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

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

Tariffs Linked to Drone Specifications

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

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

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

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

New Rules to Take Effect in Stages

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

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

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

Allied Countries Also Face Duties

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

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

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

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

China Faces Greater Pressure

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

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

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

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

Ukraine War Highlights Drone Risks

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

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

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

Industry Could Face Higher Costs

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

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

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

What Are Unmanned Aircraft Systems?

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

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

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

India and the United States remain committed to advancing their bilateral trade agreement despite proposed US legislation that could impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on countries that are among the largest buyers of Russian oil and gas, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal said on Thursday.

Agrawal played down concerns over the proposed legislation, describing it as part of the US domestic legislative process while emphasising that trade negotiations between New Delhi and Washington continue.

Trade Talks Remain on Track

Asked about the potential impact of the proposed Russia-related tariffs on India, Agrawal declined to comment directly on the legislation.

He said the matter was currently part of the US legislative process and should be viewed in that context.

At the same time, the Commerce Secretary stressed that India remains engaged with the US administration on the trade agreement and that communication between the two sides continues regularly.

According to Agrawal, both countries remain committed to moving ahead with the agreement.

US Russia Tariff Bill

The comments come days after the US Senate passed a Russia sanctions bill that could give President Donald Trump the authority to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on countries that rank among the five largest purchasers of Russian oil and gas.

The legislation is yet to clear the US House of Representatives, meaning it has not completed the American legislative process.

The proposed measure has attracted attention in India because Russia remains an important source of crude oil for Indian refiners.

India-US BTA Negotiations

India and the US have been negotiating a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) aimed at expanding market access and strengthening economic ties between the two countries.

Negotiations have focused on several areas, including market access, digital trade, supply chain resilience and the reduction of non-tariff barriers.

Strategic sectors have also been part of the discussions as both countries seek to deepen their economic relationship.

During US Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer's visit to New Delhi from June 22 to 24, he held discussions with Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on key elements of the proposed agreement.

The two sides had said substantial progress had been made by their negotiating teams.

Interim Trade Framework

India and the US had earlier announced a framework for an interim agreement in February covering reciprocal and mutually beneficial trade.

The framework was presented as part of a broader effort to increase bilateral trade while negotiations on the larger BTA continued.

Both countries have said the eventual agreement should be commercially meaningful and provide benefits for businesses, farmers, workers and consumers.

Russian Oil Adds Fresh Pressure

The proposed US tariff mechanism has introduced another potential complication into the trade negotiations.

India has continued purchasing Russian crude because of factors including competitive pricing and the importance of securing adequate energy supplies.

Washington's proposed measures could therefore create additional pressure on countries maintaining significant trade in Russian energy.

However, Agrawal's remarks indicate that New Delhi does not currently view the proposed legislation as preventing progress on the wider India-US trade negotiations.

Earlier this week, US Presidential Counsellor Peter Navarro said that President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have a “very good working relationship” and would resolve issues concerning tariffs linked to Russian oil.

Focus Remains on Trade Agreement

For now, India and the US are continuing their engagement on the bilateral trade agreement while the proposed Russia-related legislation moves through the US Congress.

The next stage of the legislative process in Washington, along with the outcome of ongoing trade negotiations, will determine whether the issue creates additional pressure on bilateral economic relations.

Agrawal's comments nevertheless underline New Delhi's position that the broader trade dialogue with Washington remains active and both sides continue to work towards an agreement.

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

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

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

Hegseth Defends Blockade

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

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

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

Trump Claims Hormuz Control

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

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

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

Conflict Disrupts Energy Routes

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

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

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

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

Commercial Ships Intercepted

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

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

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

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

Iran Continues Retaliation

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

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

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

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

Pressure Mounts on Trump

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

India Among Economies Under Scrutiny

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

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

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

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

Washington Plans AI-Based Checks

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

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

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

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

Supply Chains Shifted After Tariff War

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

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

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

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

Potential Impact on Global Trade

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

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

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

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

Trump Administration Tightens Tariff Enforcement

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

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

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

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

Iranian state media has mocked US President Donald Trump following reports that he was secretly moved from Air Force One to a smaller government aircraft during his visit to Turkey last month after US authorities received an alleged threat involving a shoulder-fired missile.

The reported security operation has been portrayed by Iranian media as evidence of Tehran's military reach and has become the latest point of tension between Washington and Tehran amid the ongoing conflict.

Trump Aircraft Switch Reported

According to US media reports, Trump and a small group of aides were secretly transferred from the presidential aircraft to a smaller C-32A government jet while preparing to leave Ankara on July 8.

