US President Donald Trump has backed proposed legislation that could expose India to tariffs of up to 500 per cent over its continued purchases of Russian oil, according to a White House official. Responding to a query from ANI, the official confirmed Trump's support for the proposed Sanctioning Russia Act, saying simply, “President Trump supports the bill.” The bill was pushed by late US Senator Lindsey Graham and his sudden death has renewed support for the bill. If approved by Congress, the US president will be authorised to impose tariffs of up to 500 per cent on imports from countries that continue to purchase oil, gas and other energy products from Russia. India and China have been identified as top countries in this list.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-decodes-why-is-the-us-threatening-india-with-fresh-12-5-tariff-under-section-301-which-industries-stand-to-lose-the-most-1783489179101">WION Decodes: Why is the US threatening India with fresh 12.5% tariff under Section 301? Which industries stand to lose the most?</a><h2>So, how has New Delhi maintained a balance between Russia and the US?</h2>India has maintained that its decision to purchase oil from Russia is based on its own energy needs. In the present scenario too, India can continue its policy of strategic autonomy but it may not be a strategically safest option with increased pressure from the US. While the US remains an indispensable partner in technology, trade and countering China's influence, the "Trump 2.0" approach has become more transactional to push allies into closer alignment with Washington.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-news-us-tariff-threat-india-moves-to-ban-imports-made-using-forced-labour-1784090282657">Amid new US tariff threat, India moves to ban imports made using forced labour</a>&nbsp;At the same time, India has chosen not to distance itself from Russia, which continues to serve as a key strategic counterweight to China and remains a major supplier of discounted crude oil and military equipment, with more than 60% of India's defence systems of Russian origin. This places New Delhi in a delicate position, where any move towards one power risks being viewed as a shift away from the other.&nbsp;To reduce this pressure, India has expanded ties with middle powers such as Europe and the UK while also pursuing a limited thaw with China to ease border tensions. This approach allows New Delhi to retain diplomatic flexibility and avoid being sidelined in major geopolitical negotiations. India sees strategic autonomy not as neutrality or isolation, but as the ability to maintain independent decision-making.&nbsp;The challenge has become more acute after a temporary waiver issued by the US Treasury, which had allowed India's purchases of Russian crude without attracting sanctions, expired on June 17, 2026. With the waiver no longer in effect, Indian imports of Russian oil now face greater legal and policy uncertainty, adding another layer of complexity to India's foreign policy and energy security.

Trump has backed a proposed sanctions bill that could allow tariffs of up to 500% on imports from countries, including India, that continue buying Russian oil and gas. The legislation aims to increase pressure on Moscow, while posing fresh challenges for India's strategic balancing.

US President Donald Trump has backed proposed legislation that could expose India to tariffs of up to 500 per cent over its continued purchases of Russian oil, according to a White House official. Responding to a query from ANI, the official confirmed Trump's support for the proposed Sanctioning Russia Act, saying simply, “President Trump supports the bill.” The bill was pushed by late US Senator Lindsey Graham and his sudden death has renewed support for the bill. If approved by Congress, the US president will be authorised to impose tariffs of up to 500 per cent on imports from countries that continue to purchase oil, gas and other energy products from Russia. India and China have been identified as top countries in this list. Also Read: WION Decodes: Why is the US threatening India with fresh 12.5% tariff under Section 301? Which industries stand to lose the most? So, how has New Delhi maintained a balance between Russia and the US? India has maintained that its decision to purchase oil from Russia is based on its own energy needs. In the present scenario too, India can continue its policy of strategic autonomy but it may not be a strategically safest option with increased pressure from the US. While the US remains an indispensable partner in technology, trade and countering China's influence, the "Trump 2.0" approach has become more transactional to push allies into closer alignment with Washington. Also Read: Amid new US tariff threat, India moves to ban imports made using forced labour At the same time, India has chosen not to distance itself from Russia, which continues to serve as a key strategic counterweight to China and remains a major supplier of discounted crude oil and military equipment, with more than 60% of India's defence systems of Russian origin. This places New Delhi in a delicate position, where any move towards one power risks being viewed as a shift away from the other. To reduce this pressure, India has expanded ties with middle powers such as Europe and the UK while also pursuing a limited thaw with China to ease border tensions. This approach allows New Delhi to retain diplomatic flexibility and avoid being sidelined in major geopolitical negotiations. India sees strategic autonomy not as neutrality or isolation, but as the ability to maintain independent decision-making. The challenge has become more acute after a temporary waiver issued by the US Treasury, which had allowed India's purchases of Russian crude without attracting sanctions, expired on June 17, 2026. With the waiver no longer in effect, Indian imports of Russian oil now face greater legal and policy uncertainty, adding another layer of complexity to India's foreign policy and energy security.

Trump has backed a proposed sanctions bill that could allow tariffs of up to 500 per cent on imports from countries, including India, that continue buying Russian oil and gas. The legislation aims to increase pressure on Moscow, while posing fresh challenges for India

Can India balance ties with the US and Russia amid fresh tariff threats from America?

Top Speed News:
A. West Asia & US-Iran Conflict

US continues fresh airstrikes on Iran for the fourth consecutive day.
Trump warns Iran of wider strikes on power plants and bridges.
Iran claims drone attacks on US bases across the Gulf.
Bahrain says Iranian attacks targeted US Fifth Fleet facilities.
Strait of Hormuz crisis fuels global oil market fears.

B. Russia-Ukraine War

Russia attacks merchant ships in Ukraine's Black Sea corridor.

C. FIFA World Cup 2026

Spain defeat France 2-0 to reach the FIFA World Cup Final.
England face Argentina for the final spot in the World Cup.

D. United States

US House passes bill to make Daylight Saving Time permanent.
San Francisco boat fire leaves one dead and two missing.

E. Latin America

Cuba suffers a third nationwide blackout in less than 10 days.
Colombia rescues 39 hostages from ELN rebels.
Spanish man arrested with cocaine at a Colombia airport.

F. Health

WHO launches the first Ebola antiviral exposure trial in DR Congo.

G. Technology

UK study links social media limits to better teen mental health.
Switzerland probes Google over Android search engine changes.
White House launches AI cybersecurity coordination initiative.

H. Business & Economy

Asian markets rise as US inflation eases.

