winner, who raised his arms as fireworks exploded over the National Mall.

Other key results

Earlier on the card, Ciryl Gane defeated Alex Pereira by TKO to claim the interim heavyweight crown. Bantamweight Sean O’Malley and several other fighters also recorded stoppages or decisive wins, and multiple post-fight moments — including fighters greeting VIPs cage-side — punctuated the evening. The programme ran seven fights in total.

Security and guest list

Security officials said a heavy deployment of federal and local forces protected the event. Metropolitan Police, the Secret Service, National Guard units and other agencies were reported at perimeter checkpoints and crowd-control posts. A string of corporate and tech executives were among the invited guests; Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg was visible in the crowd, and former boxer Tyson Fury made a brief appearance. Several Cabinet members and administration officials also attended, according to White House briefings.

Cost and logistics

Reports from outlets including The New York Times put the event’s cost — covering staging, security and related expenses for the UFC and its affiliates — above the level of a typical card, with estimates reaching into the tens of millions of dollars. Organisers erected hospitality spaces and opened several formal rooms inside the White House to fighters and guests for pre-fight access, including the Grand Foyer and Green Room, NBC and other outlets reported.

Questions over protocol

The event drew scrutiny on multiple fronts. Observers noted instances of flag-inspired costumes, which some said could conflict with U.S. Flag Code guidance that discourages using the flag as apparel. There were also fleeting controversies during the night: one fighter made a disparaging comment about former first lady Michelle Obama during a post-fight speech, and cameras caught the president briefly smiling at the remark. Separately, reports said several fighters might receive part of their bonus pay in a cryptocurrency tied to family-promoted ventures, a detail that raised questions about transparency and sponsorship.

Ground-level scene

On the South Lawn, fans chanted “Happy Birthday” to the president after the third fight, and several winners climbed out of the Octagon to greet the presidential box. Ground-level accounts described a charged, festival-like atmosphere late into the evening, with music, pyrotechnics and fans moving between the fan-fest area and the arena seats.

What’s next

The White House said the event was part of broader 250th anniversary programming and birthday events for the president. Officials did not immediately announce plans for similar sporting events on federal property. Media organisations and congressional offices are expected to seek further details on the full cost breakdown and the administrative approvals that allowed a professional mixed-martial-arts promotion to stage a pay-per-view-style card on White House grounds.

Oil prices crash over 4% after US president announces end to naval blockade in Strait of Hormuz; rupee gains 53 paise

Indian stock markets witnessed a sharp rally on Monday, 15 June, 2026, after US President Donald Trump claimed that a peace deal with Iran had been finalised. The Sensex surged 1,100 points to touch 76,677.93 level in morning trade, while the Nifty inched closer to the crucial 24,000 mark.

Markets reacted positively to Trump’s announcement that the US naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz would be lifted immediately. In a social media post, the president wrote, “Ships of the world, start your engines. Let the oil flow.”

Oil plunges 4%

Brent crude, the global benchmark for oil prices, crashed more than 4% to $83.30 per barrel following the development. The sharp drop came on expectations of increased supply as the strategic waterway reopens for unrestricted movement of tankers.

According to traders, the blockade had constrained oil shipments from major Gulf producers for several months, keeping prices elevated. The sudden reversal triggered selling pressure across energy futures.

Rupee gains sharply

The Indian rupee strengthened 53 paise to 93.65 against the US dollar in early trade on Monday, benefiting from the decline in crude prices and renewed foreign interest in domestic equities. A softer dollar overseas also supported the local currency.

Forex dealers said the combination of lower oil import bill and positive sentiment around emerging markets helped the rupee post its single largest single-day gain in nearly two months.

Global markets rejoice

Asian indices mirrored the upbeat mood. Japan’s Nikkei jumped 5.41% or 3,597 points to 69,594, while South Korea’s KOSPI surged 5.30% to 8,516. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng rose a more modest 0.44% to 24,834.

US markets had already closed higher on Friday ahead of the announcement. The Dow Jones added 354 points to 51,202, the S&P 500 rose 0.50% to 7,431, and the Nasdaq gained 0.31% to 25,889.

FII selling persists despite rally

Interestingly, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) continued their selling spree even as markets soared. Data showed overseas investors offloaded ₹1,082 crore on Monday alone, taking their total net selling over the past seven days to ₹9,760 crore.