The transfer was reportedly carried out using a catering truck in an effort to conceal the president's movements.

Air Force One later departed separately, carrying senior administration officials, White House staff and members of the travelling press corps.

The unusual arrangement was first reported by The Washington Post and subsequently drew attention in Iranian media.

Security Threat Behind Move

The reported aircraft switch followed what US authorities considered a credible and imminent threat that Trump's presidential aircraft could be targeted by a shoulder-fired missile.

According to reports, the US Secret Service launched the operation to protect the president and prevent potential attackers from determining his movements as he left Turkey.

The New York Times reported that US officials were particularly concerned after allegedly learning that Iranian operatives knew where Trump was staying in Ankara, including the floor of his hotel.

Neither the White House nor Tehran had officially commented on the reported threat or the aircraft switch at the time of the reports.

Iranian State Media Mocks Trump

Iranian state television seized on the episode to ridicule the US president.

A presenter described the incident as a source of embarrassment for Trump and suggested that the security measures demonstrated the extent of concern over Iran's military capabilities.

The episode has provided Iranian hardliners with an opportunity to portray Trump as vulnerable despite Washington's continued military pressure on Tehran.

Iran's embassy in South Africa also joined the criticism on X, posting a meme depicting Trump inside a catering box.

The post mocked the reported use of a catering truck during the aircraft transfer and suggested that Trump could eventually be hidden in a trash container.

Tensions Between Washington and Tehran

The incident comes against the backdrop of continued confrontation between the US and Iran.

Washington and Tehran remain involved in efforts to find a lasting settlement to the conflict, while attempts to revive an interim agreement reached earlier have reportedly made little progress.

The latest reports have also revived attention around previous allegations of Iranian plots against Trump.

In 2024, the US Justice Department charged an Iranian national over an alleged plot to assassinate Trump, who was then president-elect. US authorities said the alleged operation had been ordered by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Iran rejected the allegations at the time.

Iranian Hardliners Welcome Reports

Analysts said the reported security measures were likely to be welcomed by Iranian hardliners who have repeatedly called for retaliation following the deaths of senior Iranian political and military figures.

Ali Vaez, deputy programme director for the Middle East and North Africa at the International Crisis Group, said Iranian hardliners were likely to view the episode as evidence that Washington was concerned about Trump's safety.

The incident has therefore taken on significance beyond the aircraft transfer itself, becoming part of the wider information and propaganda battle between the two countries.

Trump’s Earlier Iraq Experience

Iranian commentators have also linked the latest episode to Trump's previous visit to Iraq in 2018.

During that trip to the Ain al-Asad air base, Trump travelled under extensive security precautions. He later described the flight as unusually secretive, recalling that the aircraft's windows were covered and the cabin was kept dark.

Iranian commentators have used those remarks to draw parallels between Trump's earlier security arrangements and the reported aircraft switch in Turkey.

For now, the reported threat and aircraft operation remain the subject of media reports, with no detailed public confirmation from the White House or Iranian authorities.

A series of major developments dominated international headlines on Wednesday, with US President Donald Trump announcing the departure of White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, Iran rejecting Washington’s claim of control over the Strait of Hormuz, and Pakistan carrying out fresh airstrikes in Balochistan amid renewed attacks by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA).

Meanwhile, two US Army soldiers were killed in an Apache helicopter crash in Texas, while Washington announced plans to withdraw its remaining troops from Iraq by September 30. Europe also witnessed a rare total solar eclipse, while fresh developments emerged in the investigation into the 2025 Red Fort blast in Delhi.

Karoline Leavitt to Leave White House

US President Donald Trump has announced that White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt will step down from her position by the end of August.

Trump said the 28-year-old official was leaving the role to spend more time with her family following the birth of her daughter, Viviana, in May. He said Leavitt would continue as one of his senior outside advisers.

Leavitt also confirmed her decision, saying the demands of the press secretary's job made it difficult for her to give sufficient time and attention to her two young children.

She became the youngest person to serve as White House press secretary when Trump appointed her at the age of 27.

Iran Rejects Trump’s Hormuz Claim

Tensions around the Strait of Hormuz remain high after Trump claimed that the United States had “total control” over the strategic waterway.

Iran rejected the statement, with the Persian Gulf Strait Authority saying that claims by US officials had not changed the situation and that the strait would remain blocked until Tehran's conditions were accepted.