Trump expands Iran strikes | Hormuz crisis | Bahrain attack | Russia-Ukraine war | World Cup final


President Donald Trump has responded to growing conspiracy theories surrounding the sudden death of Senator Lindsey Graham, saying the FBI is "wasting time" investigating the matter. The comments came after FBI agents were seen outside Graham's residence following his death. According to the Washington Chief Medical Examiner, Lindsey Graham died from a ruptured aorta linked to hardened arteries. However, the FBI's involvement and public statements have fueled speculation, prompting renewed calls for transparency.

Trump breaks silence on Lindsey Graham's death | FBI probe sparks conspiracy theories

US President Donald Trump met Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi in the White House on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. Trump called him a “fantastic champion, a new champion." Ali al Zaidi called the visit a " no other visit and called it the beginning of an “economic partnership”. Ali al-Zaidi, often dubbed as the Donald Trump of Iraq, due to his background as a wealthy businessman and political outsider who vaulted straight into his country's highest office, pledged to boost the economic ties between the two nations and Iraq's oil output.“Iraq has tremendous potential because of their oil and because of other things, but because of their oil, and we’re going to be doing a lot of deals,” said Donald Trump. Donald Trump heavily backed Ali al-Zaidi's bid to become Prime Minister of Iraq by blocking the pro-Iranian former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's candidacy in January 2026.&nbsp;“Iraq has tremendous potential because of their oil and because of other things, but because of their oil, and we’re going to be doing a lot of deals,” Trump said. “We’re going to create a lot of jobs for both countries, and we’re going to be taking out a lot of oil. A lot of oil is coming out.”Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi reiterated the importance of Kurdistan to Iraq, likening it to a limb of a body. He told reporters that the “US forces will be out of Iraq” by September 30 of this year. US forces are largely stationed at the Iraqi Kurdistan region. US President Trump again made his earlier claim before his time in office that attacking Iraq was a mistake. Iraq has long been the battleground of Tehran and Washington, and ISIL (ISIS), which many claimed was a result of the US invasion.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kuwait-hostile-targets-iran-attacks-us-military-bases-explosions-1784045139098">Iran claims drone and missile strikes on US bases in Kuwait; explosions reported in Qeshm and Kish island</a>"If you remember, even though I was a civilian... I used to say, 'Don't go into Iraq. Don't attack Iraq.' Frankly, they attacked the wrong country, and they did a lot of damage," said Trump.“The ⁠damage suffered by Iraq exceeds $400 billion, and to this day, some ⁠Iraqis still have destroyed homes ⁠and are living in camps. I have a plan to return them to their homes, and that is why I ‌want a fair share for Iraq in OPEC,” said al-Zaidi&nbsp;Trump also discussed the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting that no one should be allowed to charge fees in the strategic waterway. This comes as Trump backed off on his claim of charging 20 per cent fees on vessels crossing Hormuz. But he said that he welcomed investment "in the US in exchange for providing protection for the Strait of Hormuz.”&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump met Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi at the White House to discuss oil production, economic cooperation, US troop withdrawal and the Strait of Hormuz.

US President Donald Trump met Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi in the White House on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. Trump called him a “fantastic champion, a new champion." Ali al Zaidi called the visit a " no other visit and called it the beginning of an “economic partnership”. Ali al-Zaidi, often dubbed as the Donald Trump of Iraq, due to his background as a wealthy businessman and political outsider who vaulted straight into his country's highest office, pledged to boost the economic ties between the two nations and Iraq's oil output. “Iraq has tremendous potential because of their oil and because of other things, but because of their oil, and we’re going to be doing a lot of deals,” said Donald Trump. Donald Trump heavily backed Ali al-Zaidi's bid to become Prime Minister of Iraq by blocking the pro-Iranian former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's candidacy in January 2026. “Iraq has tremendous potential because of their oil and because of other things, but because of their oil, and we’re going to be doing a lot of deals,” Trump said. “We’re going to create a lot of jobs for both countries, and we’re going to be taking out a lot of oil. A lot of oil is coming out.” Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi reiterated the importance of Kurdistan to Iraq, likening it to a limb of a body. He told reporters that the “US forces will be out of Iraq” by September 30 of this year. US forces are largely stationed at the Iraqi Kurdistan region. US President Trump again made his earlier claim before his time in office that attacking Iraq was a mistake. Iraq has long been the battleground of Tehran and Washington, and ISIL (ISIS), which many claimed was a result of the US invasion. Also Read: Iran claims drone and missile strikes on US bases in Kuwait; explosions reported in Qeshm and Kish island "If you remember, even though I was a civilian... I used to say, 'Don't go into Iraq. Don't attack Iraq.' Frankly, they attacked the wrong country, and they did a lot of damage," said Trump. “The ⁠damage suffered by Iraq exceeds $400 billion, and to this day, some ⁠Iraqis still have destroyed homes ⁠and are living in camps. I have a plan to return them to their homes, and that is why I ‌want a fair share for Iraq in OPEC,” said al-Zaidi Trump also discussed the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting that no one should be allowed to charge fees in the strategic waterway. This comes as Trump backed off on his claim of charging 20 per cent fees on vessels crossing Hormuz. But he said that he welcomed investment "in the US in exchange for providing protection for the Strait of Hormuz.”

US President Donald Trump met Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi at the White House to discuss oil production, economic cooperation, US troop withdrawal and the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump, Iraq PM Ali al-Zaidi discuss oil, US troop withdrawal and Strait of Hormuz