Domestic institutional investors (DIIs), on the other hand, stepped in to buy ₹5,341 crore on Monday, with their net buying over the last 30 days crossing ₹1 lakh crore. Market participants said this shift underscores the growing role of local funds in stabilising the market during global uncertainty.

Trump removes naval blockade

In his post, the US president claimed that the long-awaited deal with Tehran was now complete. He also announced the immediate removal of the US naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, without any fees or conditions.

While details of the agreement remain unclear, sources familiar with the matter said the deal likely includes curbs on Iran’s nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief. Official confirmation from Iranian authorities is still awaited.

What next for oil and markets?

Analysts said the sustainability of the market rally will depend on verification of the deal and actual flow of Iranian oil into global markets. Crude prices could face further downside if supplies rise faster than expected.

For India, a net importer of oil, lower crude prices bring relief on inflation and fiscal deficit fronts. However, traders cautioned that volatility may return if geopolitical tensions resurface or if the deal unravels.

Markets will now watch for official statements from both Washington and Tehran over the next few days.

Israel launched a fresh round of strikes across southern Lebanon on Tuesday, military and local sources said, even after a reportedly heated call in which US President Donald Trump berated Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the escalation. The strikes and cross-border exchanges marked a fragile and volatile phase in a region already teetering under days of widening hostilities.

Early strikes, warnings

Israeli warplanes and drones struck towns in the Nabatieh and Tyre districts in the early hours, hitting residential areas and reportedly damaging homes, Lebanese state media and local correspondents said. The Israeli army issued evacuation orders for parts of Nabatieh city, urging civilians to move north of the Zahrani River ahead of planned operations. Lebanese health officials reported casualties from multiple incidents, including a drone strike that killed a dentist and two children on the Nabatieh-Khardali road.

According to Israeli military briefings, air defences also intercepted projectiles that crossed into northern Israel overnight, while a “suspicious aerial target” later fell inside Israeli territory near the border. No Israeli injuries were reported in those incidents.

US-Israel phone clash

The escalation came despite, and in some accounts because of, an intense phone call between Trump and Netanyahu, Reuters and Axios reported. The US president was said to have angrily questioned Israeli actions, warning they risked undermining sensitive diplomacy with Iran. Axios quoted Trump as asking, in expletive-laced language, “What the f are you doing?”

Israeli officials declined to comment directly on the tone of the call but Prime Minister Netanyahu told supporters late Monday that operations in southern Lebanon would continue “as planned.” The New York Times and Israeli media said that while Washington had sought to limit a wider assault—particularly on Beirut’s southern suburbs—Netanyahu maintained Israel would press on against Hezbollah positions in the south.

Diplomatic ripple effects

The strikes have already produced diplomatic fallout. Iran’s negotiating team briefly paused indirect talks with the US, Tehran’s semi-official Mehr News reported, warning that continued Israeli attacks in Lebanon could scuttle any memorandum of understanding in the works. Iran’s parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf told Lebanon’s Nabih Berri that Tehran would halt dialogue with Washington if the “crimes” in Lebanon persisted.

The situation has prompted regional measures: Bahrain barred citizens from travel to Iran and Iraq citing security concerns, while France publicly criticised Israel’s deep operations inside Lebanese territory. On the ground in Lebanon, Finance Minister Yassine Jaber warned that economic losses from the conflict could top $25 billion if hostilities continue.

Hezbollah, US proposal

Meanwhile, diplomatic channels have shown glimmers of possible de-escalation. Sources earlier said Hezbollah had agreed in principle to a US-backed ceasefire proposal that would pause airstrikes on southern Beirut suburbs in exchange for an end to rocket and drone attacks into Israel. Officials in Beirut told correspondents that Lebanese authorities were reviewing the offer and awaiting clearer guarantees from both sides.

Still, uncertainty remains. Israeli leaders have repeatedly said they reserve the right to strike “terror targets” in Beirut if Hezbollah attacks on Israeli civilians continue, comments that have raised alarm among Lebanese officials and neighbours.

Human cost, displacement

On the ground in southern Lebanon, residents described disrupted nights and mounting fear. Hospitals in Tyre and Nabatieh reported treating wounded from air raids and artillery strikes; local aid groups have warned that displacement is increasing as families flee to the north or seek shelter in larger towns. Humanitarian agencies are pressing for safe corridors but say the security environment and damaged infrastructure complicate relief efforts.