Iranian officials have linked reopening the waterway to demands including an end to the US war and blockade, the release of frozen Iranian assets and a wider regional ceasefire.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important energy routes, carrying a significant share of global petroleum trade.

Pakistan Strikes Balochistan

Pakistan has launched fresh airstrikes in Balochistan following a series of attacks claimed by the BLA.

According to the information provided, intelligence sources said strikes in Surab and Gwadar killed at least 21 civilians, including women and children. The claims could not immediately be independently verified.

The BLA has claimed responsibility for multiple attacks targeting Pakistani security forces and said it had killed 32 soldiers during attacks this month.

The insurgent group reportedly attacked police and military targets at several locations, including Chagai, Jhao, Khuzdar, Wadh and Manguchar.

Two US Soldiers Killed

Two US Army soldiers were killed after an AH-64E Apache attack helicopter crashed near Salado in Texas during routine operations.

The helicopter, based at Fort Hood, crashed into a rural field in Bell County, triggering a large grass fire. Nearby residents were briefly evacuated as emergency teams worked to contain the blaze.

The identities of the soldiers had not been released at the time of the report. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

US to Leave Iraq by September 30

Iraq has announced September 30 as the deadline for the withdrawal of remaining US military forces from the country.

The announcement marks the planned end of a US military presence that began with the 2003 invasion of Iraq.

Washington and Baghdad had previously agreed to wind down the US-led military mission against Islamic State. Iraqi security forces are expected to take the lead in counterterrorism operations.

The US military presence in Iraq expanded significantly after Islamic State captured large areas of Iraq and Syria in 2014, before coalition combat operations were formally brought to an end in 2021.

Red Fort Blast Linked to AQIS

A United Nations Security Council monitoring team has attributed the November 2025 blast near Delhi's Red Fort to Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS), according to its latest assessment.

The finding adds an international dimension to India's ongoing investigation into the terror-related explosion.

The UN report also warned that Al-Qaeda and Islamic State-linked groups continue to explore chemical and biological capabilities and are increasingly examining cryptocurrencies as a means of financing operations.

Security has been significantly tightened around the Red Fort ahead of India's Independence Day celebrations.

Air India Pilot Under DGCA Probe

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation is investigating an alleged safety incident involving an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi.

According to reports, the pilot-in-command allegedly left the cockpit during the flight, entered the passenger cabin and asked crew members for a lighter to smoke. The flight had also reportedly experienced a sudden altitude loss that left passengers and crew injured.

The pilot later tested positive for marijuana in a confirmatory laboratory test, according to reports cited in the supplied material.

Both pilots have been removed from flying duties pending the investigation. Air India has said it maintains a zero-tolerance approach to conduct that could compromise passenger safety.

Europe Watches Total Eclipse

A rare total solar eclipse swept across parts of Europe on August 12, drawing large crowds in Spain and Iceland.

In Spain, spectators gathered at designated viewing locations as the Moon completely covered the Sun for a brief period, turning the sky dark.

Authorities had prepared for millions of visitors, particularly in rural regions along the eclipse path. Cloud cover limited visibility in parts of Iceland, although some observers were able to see the phenomenon through breaks in the clouds.

Other Major Global Developments

In other developments, talks between Venezuela's interim government and opposition concluded with agreements on judicial reforms and efforts to access frozen Bank of England funds.

In the United States, Meta faced a major California trial over allegations that Facebook and Instagram were deliberately designed to be addictive to children.

A Chicago jury also awarded $29 million to the family of Michael Ryan, a UN World Food Programme engineer killed in the 2019 Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 MAX crash.

Meanwhile, rescue operations continued in Colombia after a devastating earthquake, with the reported death toll reaching 265 and hundreds of people still missing.

Iran has rejected US President Donald Trump’s claim that the United States has “total control” over the Strait of Hormuz, insisting that the strategic waterway remains blocked and will not be reopened until Tehran’s conditions are met.

The latest exchange comes amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran over the strategically important maritime passage, through which a significant share of global oil and petroleum trade traditionally moves.

Iran Says Blockade Continues

In a statement posted on X, the Persian Gulf Strait Authority dismissed claims by Trump and other US officials that the Strait of Hormuz was no longer blocked.

The authority said that statements from American officials had not changed the situation on the ground and reiterated that the waterway would remain closed until Iran’s demands were accepted.

The Iranian position was reiterated hours after Trump claimed that Washington had established “total control” over the Strait and intended to maintain it.

Trump Claims ‘Wall of Steel’

Trump said on his social media platform, Truth Social, that the United States had “total control” over the Strait of Hormuz.