President Donald Trump on Tuesday (July 14) walked back his announcement of levying a 20 per cent fee on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, replacing it with "Trade and Investment Deals that the various Gulf States will be making with the United States," while claiming the waterway is open to traffic for all countries except Iran.&nbsp;He reiterated that the United States will impose a strict naval blockade on the Islamic Republic, covering ships "coming to and from Iranian ports, or carrying anything to do with Iranian cargo."&nbsp;"The Strait of Hormuz is open to ALL Ship traffic except for Iran — and that is because of their lying, violent, malicious leadership, which is taking them down the path of TOTAL DESTRUCTION. We will therefore have a FULL Blockade, but only on Ships coming to and from Iranian ports, or carrying anything have to do with Iranian cargo," Trump wrote on Truth Social.&nbsp;On Monday, Trump had declared that Washington was now the "THE GUARDIAN OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT" and would impose hefty fees on ships transiting the waterway to reimburse the United States for protecting the key global oil and gas shipping route.&nbsp;Iran's military command, however, insisted it would not allow the United States to "interfere" in the Strait of Hormuz. It also warned its Gulf neighbours against cooperating with Washington.&nbsp;Trump also claimed that "Oil is flowing like never before" through the contested waterway due to the " awesome Power of the United States Military," specifically mentioning " A special salute to Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Dan Caine, and Commander of the United States Central Command, Admiral Brad Cooper. Because of them, and all members of the Most Powerful Military anywhere in the World."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/multiple-dead-in-brussels-construction-site-fire-search-underway-for-missing-1784037073859">Multiple dead in Brussels construction site fire, search underway for missing</a>&nbsp;Explaining the reason for withdrawing the proposed fee on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said he took the decision "based on highly productive conversations with Middle East leadership." He added that investments by the Gulf states in exchange for removing the fee would be massive and “extraordinarily good for them (Gulf states) and their future.”&nbsp;The president said America has " the largest Dollar Investment into the United States, of any Country in History, but these new Investments will make that Number even larger, and we will see Factories, Plants, and Equipment pour into the United States at Historic levels, which will create additional millions of High Paying AMERICAN Jobs!"&nbsp;Accusing Iran of killing hundreds of thousands of people, including protesters, Trump warned that those days are over.&nbsp;"America is WINNING again, winning like never before. The days of Iran killing hundreds of thousands of people, including 52,000 protestors, are OVER and, most importantly, IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!," the post reads.

Trump scrapped the proposed 20 per cent fee on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, opting instead for Gulf investment deals while imposing a full blockade on Iranian shipping.

President Donald Trump on Tuesday (July 14) walked back his announcement of levying a 20 per cent fee on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, replacing it with "Trade and Investment Deals that the various Gulf States will be making with the United States," while claiming the waterway is open to traffic for all countries except Iran. He reiterated that the United States will impose a strict naval blockade on the Islamic Republic, covering ships "coming to and from Iranian ports, or carrying anything to do with Iranian cargo." "The Strait of Hormuz is open to ALL Ship traffic except for Iran — and that is because of their lying, violent, malicious leadership, which is taking them down the path of TOTAL DESTRUCTION. We will therefore have a FULL Blockade, but only on Ships coming to and from Iranian ports, or carrying anything have to do with Iranian cargo," Trump wrote on Truth Social. On Monday, Trump had declared that Washington was now the "THE GUARDIAN OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT" and would impose hefty fees on ships transiting the waterway to reimburse the United States for protecting the key global oil and gas shipping route. Iran's military command, however, insisted it would not allow the United States to "interfere" in the Strait of Hormuz. It also warned its Gulf neighbours against cooperating with Washington. Trump also claimed that "Oil is flowing like never before" through the contested waterway due to the " awesome Power of the United States Military," specifically mentioning " A special salute to Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Dan Caine, and Commander of the United States Central Command, Admiral Brad Cooper. Because of them, and all members of the Most Powerful Military anywhere in the World." Also Read: Multiple dead in Brussels construction site fire, search underway for missing Explaining the reason for withdrawing the proposed fee on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said he took the decision "based on highly productive conversations with Middle East leadership." He added that investments by the Gulf states in exchange for removing the fee would be massive and “extraordinarily good for them (Gulf states) and their future.” The president said America has " the largest Dollar Investment into the United States, of any Country in History, but these new Investments will make that Number even larger, and we will see Factories, Plants, and Equipment pour into the United States at Historic levels, which will create additional millions of High Paying AMERICAN Jobs!" Accusing Iran of killing hundreds of thousands of people, including protesters, Trump warned that those days are over. "America is WINNING again, winning like never before. The days of Iran killing hundreds of thousands of people, including 52,000 protestors, are OVER and, most importantly, IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!," the post reads.

Trump scrapped the proposed 20 per cent fee on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, opting instead for Gulf investment deals while imposing a full blockade on Iranian shipping.

Trump withdraws 20% Hormuz transit fee, announces full blockade on Iran

U.S. ​President Donald ‌Trump on ​Monday ​told reporters in ⁠the ​Oval ​Office that he wants ​Gulf ​nations to reimburse ‌the ⁠United States for ​helping ​protect ⁠the Strait ​of ​Hormuz.


Trump Seeks Payment From Gulf Allies for Hormuz Security

The&nbsp;biggest winners from the latest&nbsp;oil&nbsp;market turmoil&nbsp;may be the world's largest energy companies. But as&nbsp;profits&nbsp;surge, so does&nbsp;the political&nbsp;pressure. US President Donald Trump has launched a probe into alleged fuel price gouging, while European lawmakers are once again calling for windfall taxes on&nbsp;big&nbsp;oil. The second quarter is expected to be one of the strongest in years for global&nbsp;oil&nbsp;majors.&nbsp;After the closure of the Strait of Hormuz disrupted global&nbsp;oil&nbsp;flows, Brent crude briefly climbed above 100 dollars a barrel, pushing up crude and natural gas prices worldwide. Higher commodity prices are now expected to translate into bumper earnings for the world's largest&nbsp;oil&nbsp;companies, setting the stage for a record quarter across the energy sector.Analysts expect ExxonMobil to report between $16 and $19 billion in second-quarter profit, while Chevron's earnings are projected at nearly $10 billion.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/china-s-110-billion-ai-pharma-boom-could-redefine-the-future-of-medicine-1784010211233">China's $110-billion AI pharma boom could redefine the future of medicine</a>&nbsp;This is more than three times their first-quarter results. US refiners, including Marathon Petroleum and Valero, are also expected to post their strongest&nbsp;profits&nbsp;in years. However, these gains have drawn&nbsp;political&nbsp;scrutiny. President Donald Trump has accused fuel retailers of keeping gasoline prices artificially high despite crude&nbsp;oil&nbsp;prices retreating and has ordered a federal investigation into possible price gouging.&nbsp;At the same time, some European lawmakers are demanding that&nbsp;oil&nbsp;companies contribute more towards climate adaptation measures. The&nbsp;oil&nbsp;industry argues that retail fuel prices do not move in lockstep with crude prices.Refiners say gasoline prices reflect multiple factors, including refining costs, fuel inventories, seasonal demand and supply disruptions. Companies also point to a time lag between changes in crude&nbsp;oil&nbsp;prices and prices at the pump.&nbsp;While gasoline prices in the United States have eased from their recent peaks, they remain higher than a year ago.As&nbsp;oil&nbsp;companies prepare to announce another quarter of exceptionally strong earnings, they also face growing&nbsp;political&nbsp;pressure over consumer fuel costs. This has emerged as a familiar cycle whenever geopolitical&nbsp;shocks send energy markets sharply higher.