What happens next

Diplomats in Washington and regional capitals said negotiations and shuttling will intensify in the coming days, aiming to lock in any stopgap understandings that can prevent a wider confrontation. Officials close to the US administration told reporters they expect talks with Tehran could resume if attacks on Lebanon are contained, but Iranian sources cautioned that final texts were still under review.

For now, the conflict’s trajectory hinges on two immediate variables: whether Israel follows through on broader plans against Hezbollah strongholds beyond the south, and whether Tehran will link any US-Iran diplomatic progress to a halt in Israeli operations. As both sides weigh military steps against political calculations, civilians across northern Israel and southern Lebanon remain exposed to renewed strikes and displacement.

US President Donald Trump has struck a patient posture on negotiations with Iran, saying he is in “no hurry” to finalise any agreement, even as Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed it shot down a US military drone that allegedly entered Iranian territory.

The downing claim, reported by Iran’s Tasnim news agency on Sunday, adds a fresh layer of tension to already fragile diplomacy.

Drone Downing Claim

The IRGC said its air defence unit identified and targeted a US MQ-1 drone that intruded into Iranian airspace. According to the statement, the drone was shot down using advanced missile systems. Iran alleged the unmanned aircraft belonged to the US military and was attempting a “hostile operation”.

There was no immediate confirmation or response from US Central Command on the claim.

Trump’s Patient Stance

Speaking to Fox News, Trump made it clear he is not rushing toward a deal. He said the US would either make a “great deal” or “just go back and finish it off military”. He expressed preference for a negotiated outcome, saying it would “save a lot of lives” and allow the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz “immediately upon signing”.

“It takes a long time. I’m in no hurry,” Trump said. “If you’re gonna be in a hurry, you’re not gonna make a good deal. And slowly but surely, we’re getting, I think, what we want.”

He described Iran’s leadership as “very tough negotiators”.

Three Sticking Points

Diplomatic efforts continue through Pakistani mediators and other regional actors. But Iranian officials say several major hurdles remain before any agreement can be finalised.

First, Tehran wants its frozen assets returned immediately upon any deal announcement. Washington prefers a gradual, performance-based process.

Second, Iran has reframed its demand for financial compensation into what it calls a “construction fund” worth approximately $300 billion. The US has not committed to this.

Third, Iran is seeking sanctions relief, particularly on its oil and petrochemicals sector, while negotiations are still underway. Again, Washington has given no indication of agreement on this front.

Iran maintains the deal is not yet finalised, contrary to what the US has been signalling publicly.

Revised Conditions

According to a New York Times report, Trump has sent a revised proposal to Tehran with further tightened conditions. The report did not specify the changes, but sources indicate stricter terms related to Iran’s nuclear programme, enriched uranium stockpiles, and the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Trump separately claimed that Iran has agreed not to make or buy nuclear weapons. “First, Iran agreed not to make nuclear weapons. Then I asked them if they would buy them, and they also agreed,” he said in an interview.

Regional Tensions Escalate

Meanwhile, violence has intensified along Israel’s northern front. Israeli forces have launched what they described as a “large-scale operation” in southern Lebanon’s Shebaa Heights and Wadi al-Salouqi area. Several people have been killed in Israeli air attacks on the town of Deir ez-Zahrani, according to Lebanon’s National News Agency.

An Israeli soldier was also killed in battle in southern Lebanon on Saturday, the Israeli military confirmed.

As diplomacy drags on in the Iran case, the wider region remains on edge. Trump’s patient approach may buy time for negotiations, but with military posturing on both sides and a drone downing claim now on the table, the margin for error appears slim.

White House medical report names cholesterol drugs and low-dose aspirin as Trump approaches 80; cardiac age cited

The White House on Friday released a medical report saying President Donald Trump is in “excellent health” after a multi-specialist checkup at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, with doctors noting cholesterol medications, a low‑dose aspirin regimen and a recommendation for weight loss as he nears his 80th birthday.

Key findings
According to the report, which was posted by the White House, Trump underwent examinations by a team of 22 specialists on Tuesday. Tests included CT scans, heart imaging, cancer screening and routine preventive assessments. The White House physician, Dr. Sean P. Barbabella, wrote that Trump’s cardiac, pulmonary and neurological functions are strong and that his cognitive and physical performance are “excellent.”