He described the US naval presence in the region as a “wall of steel”, asserting that Iran had no ability to challenge the American deployment.

Trump also repeated his claim that Iran’s military infrastructure had been severely weakened during the ongoing confrontation.

The US president further accused Iran of spreading what he described as false information and criticised the country’s economic situation.

Tehran Sets Conditions

Iran’s latest response comes as Tehran continues to link the reopening of the Strait to broader political and security demands.

Mohsen Rezaei, the newly appointed head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said Tehran would not fully reopen the waterway until the United States met what Iran described as its conditions.

According to Rezaei, Iran wants Washington to end the war and blockade, release frozen Iranian assets and agree to a region-wide ceasefire covering Lebanon and Gaza.

He said the Strait would remain closed until all the conditions were fulfilled.

US Naval Presence Increases

The dispute has intensified as the United States has expanded its naval presence around the Gulf.

Washington has maintained that ensuring freedom of navigation through the strategically important waterway remains a key security objective.

Iran, meanwhile, has repeatedly warned that maritime traffic could be restricted if pressure from the United States and other external powers continues.

The conflicting claims have created uncertainty for commercial shipping and energy markets, with the Strait of Hormuz remaining a major focus of international attention.

Major Energy Route

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important energy corridors. A substantial portion of global petroleum shipments traditionally passes through the narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman.

Any prolonged disruption could therefore have wider consequences for crude oil supplies, shipping costs and global energy prices.

The ongoing standoff has already contributed to concerns in international markets, with oil prices responding to developments surrounding the Strait and US-Iran negotiations.

No Immediate Resolution

For now, Washington and Tehran remain sharply divided over the status of the waterway.

Trump maintains that the United States has established control and intends to keep it, while Iranian authorities insist that the Strait remains blocked and that reopening it depends on Tehran’s conditions being accepted.

With diplomatic efforts yet to produce a breakthrough, the Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the wider US-Iran confrontation.

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.

The United States is set to withdraw its remaining military forces from Iraq by September 30, 2026, marking the end of a US military presence that began with the 2003 invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein.

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi announced the deadline on Wednesday following a meeting with US Central Command Commander General Brad Cooper. The move follows an agreement between Washington and Baghdad to wind down the US-led military mission against the Islamic State (ISIS).

September 30 Set as Final Deadline

According to a statement from the Iraqi prime minister's office, September 30 will be the "fixed and final date" for ending the military mission of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS in Iraq and completing the departure of coalition forces.

The statement said October 1 would mark a new phase for Iraq, with the country free of foreign military forces.

The Iraqi government also linked the withdrawal to its objective of ensuring that weapons remain under the exclusive control of the state, describing this as an important condition for the country's next phase of development and stability.

US Confirms Planned Withdrawal

A US official also confirmed to The Associated Press that Washington expects to complete the withdrawal by September 30. However, the official did not disclose how many American troops currently remain in Iraq or where personnel could be redeployed.

The official said the United States, Iraq and coalition partners had made significant progress against ISIS and that Iraqi security forces would now take the lead in counterterrorism operations.

This includes Iraq's national security forces as well as the Peshmerga and other security forces in the semi-autonomous Kurdistan Region.

From Invasion to Counterterrorism

The US military presence in Iraq has gone through several major phases since the 2003 invasion.

American troop numbers peaked at more than 170,000 in 2007, during the height of counterinsurgency operations. The last US combat troops left Iraq in December 2011.

However, the rise of ISIS in 2014 changed the situation. After the extremist group captured large parts of Iraq and Syria, US forces returned at the request of the Iraqi government as part of an international campaign against ISIS.

Coalition military operations against ISIS eventually ended in 2021, although American personnel continued to remain in Iraq in an advisory and counterterrorism capacity.

US Bases Came Under Attack

The remaining US military presence has faced renewed security challenges in recent months.

American bases in Iraq have been targeted repeatedly since the United States and Israel launched military operations against Iran on February 28. Most US troops had already withdrawn from bases across Iraq last year, but a presence remained in the northern Kurdish region.

The final withdrawal therefore comes amid a broader reshaping of the US military footprint in West Asia.

Focus Shifts to Bilateral Ties

The Iraqi government said its discussions with the United States now point towards a relationship focused increasingly on economic cooperation, security coordination and mutual sovereignty rather than a large-scale foreign military presence.

The announcement represents a major transition for Iraq after more than two decades of American military involvement.