Higher commodity prices are now expected to translate into bumper earnings for the world's largest oil companies, setting the stage for a record quarter across the energy sector.

The biggest winners from the latest oil market turmoil may be the world's largest energy companies. But as profits surge, so does the political pressure. US President Donald Trump has launched a probe into alleged fuel price gouging, while European lawmakers are once again calling for windfall taxes on big oil. The second quarter is expected to be one of the strongest in years for global oil majors. After the closure of the Strait of Hormuz disrupted global oil flows, Brent crude briefly climbed above 100 dollars a barrel, pushing up crude and natural gas prices worldwide. Higher commodity prices are now expected to translate into bumper earnings for the world's largest oil companies, setting the stage for a record quarter across the energy sector. Analysts expect ExxonMobil to report between $16 and $19 billion in second-quarter profit, while Chevron's earnings are projected at nearly $10 billion. Also read: China's $110-billion AI pharma boom could redefine the future of medicine This is more than three times their first-quarter results. US refiners, including Marathon Petroleum and Valero, are also expected to post their strongest profits in years. However, these gains have drawn political scrutiny. President Donald Trump has accused fuel retailers of keeping gasoline prices artificially high despite crude oil prices retreating and has ordered a federal investigation into possible price gouging. At the same time, some European lawmakers are demanding that oil companies contribute more towards climate adaptation measures. The oil industry argues that retail fuel prices do not move in lockstep with crude prices. Refiners say gasoline prices reflect multiple factors, including refining costs, fuel inventories, seasonal demand and supply disruptions. Companies also point to a time lag between changes in crude oil prices and prices at the pump. While gasoline prices in the United States have eased from their recent peaks, they remain higher than a year ago. As oil companies prepare to announce another quarter of exceptionally strong earnings, they also face growing political pressure over consumer fuel costs. This has emerged as a familiar cycle whenever geopolitical shocks send energy markets sharply higher.

Higher commodity prices are now expected to translate into bumper earnings for the world's largest&nbsp;oil&nbsp;companies, setting the stage for a record quarter across the energy sector.

Big oil profits meet political backlash

As Iran and the U.S. refuse to budge, the tussle over the Strait of Hormuz is intensifying, dragging West Asia further into uncertainty. In the latest, Trump has announced 20% toll on ships in Strait of Hormuz. Where are things headed? Gravitas explains what's happened so far, decoding the developments and getting you the bigger picture. This and a lot more coming up.


Can Trump Bomb Defiant Iran Into Submission Over Hormuz?

The front page of a state-published newspaper in Iran said in its headline on Sunday: “Revenge is coming soon.” The threat featured on the front of the Jam-e Jam newspaper is imposed on a photo from the funeral of former supreme leader Ali Khamenei, where mourners held a banner declaring “Trump, we’re going to kill you.”The front page also carries the quote from Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei promising that “vengeance is the will of our nation” and will “inevitably be carried out.”&nbsp;The Hamshahri newspaper, owned by Tehran’s municipality, published an AI-generated graphic on Saturday depicting US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in orange prison uniforms with crosshairs on their foreheads, under the slogan “Revenge is certain.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lindsey-graham-sent-to-hell-iranian-state-tv-anchor-congratulates-citizens-on-senator-s-death-1783875365713">‘Lindsey Graham sent to hell’: Iranian state TV anchor congratulates citizens on Senator’s death</a>&nbsp;It also depicted 13 US, Israeli and European officials in prison uniforms as Mojtaba Khamenei renewed Iran’s pledge to avenge his father’s killing&nbsp;The Hamshahri graphic held 13 US, Israeli and European political and military figures as responsible for the killing of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in the US-Israeli strike on February 28.Besides Trump and Netanyahu, the image also featured US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, CENTCOM commander Brad Cooper and US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-election-to-take-place-on-oct-27-netanyahu-govt-to-complete-its-full-term-1783870352345">Israel election to take place on Oct 27; Netanyahu govt to complete its full term</a>&nbsp;Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir were also shown in prison uniforms, as were Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. By including European leaders, the newspaper indicated that its revenge list extends beyond the US and Israeli officials associated most directly with the war.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strait-of-hormuz-more-important-deterrent-than-dozens-of-atomic-bombs-will-protect-it-khamenei-adviser-1783854686958">Strait of Hormuz ‘more important deterrent’ than dozens of atomic bombs, will protect it: Khamenei adviser</a>&nbsp;The graphic appeared after Iran’s new supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, issued his first public message since his father’s funeral ceremonies began, pledging retaliation against those responsible for his killing.&nbsp;“We pledge to avenge the blood of the martyred leader and all the martyrs of these two wars from the criminal and disgraced killers,” Khamenei said in the written statement, which was read on Iranian state television.He described vengeance as “the demand of the nation” and said it “must certainly” take place, adding that “soon every free person around the world will fulfil a part of this divine mission.”

The Hamshahri newspaper, owned by Tehran’s municipality, published an AI-generated graphic on Saturday depicting US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in orange prison uniforms with crosshairs on their foreheads, under the slogan “Revenge is certain.”