Medications and advice
The report lists three medications related to cardiovascular and cholesterol management: Rosuvastatin and Ezetimibe to control cholesterol, and a low-dose Aspirin taken as a preventive measure. Dr. Barbabella advised weight loss through diet and increased physical activity, noting Trump’s weight at 238 pounds (about 108 kg), up from 224 pounds in April 2025. The president’s height is recorded as 6 ft 3 in.

Timeline and setting
The physical took place at Walter Reed on Tuesday, the White House said, with the release coming late Friday. Initial reports and the medical summary emphasize the breadth of specialist input and preventive screening performed during the visit.

Hand marks and swelling
The report addressed visible marks on Trump’s hands, saying light marks developed from repeated handshakes and the use of aspirin. It also noted mild swelling in the lower legs that has improved compared with the prior year. Independent physicians outside the White House have previously questioned the explanation for the hand marks, pointing out asymmetry between the left and right hand and urging more detail.

Cardiac age claim
An unusual element of the summary was a reference to Trump’s “cardiac age.” Dr. Barbabella stated that electrocardiogram findings suggested the president’s heart appears about 14 years younger than his chronological age. Some medical experts called inclusion of that metric in a public report atypical, saying cardiac age is a variable estimate rather than a standard clinical result.

Reactions and context
Trump posted on his social platform, Truth Social, saying the six‑month checkup “is complete. Everything came out absolutely perfect.” Medical commentators noted that a “six‑month physical” is not a routine term; full physicals are generally annual, while intermediate follow-ups may focus on specific issues. Over the past year, the president’s mobility, leg swelling and occasional drowsiness at events have prompted scrutiny and questions from both clinicians and political observers.

Public relevance
The report arrives as Trump prepares to turn 80 on June 14, making public health disclosures a matter of interest for voters and political adversaries alike. Health and stamina are frequently cited by elected leaders as relevant to job performance, and presidential medical reports have become closely watched documents in modern campaigns.

What’s next
The White House did not specify immediate follow-up tests beyond the preventive counseling and weight-loss recommendation. Sources familiar with presidential medical practice say ongoing monitoring of cardiovascular risk factors, lipids and leg swelling would be typical. Independent physicians who have commented publicly called for more granular data — such as specific lab values and imaging results — to allow outside assessment.

Why it matters
Beyond the political optics, the release underscores tensions in how much medical detail public officials should share. For voters, the report provides a snapshot of the president’s current care plan; for clinicians, it raises questions about presentation of diagnostic markers like “cardiac age” and the adequacy of publicly available clinical information.

Tehran views Strait of Hormuz as its biggest strategic weapon; Israeli attacks kill 31 in southern Lebanon as ground offensive deepens

Iran is bracing for a potential new war with the United States, with senior officials describing the Strait of Hormuz as Tehran's most formidable strategic asset. According to an Al Jazeera report published Wednesday, Iranian authorities have "zero trust" in Washington, prompting a three-pronged approach focusing on military readiness, domestic support, and diplomatic manoeuvring.

The Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) remains on high alert. While officials maintain that dialogue channels technically remain open, the military posture suggests otherwise.

Strait of Hormuz leverage

Iran considers the strategic waterway its greatest bargaining chip. A significant portion of global oil shipments transits through the strait, giving Tehran substantial leverage over the United States and its allies. Any disruption would send shockwaves through international energy markets, officials familiar with the strategy said.

Israeli strikes pound southern Lebanon

Meanwhile, Israel intensified its military campaign across the northern border, with strikes in southern Lebanon killing 31 people and injuring 40 others. The Israeli military issued dozens of forced displacement orders for towns and villages in Lebanon's south and east, triggering panic among residents.

Ground forces pushed deeper into Lebanese territory as families fled northward. The Israeli army warned residents of approximately 50 towns and villages to evacuate, including Nabatiyeh, a major southern town.

Trump criticises US media

US President Donald Trump lashed out at major American news outlets over their coverage of the Iran conflict. Speaking to reporters, Trump claimed that even a complete American military victory would be portrayed by the media as an Iranian win. The remarks drew mixed reactions from political observers.

Four major developments in 24 hours

The past day saw several significant escalations. Iran claimed its forces targeted US MQ-9B and RQ-4 drones and fired on an F-35 fighter jet that allegedly entered Iranian airspace. The Pentagon has not issued an official response.