For Washington, the withdrawal reflects the changing nature of its mission after the territorial defeat of ISIS. For Baghdad, it represents an effort to assert greater control over national security while maintaining cooperation with the United States in other areas.

The September 30 deadline will now be closely watched as Iraq prepares for the final phase of the US military withdrawal.

Ford Motor is planning to move production of some Lincoln models from China to the United States starting in 2030, as rising tariffs and growing trade tensions between Washington and Beijing push the automaker to reduce its dependence on Chinese manufacturing.

Ford CEO Jim Farley described the decision as “difficult but necessary”, saying the move would strengthen the company’s US manufacturing base. Ford has not yet disclosed which US plant will produce the affected Lincoln models.

Tariffs Drive Production Shift

The decision comes as vehicles imported from China face significantly higher duties in the US. Ford said the tariff on the Lincoln Nautilus, its primary vehicle imported from China, currently stands at 52.5 per cent.

Farley told Reuters that tariffs were the main reason behind the production shift, while restrictions on Chinese automotive technology also influenced the company's decision.

“We made this decision as soon as the policy of the administration was set,” Farley said, referring to the tariff policies introduced under US President Donald Trump.

The move reflects the growing impact of US trade policy on decisions traditionally driven by manufacturing costs, logistics and consumer demand.

Nautilus Faces China-Related Rules

The Lincoln Nautilus has become a particular focus because it is manufactured in China for the US market.

Ford previously said the vehicle's software was developed in the United States but installed in China. This raised questions over whether the vehicle would require approval under Washington's restrictions on certain Chinese-connected automotive technology.

The US has introduced its Connected Vehicle Rule, which restricts the use of certain Chinese technology and hardware in vehicles sold in the country on national-security grounds.

Ford had sought authorisation from the US Commerce Department for potentially affected vehicles. However, the company later said discussions with the department established that the Lincoln Nautilus no longer required such authorisation to remain on sale in the US.

Ford sold around 34,000 Nautilus vehicles in the United States last year.

US Manufacturing Gets Push

Ford's decision comes as the Trump administration encourages companies to manufacture more products domestically and reduce reliance on overseas supply chains.

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said domestic manufacturing would give Ford an advantage as the company expands production in the United States.

The strategy is part of a broader effort by Washington to reduce economic and technological dependence on China, particularly in industries considered strategically important.

For Ford, shifting production to the US could increase manufacturing costs. However, it would also reduce the company's exposure to tariffs and some regulatory uncertainties surrounding Chinese production.

GM Also Moving Production

Ford is not the only major US automaker adjusting its manufacturing strategy.

General Motors has announced plans to move production of its Buick Envision from China to the United States beginning in 2028.

The decisions by Ford and GM indicate that tariffs and technology restrictions are increasingly influencing where vehicles destined for the US market are manufactured.

The changes could also affect suppliers and logistics networks that have developed around China's automotive manufacturing industry.

US-China Trade Fight Widens

The automotive sector has become an important part of the broader economic confrontation between the United States and China.

Washington has introduced tariffs, investment restrictions and technology-related measures aimed at limiting China's influence in strategically important industries.

The US Connected Vehicle Rule is one such measure, targeting certain Chinese-linked software and hardware used in vehicles.

US lawmakers are also considering additional restrictions. A proposal approved by the Senate Commerce Committee in July would prevent companies more than 15 per cent owned by Chinese entities from selling vehicles in the US if the measure becomes law.

Such restrictions could affect several international automakers with Chinese ownership or investment links.

Lincoln Already Manufactures in US

Lincoln already has a significant manufacturing presence in the United States.

Ford produces the Lincoln Navigator at its Louisville, Kentucky, facility and the Lincoln Aviator at its Chicago Assembly Plant. Both models are also exported to markets including Canada, Mexico and the Middle East.

The planned transfer of additional Lincoln production from China would therefore expand the brand's existing US manufacturing footprint.

Ford has yet to specify which Lincoln models will be moved or identify the US facilities that will receive the production.

Supply Chains Enter New Phase

Ford's decision highlights how geopolitical tensions are increasingly reshaping global automotive supply chains.

For years, automakers have relied on international manufacturing networks to control costs and access major markets. However, tariffs, technology restrictions and national-security concerns are now becoming equally important factors in production decisions.

Moving Lincoln production to the US could help Ford limit the impact of future tariffs on China-made vehicles, while also aligning the company more closely with Washington's push for domestic manufacturing.

The shift planned for 2030 is therefore another sign that the US-China trade dispute is moving beyond tariffs and into the structure of global manufacturing itself.