The front page of a state-published newspaper in Iran said in its headline on Sunday: “Revenge is coming soon.” The threat featured on the front of the Jam-e Jam newspaper is imposed on a photo from the funeral of former supreme leader Ali Khamenei, where mourners held a banner declaring “Trump, we’re going to kill you.” The front page also carries the quote from Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei promising that “vengeance is the will of our nation” and will “inevitably be carried out.” The Hamshahri newspaper, owned by Tehran’s municipality, published an AI-generated graphic on Saturday depicting US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in orange prison uniforms with crosshairs on their foreheads, under the slogan “Revenge is certain.” Also Read: ‘Lindsey Graham sent to hell’: Iranian state TV anchor congratulates citizens on Senator’s death It also depicted 13 US, Israeli and European officials in prison uniforms as Mojtaba Khamenei renewed Iran’s pledge to avenge his father’s killing The Hamshahri graphic held 13 US, Israeli and European political and military figures as responsible for the killing of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in the US-Israeli strike on February 28. Besides Trump and Netanyahu, the image also featured US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, CENTCOM commander Brad Cooper and US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee. Also Read: Israel election to take place on Oct 27; Netanyahu govt to complete its full term Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir were also shown in prison uniforms, as were Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. By including European leaders, the newspaper indicated that its revenge list extends beyond the US and Israeli officials associated most directly with the war. Also Read: Strait of Hormuz ‘more important deterrent’ than dozens of atomic bombs, will protect it: Khamenei adviser The graphic appeared after Iran’s new supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, issued his first public message since his father’s funeral ceremonies began, pledging retaliation against those responsible for his killing. “We pledge to avenge the blood of the martyred leader and all the martyrs of these two wars from the criminal and disgraced killers,” Khamenei said in the written statement, which was read on Iranian state television. He described vengeance as “the demand of the nation” and said it “must certainly” take place, adding that “soon every free person around the world will fulfil a part of this divine mission.”

The Hamshahri newspaper, owned by Tehran’s municipality, published an AI-generated graphic on Saturday depicting US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in orange prison uniforms with crosshairs on their foreheads, under the slogan “Revenge is certain.”

‘Revenge is coming soon,’ Iranian newspaper warns US, Europe leaders in front-page headline

US President Donald Trump told NBC News "Meet the Press" that he had spoken to the late Lindsey Graham just hours before his death. He claimed that the US Senator was fine “other than being tired". He also stated that he has a preferred replacement in mind for the South Carolina seat, but declined to publicly reveal the name out of respect. Trump characterised Graham as “a member of the family” and claimed that he died peacefully, “a quick end, and maybe that’s not the worst way to go.”“He actually said he was tired, but he wanted to pass the SAVE America Act, and I said, ‘Well, we’re going to get it done, Lindsey. We’re going to get it done. I’ll see you, like, soon,’” Trump told “Meet the Press,” adding that they were going to meet on Sunday.Trump called him a “great politician”, although he could be a “tough cookie” who could work out any issue with Democrats. “If I had a problem, a real problem, I wouldn’t often ask. But if I had a problem with a Democrat, he could work it out,” Trump said. “He was a great, he was a great politician, actually.”“We sort of got a little bit friendly, and just the friendship grew,” Trump continued. “It just grew, and he was an amazing advocate. He was — I don’t know how you find anybody like him.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-pm-yulia-svyrydenko-resigns-zelensky-cabinet-reshuffle-1783874991452">Ukraine PM Yulia Svyrydenko resigns as Zelensky pushes major cabinet reshuffle</a><h2>GOP seeks Lindsey Graham's replacement&nbsp;</h2>Trump said that it was too soon to comment on his replacement, but he had a great candidate in mind. "I have someone that I think would be great, but I don't want to say it now. Because it's just, you know, it's too soon with Lindsey. I don't want to even talk about anybody, but I do have somebody that I think is really good." Trump said that he thought Lindsey would live forever and win by a lot, "He was going to win by a lot, and was going to have one of his best elections ever. And now he's got-he's got this. Terrible."Governor Henry McMaster will appoint an interim senator to serve until early January. There will be a Republican Primary scheduled for August 11, with potential candidates like Nancy Mace being discussed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donald Trump says he spoke to Lindsey Graham just hours before his death and has a preferred candidate in mind to replace the late senator.

US President Donald Trump told NBC News "Meet the Press" that he had spoken to the late Lindsey Graham just hours before his death. He claimed that the US Senator was fine “other than being tired". He also stated that he has a preferred replacement in mind for the South Carolina seat, but declined to publicly reveal the name out of respect. Trump characterised Graham as “a member of the family” and claimed that he died peacefully, “a quick end, and maybe that’s not the worst way to go.” “He actually said he was tired, but he wanted to pass the SAVE America Act, and I said, ‘Well, we’re going to get it done, Lindsey. We’re going to get it done. I’ll see you, like, soon,’” Trump told “Meet the Press,” adding that they were going to meet on Sunday. Trump called him a “great politician”, although he could be a “tough cookie” who could work out any issue with Democrats. “If I had a problem, a real problem, I wouldn’t often ask. But if I had a problem with a Democrat, he could work it out,” Trump said. “He was a great, he was a great politician, actually.” “We sort of got a little bit friendly, and just the friendship grew,” Trump continued. “It just grew, and he was an amazing advocate. He was — I don’t know how you find anybody like him. Also Read: Ukraine PM Yulia Svyrydenko resigns as Zelensky pushes major cabinet reshuffle GOP seeks Lindsey Graham's replacement Trump said that it was too soon to comment on his replacement, but he had a great candidate in mind. "I have someone that I think would be great, but I don't want to say it now. Because it's just, you know, it's too soon with Lindsey. I don't want to even talk about anybody, but I do have somebody that I think is really good." Trump said that he thought Lindsey would live forever and win by a lot, "He was going to win by a lot, and was going to have one of his best elections ever. And now he's got-he's got this. Terrible." Governor Henry McMaster will appoint an interim senator to serve until early January. There will be a Republican Primary scheduled for August 11, with potential candidates like Nancy Mace being discussed.

Donald Trump says he spoke to Lindsey Graham just hours before his death and has a preferred candidate in mind to replace the late senator.

Lindsey Graham's final hours: Trump shares details of last conversation

For U.S. president Donald Trump, the stock market has become more than just an economic indicator. It has become a measure of his presidency.