Internet services were partially restored in Iran after 88 days. NetBlocks described this as the longest national internet blackout in modern history, severely affecting businesses and digital services across the country.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened a security meeting with defence officials, focusing on the northern border and Lebanon operations, while intensifying attacks on Hezbollah targets. The US also attacked Iranian mine-laying boats near the Strait of Hormuz and missile bases in Bandar Abbas. Centcom described the operation as an act of self-defence.

Diplomatic channel remains alive

Despite the escalating tensions, US and Iranian officials continue talks through mediators. People in Tehran appear hopeful about a potential understanding—the Iranian currency has appreciated more than five per cent this week, reflecting cautious optimism.

Large numbers of US military aircraft remain stationed at Israeli airports, including Ben Gurion and Ramon, where dozens of fighter jets and refuelling planes have reportedly affected normal flight operations.

Trump says Iran conflict will end “very quickly”; Senate moves to curb war powers

President reiterates goal to block Iran’s nuclear capability as Senate advances resolution limiting military action

President Donald Trump said on Tuesday the United States will bring the conflict with Iran to a swift close, while the Republican-led Senate took the rare step of advancing a War Powers Resolution designed to prevent prolonged military operations without explicit congressional approval.

Speaking at a White House event attended by lawmakers and aides in the late morning, Trump portrayed Tehran as anxious for a deal and said US forces would stop Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. “They want to make a deal so badly; they’re tired of this,” he said, adding that US pressure would continue until objectives were met. “We’ve done a hell of a good job… we’re going to be finished with that very quickly,” he said.

Senate moves

In Congress, senators voted to advance a measure that would curtail the president’s ability to conduct sustained military action against Iran without congressional authorisation. The procedural vote marked an unusual assertion of legislative oversight at a time of heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran.

According to Capitol Hill aides, the resolution could still face amendments and is likely to be the subject of tough partisan debate as supporters frame it as a defence of constitutional checks and balances, while opponents argue it could constrain rapid response options for commanders in the field.

Iran’s response

In Tehran, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that any renewed conflict would “feature many more surprises,” posting on X (formerly Twitter) that Iran was prepared for escalation. Araghchi cited reporting he said showed dozens of US aircraft damaged or lost since strikes began in February and claimed Iranian forces were the first to down an F-35 — an assertion that has not been independently verified by third-party military analysts.

“Months after initiation of war on Iran, US Congress acknowledges loss of dozens of aircraft worth billions,” he wrote, invoking a Congressional Research Service document. Iranian state media amplified the remarks, underscoring Tehran’s effort to project resilience amid growing international concern.

Regional flare-ups

The broader region saw several security flashpoints overnight. Israeli aircraft struck towns in southern Lebanon, local media reported, while Israel said it intercepted a Gaza-bound flotilla and transferred 430 activists to Israeli vessels after an interception at sea. The US also announced a fresh round of sanctions targeting Iranian-linked currency exchange houses, front companies and a fleet of vessels accused of enabling Tehran to skirt restrictions and fund regional activities.

South Korea, meanwhile, said it held “serious discussions” after a South Korean-operated ship, the HMM Namu, was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz on May 4. Seoul is analysing recovered debris to determine what struck the vessel and who was responsible.

White House posture

The Trump administration has combined diplomacy with military readiness. Vice-President JD Vance said Washington remains “locked and loaded” should negotiations fail to produce a nuclear deal, while administration officials said sanctions and targeted strikes would remain tools to deter Tehran.

State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott described the latest sanctions as part of an “economic fury campaign.” US officials have also been engaged in shuttle diplomacy with regional partners and consultations at NATO and with allies to prevent the conflict from widening.

What happens next

The Senate will continue to consider the War Powers Resolution, and a vote on final passage could come in the coming days. Diplomacy remains active in parallel: negotiators in Europe and the Gulf are reported to be pressing for renewed talks aimed at de-escalation and a framework to limit Iran’s nuclear activities.

On the ground, militaries in the Gulf and eastern Mediterranean are on heightened alert, diplomats said, while commercial shipping firms rerouted vessels after recent incidents in the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts warn that even if Washington and Tehran step back from direct confrontation, proxy incidents and third-party strikes could sustain instability.

