Explore

Rapid Read Rapid Read
Iraq's Prime Minister Visits Iran Amidst Diplomatic Balancing Act

Iraq's Prime Minister Visits Iran Amidst Diplomatic Balancing Act

Iraq's newly appointed Prime Minister, Ali al-Zaidi, has arrived in Iran following his first official visit to the United States. This diplomatic tour underscores Iraq's ongoing challenge of maintaining balanced relations with both Washington and Tehran, two nations that have significantly influenced Iraq's political and economic landscape since 2003. Al-Zaidi's visit to Iran comes after securing agreements with the U.S. aimed at shifting Iraq's relationship from a security focus to economic collaboration. The visit to Tehran is expected to address issues such as the management of Iran-aligned armed groups in Iraq and the broader regional dynamics involving Gulf Arab states and Turkey.
Rapid Read Rapid Read
House Passes Iran War Powers Resolution Limiting President Trump's Military Actions

House Passes Iran War Powers Resolution Limiting President Trump's Military Actions

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a resolution aimed at limiting President Trump's authority to conduct military operations in Iran. The resolution, which passed with a 214-208 vote, calls for the cessation of U.S. military involvement in Iran without explicit congressional approval. This legislative move comes amid ongoing military engagements in Iran, which have resulted in the deaths of four American service members. The resolution saw bipartisan support, with four Republican representatives joining Democrats in the vote. This marks the second time in recent months that the House has passed such a measure, reflecting growing concern over the executive branch's military actions without legislative oversight.
Rapid Read Rapid Read
U.S. House Approves $1.15 Trillion Defense Bill to Enhance Military Cooperation with Israel

U.S. House Approves $1.15 Trillion Defense Bill to Enhance Military Cooperation with Israel

The U.S. House of Representatives has approved a $1.15 trillion defense bill that aims to expand military cooperation with Israel. The bill includes plans for joint projects in missile defense, drone technology, and artificial intelligence. This move has sparked criticism from some lawmakers and advocacy groups who argue that it could exacerbate political divisions over U.S. aid to Israel. The bill's passage reflects ongoing debates about the U.S.'s role in international military alliances and its implications for domestic and foreign policy.
Rapid Read Rapid Read
Jared Kushner Proposes New Gaza Aid Strategy, Challenges UN Practices

Jared Kushner Proposes New Gaza Aid Strategy, Challenges UN Practices

Jared Kushner, son-in-law of US President Trump, has proposed a new approach to financial support for Gaza during a meeting with European and Arab ministers. Kushner criticized existing aid initiatives, suggesting they inadvertently support Hamas, and called for a shift in strategy to ensure aid does not fund militant activities. He emphasized the need for demilitarization in Gaza, advocating for a 'one government with one gun' principle. Kushner's remarks suggest a move away from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), which could create tensions with the EU, a major donor to the agency. The meeting launched a nearly €900 million recovery package for Gaza, with Kushner highlighting the role of Arab states in rebuilding efforts.
AP News AP News
Trump administration pushes ahead with plans to reopen the US embassy in Libya

Trump administration pushes ahead with plans to reopen the US embassy in Libya

The State Department has informed Congress that it plans to move ahead with the potential reopening of the U.S. Embassy in Libya
AP News AP News
The Latest: Hegseth estimates Iran war has cost $37.5B so far

The Latest: Hegseth estimates Iran war has cost $37.5B so far

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says the Iran war has cost $37.5 billion, so far
Rapid Read Rapid Read
US and Saudi Arabia Sign Nuclear Cooperation Deal to Enhance Nonproliferation Standards

US and Saudi Arabia Sign Nuclear Cooperation Deal to Enhance Nonproliferation Standards

The United States and Saudi Arabia have entered into a civilian nuclear cooperation agreement, as announced by the Trump administration. This deal, hailed as 'historic' by the US Department of Energy, involves American companies providing nuclear technology to Saudi Arabia. The agreement is structured under Section 123 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, known as a 123 agreement, and includes a bilateral safeguards agreement. The deal is part of a broader effort to strengthen US-Saudi commercial relations and is expected to create jobs in the US. The agreement will be submitted to Congress for review. While the deal is intended to reinforce global nonproliferation standards, there are concerns about potential uranium enrichment by Saudi Arabia, which could face opposition in Washington.
AP News AP News
What to know about the key challenges Andy Burnham faces as UK prime minister

What to know about the key challenges Andy Burnham faces as UK prime minister

Andy Burnham faces major challenges ahead as the latest British prime minister to take up residence in 10 Downing Street
Reuters Reuters
Lebanon's Aoun, Trump discuss disarming Hezbollah

Lebanon's Aoun, Trump discuss disarming Hezbollah

By Nandita Bose, Maya Gebeily and Tom Perry WASHINGTON/BEIRUT, July 21 (Reuters) - Lebanese President Joseph Aoun met U.S.
AP News AP News
Iran's demands over the Strait of Hormuz would set a dangerous precedent, Rubio tells ASEAN leaders

Iran's demands over the Strait of Hormuz would set a dangerous precedent, Rubio tells ASEAN leaders

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has warned that Iran's demand to control the Strait of Hormuz threatens the global economy and freedom of navigation
Rapid Read Rapid Read
President Trump Faces Potential 'Forever War' in Iran Amid Escalating Conflict

President Trump Faces Potential 'Forever War' in Iran Amid Escalating Conflict

President Trump has initiated a military conflict with Iran, which began nearly five months ago with the aim of achieving a swift victory. Despite initial promises of a decisive win, the situation has escalated into a prolonged conflict, reminiscent of the 'forever wars' in Iraq and Afghanistan. The conflict has seen a series of retaliatory attacks between the U.S. and Iran, including missile strikes and airstrikes. A ceasefire agreement reached in mid-June has collapsed, leading to renewed hostilities. The U.S. has imposed a naval blockade, and Iran has retaliated by targeting oil tankers and U.S. military bases. The conflict has significantly impacted global oil prices, which have surged past $90 a barrel, disrupting the global economy.