Record equities, unequal gains: U.S. economy under Trump

US President Donald Trump said Saturday (July 11) said that he was taken to the Walter Reed Hospital in &nbsp;in Bethesda, Maryland, northwest of Washington, DC and had “just finished” a “perfect” physical examination. Taking to Truth Social, Trump slammed New York Times journalist Maggie Haberman after she questioned his physical and cognitive fitness. Trump said that he takes a physical test every six months and also claimed that he is the first President of United States to undergo cognitive test thrice. He also claimed that he answered every question right.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I just finished a perfect physical at Walter Reed, I do it every six months, and I requested another Cognitive Test, the only President to do so, three times, and I aced them all — Got every question right,” Trump, 80, wrote on his Truth Social platform. Trump did not specify when ​the exam was done. Haberman had questioned Trump about his mental clarity following a series of recent gaffe during the NATO summit in Turkey, including him calling Iran the “Islamic State of Japan" and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as “Vladimir Putin.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/white-house-breaks-precedent-by-keeping-79yo-trump-s-latest-health-report-secret-what-are-they-hiding-1780115226238">White House breaks precedent by keeping 79YO Trump's latest health report secret. Are they hiding something?</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Trump returning to the WH after his “perfect physical” at Walter Reed today 📷: Mandel NGAN / AFP <a href="https://t.co/IleSJPDtFw">pic.twitter.com/IleSJPDtFw</a>&mdash; Republicans against Trump (@RpsAgainstTrump) <a href="https://x.com/RpsAgainstTrump/status/2076078653432021397?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The test also coincided with US launching attacks on Iran with some tweets on X claiming that Trump was taken to hospital after the attack. While Trump's Truth Social post proves that these tweets are fake and he was taken to hopsital for the test ahead of the strikes, Trump did not specify the time of his visit.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-medical-check-up-went-perfectly-as-questions-over-health-persist-1779817686802">Trump says medical check-up went ‘perfectly’ as questions over health persist</a><h2>What we know about Trump's heath?</h2>In late May, the White House released a physician's memorandum claiming Trump is in “excellent health” following his May 26 annual physical at Walter Reed.It said that Trump scored a perfect 30 out of 30 on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, a standard screening tool for cognitive impairment, and said his neurological examination showed no abnormalities. While the administration has declined to identify the physicians, a White House official cited by The Washington Post last month said doctors affiliated with Harvard University, Duke University, and other prominent institutions were involved. The official added: “We have nothing to hide.”

US President Donald Trump said he completed a "perfect" physical examination at Walter Reed and aced a cognitive test for the third time. The claim comes weeks after the White House said he scored 30/30 on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment and remains in excellent health.

US President Donald Trump said Saturday (July 11) said that he was taken to the Walter Reed Hospital in in Bethesda, Maryland, northwest of Washington, DC and had “just finished” a “perfect” physical examination. Taking to Truth Social, Trump slammed New York Times journalist Maggie Haberman after she questioned his physical and cognitive fitness. Trump said that he takes a physical test every six months and also claimed that he is the first President of United States to undergo cognitive test thrice. He also claimed that he answered every question right. “I just finished a perfect physical at Walter Reed, I do it every six months, and I requested another Cognitive Test, the only President to do so, three times, and I aced them all — Got every question right,” Trump, 80, wrote on his Truth Social platform. Trump did not specify when the exam was done. Haberman had questioned Trump about his mental clarity following a series of recent gaffe during the NATO summit in Turkey, including him calling Iran the “Islamic State of Japan" and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as “Vladimir Putin.” Also Read: White House breaks precedent by keeping 79YO Trump's latest health report secret. Are they hiding something?

US President Donald Trump said he completed a "perfect" physical examination at Walter Reed and aced a cognitive test for the third time. The claim comes weeks after the White House said he scored 30/30 on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment and remains in excellent health.

'I requested...': Trump taken to Walter Reed hospital amid Iran strikes? What we know

Tensions between Washington and Tehran have reached a boiling point as U.S. President Donald Trump issues a severe warning to Iran. Following intelligence reports regarding an alleged assassination plot against him, Trump declared on social media that “1,000 missiles are locked and loaded” and aimed at the Islamic Republic.


US-Iran War: Trump issues stark warning as U.S.-Iran conflict escalates

US President Donald Trump says Washington is ready for another round of negotiations with Iran, even as the US imposed fresh sanctions targeting key Iranian financial networks. Reports suggest new talks could take place in Switzerland, while Qatar, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Oman continue diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation in the region. Meanwhile, Iran has rejected claims that it requested negotiations and has accused the US of violating previous understandings through renewed military action.


Trump agrees to fresh iran talks as us imposes new sanctions amid rising middle east tensions

North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un appears to have been inspired by US President Donald Trump's long line of renovation projects. Even as North Korea faces shortages and economic hardship, fresh satellite imagery shows construction activity at at least nine of Kim's luxury compounds.The renovations come as Trump, who once confessed his aspiration to be a dictator for at least one day of his presidency, continues to publicly tout “upgrades” to the White House. The latest project, as per reports, is a fortification of the White House front door. But unlike Trump, who often highlights his renovation plans, Kim has kept the work at his sprawling estates hidden from public view, with no mention in North Korean state media.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/never-before-seen-footage-reveals-what-epstein-s-private-island-little-st-james-actually-looked-like-from-the-inside-watch-1783578066878">Never-before-seen footage exposes eerie interiors of Jeffrey Epstein's private island Little St. James | Watch</a><h2>What is Kim renovating?</h2>Analysis of satellite images by NK Pro, a research service that tracks developments inside North Korea, shows construction beginning between late May and early June at several of Kim's residences. The projects include a compound in Pyongyang, a private beachfront retreat in Wonsan, a lakeside resort, and an enormous family estate reportedly large enough to include missile launch facilities.Experts say the timing is no coincidence. Growing economic cooperation with Russia and China has provided the Kim regime with fresh financial resources, allowing the leadership to invest in prestige projects while much of the population continues to face severe hardship.Michael Madden, a North Korea leadership expert at the Stimson Center, told the Wall Street Journal that many of the properties hold personal significance for Kim. "These are places where Kim Jong Un grew up," Madden said. "He probably maintained the high taste levels."<h2>A rare glimpse into Kim's luxury lifestyle</h2>Kim is believed to own more than a dozen luxury residences scattered across the country. Satellite imagery over the years has revealed features rarely associated with one of the world's most isolated states, including superyachts, horse racing tracks, Olympic size swimming pools and sprawling private villas.One of the compounds currently undergoing roof work is Kim's beachfront retreat in Wonsan, where his reported $7 million yacht is usually moored during the summer.The secrecy surrounding the renovations reflects more than security concerns. Publicly showcasing an extravagant lifestyle would undermine decades of state propaganda portraying Kim as a leader who shares the hardships of ordinary North Koreans. With nearly half the country's population estimated to be malnourished, images of luxury mansions and lavish retreats would stand in stark contrast to the regime's carefully cultivated narrative.