For now, Washington’s mix of public warnings, sanctions and a pending congressional rebuke underscores a delicate moment: officials say they seek a quick, decisive outcome, but lawmakers and regional actors are preparing for a longer, risk-filled period if diplomacy falters.

Tensions in the Middle East have escalated further after former US President Donald Trump claimed that Chinese President Xi Jinping has expressed willingness to help keep the Strait of Hormuz open amid growing geopolitical instability involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. The remarks have added a new diplomatic dimension to an already fragile global energy situation.

In an interview with Fox News, Trump stated that Xi Jinping had indirectly conveyed support for efforts to ensure uninterrupted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes. According to Trump, China has a strong interest in maintaining stability in the region due to its heavy dependence on Iranian crude oil imports.

“Xi Jinping wants some kind of agreement between the United States and Iran. If I can help, I would like to help,” Trump said, quoting the Chinese leadership’s position. He further added that countries heavily reliant on Iranian oil naturally prefer that the Strait of Hormuz remains open and secure for uninterrupted trade flows.

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow maritime passage connecting the Persian Gulf with the Arabian Sea, handles nearly a fifth of global oil shipments. Any disruption in this corridor has historically led to volatility in global crude oil prices and triggered fears of supply shortages across Asia, Europe, and other major importing regions.

Alongside Trump’s remarks, Iran has introduced new operational protocols for vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. According to reports from Iranian state-linked sources, all commercial ships navigating the route are now required to comply with enhanced monitoring and clearance procedures under Iranian oversight. Tehran has framed these measures as necessary for national security amid rising regional tensions.

Iran has also intensified its diplomatic outreach, urging BRICS member countries to openly condemn the United States and Israel for what it describes as violations of international law and aggressive actions in the region. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi made the appeal during a recent BRICS meeting, arguing that global institutions have failed to address escalating instability in West Asia.

The situation has already begun affecting maritime movement. Reports suggest that several vessels have altered their routes due to security concerns. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that increased tensions in the Strait have led to at least 70 commercial ships adjusting their planned passages, reflecting growing uncertainty among global shipping operators.

In a separate incident that highlights the fragility of the region, a cargo vessel reportedly linked to Gujarat was damaged near Oman under unclear circumstances involving a suspected drone or missile strike. All 14 crew members were safely rescued, but the incident has further heightened fears about the safety of commercial shipping in the area.

China’s role in the evolving situation is being closely watched by global analysts. As one of the largest importers of Iranian oil, Beijing has a strategic interest in ensuring stability in the Strait of Hormuz. Any disruption could significantly impact its energy supply chain and manufacturing sector. While China has not officially confirmed Trump’s claim, its diplomatic engagements in the region have consistently emphasized de-escalation and dialogue.

Experts believe that if major powers like China actively engage in mediation, it could reduce tensions between the United States and Iran. However, they also warn that competing geopolitical interests may complicate any coordinated solution. The Strait of Hormuz remains a sensitive geopolitical chokepoint where even minor incidents can escalate into broader conflicts affecting global markets.

Oil prices have already shown volatility in response to recent developments. Traders are closely monitoring supply risks, with concerns that prolonged instability could push crude prices higher and contribute to inflationary pressures worldwide. Energy-importing countries, particularly in Asia, are expected to be the most affected if disruptions continue.

Iran’s new regulatory stance, combined with increased naval presence and diplomatic pressure campaigns, signals a more assertive phase in its regional policy. At the same time, US and allied forces continue to emphasize freedom of navigation in international waters, maintaining a delicate balance to avoid direct confrontation.

The coming weeks are likely to be critical in determining whether diplomatic intervention can stabilize the situation or whether tensions in the Strait of Hormuz will further escalate into a wider geopolitical crisis. For now, global markets, shipping companies, and governments remain on high alert as developments unfold.

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US President Donald Trump sent his congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the BJP scored a huge win in West Bengal and Assam. In a WhatsApp message from May 6, Trump called the victory "historic" and "decisive," and he even said, "India is lucky to have you as leader."

The BJP’s win in West Bengal marks a big political shift—finally breaking Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress’s 15-year grip on the state. According to White House spokesman Kush Desai, Trump admires the clarity of Modi’s win.

This message isn’t just about politics; it’s part of a warm relationship between Trump and Modi. They've talked plenty about global security and trade, and now, Trump’s taking the extra step to comment on state elections, not just national ones. It shows how much attention India’s changing political scene is grabbing around the world.