Fresh satellite images have revealed construction at at least nine of Kim Jong Un's luxury compounds, even as North Korea battles food shortages and economic hardship. Scroll down to see what the dictator is secretly renovating.

North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un appears to have been inspired by US President Donald Trump's long line of renovation projects. Even as North Korea faces shortages and economic hardship, fresh satellite imagery shows construction activity at at least nine of Kim's luxury compounds. The renovations come as Trump, who once confessed his aspiration to be a dictator for at least one day of his presidency, continues to publicly tout “upgrades” to the White House. The latest project, as per reports, is a fortification of the White House front door. But unlike Trump, who often highlights his renovation plans, Kim has kept the work at his sprawling estates hidden from public view, with no mention in North Korean state media. Also read | Never-before-seen footage exposes eerie interiors of Jeffrey Epstein's private island Little St. James | Watch What is Kim renovating? Analysis of satellite images by NK Pro, a research service that tracks developments inside North Korea, shows construction beginning between late May and early June at several of Kim's residences. The projects include a compound in Pyongyang, a private beachfront retreat in Wonsan, a lakeside resort, and an enormous family estate reportedly large enough to include missile launch facilities. Experts say the timing is no coincidence. Growing economic cooperation with Russia and China has provided the Kim regime with fresh financial resources, allowing the leadership to invest in prestige projects while much of the population continues to face severe hardship. Michael Madden, a North Korea leadership expert at the Stimson Center, told the Wall Street Journal that many of the properties hold personal significance for Kim. "These are places where Kim Jong Un grew up," Madden said. "He probably maintained the high taste levels." A rare glimpse into Kim's luxury lifestyle Kim is believed to own more than a dozen luxury residences scattered across the country. Satellite imagery over the years has revealed features rarely associated with one of the world's most isolated states, including superyachts, horse racing tracks, Olympic size swimming pools and sprawling private villas. One of the compounds currently undergoing roof work is Kim's beachfront retreat in Wonsan, where his reported $7 million yacht is usually moored during the summer. The secrecy surrounding the renovations reflects more than security concerns. Publicly showcasing an extravagant lifestyle would undermine decades of state propaganda portraying Kim as a leader who shares the hardships of ordinary North Koreans. With nearly half the country's population estimated to be malnourished, images of luxury mansions and lavish retreats would stand in stark contrast to the regime's carefully cultivated narrative.

Fresh satellite images have revealed construction at at least nine of Kim Jong Un's luxury compounds, even as North Korea battles food shortages and economic hardship. Scroll down to see what the dictator is secretly renovating.

North Korea's Kim inspired by his favourite wannabe 'dictator' Trump? Satellite images reveal secret makeover of 9 luxury compounds

For months, the Trump administration has pursued what officials describe as a two-track Iran strategy—maximum military pressure on the one hand, and continued diplomatic outreach on the other. But that strategy is now under increasing scrutiny. It is being questioned, even rejected completely. If not military and diplomatic pressure, does Trump have a plan C? While political settlements take years, Washington is still searching for a strategy that can turn battlefield leverage into lasting diplomatic success. Iran will respond to any attack against its infrastructure, including by striking Israel, the head of the country's top security body said on Friday, as Tehran and Washington have resumed fighting this week.


Trump’s maximum pressure on Iran yields little, pushes for new approach

As the West Asia conflict enters a volatile new phase, U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a high-level phone call to coordinate military operations in the Persian Gulf. Following President Trump’s declaration that the Islamabad Memorandum ceasefire is effectively "over" due to recent Iranian attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, the two leaders discussed synchronized strategic responses.


Israel-Iran War: Netanyahu & Trump Hold Phone Call Amid Renewed Fighting 

As tensions between Washington and Tehran hit a fever pitch, a new report suggests Israel has shared intelligence with the U.S. regarding an alleged Iranian plot to assassinate President Donald Trump. While President Trump has publicly acknowledged the threat, some U.S. officials are questioning the timing and intent behind this intelligence. Is this a genuine security warning, or a strategic effort by Israel to sway U.S. military action against Iran?


Did Israel use kill- plot intel to convince Trump to attack Iran? 

Israel has reportedly shared intelligence with the United States regarding an alleged Iranian plot targeting U.S. President Donald Trump, according to multiple media reports citing sources familiar with the matter. The intelligence reportedly raised concerns about a specific threat, adding to tensions as the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Iran faces renewed pressure. According to the reports, U.S. officials had already been monitoring intelligence suggesting potential threats against Trump in recent weeks. However, the latest warning from Israel reportedly concerned a more specific alleged plot. The details have not been independently verified by U.S. authorities, and officials are continuing to assess the information.


US-Iran war: Israel claims Iranian plot to kill Trump

A fresh political storm has erupted in Washington after reports that FBI Director Kash Patel has ordered hundreds of bureau personnel to assist in an investigation linked to Donald Trump's long-running claims about the 2020 presidential election. The move has triggered sharp criticism from Senate Democrats, who have accused the FBI of "misusing taxpayers dollars" by diverting resources away from national security priorities to pursue what they describe as a politically driven investigation.Senator Mark Warner of Virginia, the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, in a letter, has demanded answers from Patel and Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche after reports that the FBI had mobilised 260 intelligence analysts from field offices across the United States.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-appeals-again-in-e-jean-carroll-case-tries-to-defy-order-to-pay-his-sexual-assault-victim-5-8-million-claims-unrecoverable-loss-1783565071503">Trump appeals again in E. Jean Carroll case, tries to defy order to pay his sexual assault victim $5.8 million, claims 'unrecoverable loss'</a><h2>FBI's latest 'priority investigation'</h2>According to internal FBI documents cited by MS NOW, 260 FBI analysts have been reassigned to support what is described as a "priority investigation" based in Atlanta, Georgia. The investigation's focus? The 2020 election, Trump claims he won.Warner argued that the decision amounts to a misuse of federal resources. "Dedicated FBI special agents and intelligence analysts work tirelessly to identify legitimate threats involving terrorism, counterintelligence, espionage, cyberattacks and violent crime," he wrote. "Unlike those serious threats, this fool's errand of an investigation will only erode trust in the FBI, the Department of Justice and America's elections."The senator went further, calling it "a misuse of taxpayer dollars" and alleging that critical national security personnel were being redirected to serve the political interests of the president. Warner has also requested a formal briefing from the FBI and Justice Department.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/never-before-seen-footage-reveals-what-epstein-s-private-island-little-st-james-actually-looked-like-from-the-inside-watch-1783578066878">Never-before-seen footage exposes eerie interiors of Jeffrey Epstein's private island Little St. James | Watch</a><h2>Massive deployment raises questions</h2>The reported scale of the operation has drawn particular attention. An unclassified FBI memo reportedly instructed every field office to immediately provide support to the Atlanta investigation, with staffing quotas determined by the size of each office. The 260 analysts have reportedly been tasked with completing 708 records checks each by July 17, while overtime, including weekends and holidays, has been authorised. Separate teams of FBI agents are also said to be working on the investigation.But what are they looking for? According to the MS NOW report citing an official, the "short answer" is they are "Looking for derogatory information".For this, investigators are examining social media activity, business records, travel history and associations in an effort to identify potentially incriminating information.<h2>Trump vs Biden: 2020 election dispute</h2>Joe Biden defeated Donald Trump in Georgia by 11,779 votes in the 2020 presidential election. The outcome has since been reaffirmed through recounts, post-election audits, state certification processes and multiple court rulings.

Senate Democrats have accused FBI Director Kash Patel of diverting hundreds of bureau personnel to investigate Donald Trump's 2020 election claims, calling it a "misuse of taxpayer dollars" and a politically driven "fool's errand". 

A fresh political storm has erupted in Washington after reports that FBI Director Kash Patel has ordered hundreds of bureau personnel to assist in an investigation linked to Donald Trump's long-running claims about the 2020 presidential election. The move has triggered sharp criticism from Senate Democrats, who have accused the FBI of "misusing taxpayers dollars" by diverting resources away from national security priorities to pursue what they describe as a politically driven investigation. Senator Mark Warner of Virginia, the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, in a letter, has demanded answers from Patel and Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche after reports that the FBI had mobilised 260 intelligence analysts from field offices across the United States. Also read | Trump appeals again in E. Jean Carroll case, tries to defy order to pay his sexual assault victim $5.8 million, claims 'unrecoverable loss' FBI's latest 'priority investigation' According to internal FBI documents cited by MS NOW, 260 FBI analysts have been reassigned to support what is described as a "priority investigation" based in Atlanta, Georgia. The investigation's focus? The 2020 election, Trump claims he won. Warner argued that the decision amounts to a misuse of federal resources. "Dedicated FBI special agents and intelligence analysts work tirelessly to identify legitimate threats involving terrorism, counterintelligence, espionage, cyberattacks and violent crime," he wrote. "Unlike those serious threats, this fool's errand of an investigation will only erode trust in the FBI, the Department of Justice and America's elections." The senator went further, calling it "a misuse of taxpayer dollars" and alleging that critical national security personnel were being redirected to serve the political interests of the president. Warner has also requested a formal briefing from the FBI and Justice Department. Also read | Never-before-seen footage exposes eerie interiors of Jeffrey Epstein's private island Little St. James | Watch Massive deployment raises questions The reported scale of the operation has drawn particular attention. An unclassified FBI memo reportedly instructed every field office to immediately provide support to the Atlanta investigation, with staffing quotas determined by the size of each office. The 260 analysts have reportedly been tasked with completing 708 records checks each by July 17, while overtime, including weekends and holidays, has been authorised. Separate teams of FBI agents are also said to be working on the investigation. But what are they looking for? According to the MS NOW report citing an official, the "short answer" is they are "Looking for derogatory information". For this, investigators are examining social media activity, business records, travel history and associations in an effort to identify potentially incriminating information. Trump vs Biden: 2020 election dispute Joe Biden defeated Donald Trump in Georgia by 11,779 votes in the 2020 presidential election. The outcome has since been reaffirmed through recounts, post-election audits, state certification processes and multiple court rulings.

Senate Democrats have accused FBI Director Kash Patel of diverting hundreds of bureau personnel to investigate Donald Trump's 2020 election claims, calling it a "misuse of taxpayer dollars" and a politically driven "fool's errand".&nbsp;

Kash Patel's 'fool errand' EXPOSED: 260 FBI agents deployed to investigate Trump's 2020 election loss; Democrats slam 'misuse of taxpayer dollars'

In a landmark development at the 2026 NATO Summit in Ankara, President Donald Trump announced that the United States will grant Ukraine a license to domestically manufacture Patriot interceptor missiles. Aimed at bolstering Kyiv's long-term air defense capabilities against ongoing ballistic missile threats, the move allows Ukraine to produce its own "defensive shield" without relying solely on limited U.S. stockpiles.


Trump clears path for Ukraine to manufacture patriot missiles

The fragile June 17 ceasefire has officially collapsed as the U.S. and Iran engage in their most intense aerial exchanges since the war began. Following Iranian strikes on three commercial tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, President Donald Trump declared the truce "over" and ordered a massive U.S. campaign against over 90 strategic targets, including missile launchers and radar sites. 

Reports indicate strikes near the Bushehr province, home to Iran's nuclear complex, as tensions reach a boiling point.

US-Iran war: Trump goes ballistic, targets Iran nuclear nerve centre

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz on Thursday rejected US President Donald Trump's claim that Israel will withdraw its troops from Southern Lebanon, saying that it would remain in Lebanon as long as required. Katz said that Israel has the "privilege and right" to protect its citizens from Hezbollah, and the IDF forces will remain within Lebanon until the disarmament of Hezbollah."We did not ask anyone's permission to enter Lebanon, and we do not need permission to stay in Lebanon," said Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz. "As Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and I have clarified, we will continue to stay in the security zone in Lebanon and to act from it as needed, until Hezbollah is disarmed in all of Lebanon and the threat to the residents of the north is removed." &nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fbi-investigates-argentina-football-association-money-laundering-1783590578801">Argentina Football Association under FBI probe for suspected money laundering</a>The statement comes in response to Trump's response to a question at the sidelines of the NATO summit about Israel and Lebanon getting along. He said that Israel is planning to withdraw from Lebanon, as he understood following his discussion with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu."Yeah, I think they're going to. I think they want to". He further stated that Israel and Lebanon were "getting along" and signing "deals".The friction between Trump and Netanyahu about the ongoing Israeli operation in Lebanon has been public for some time now. Trump has previously said that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu listens to him. He told Axios that Israel "does as he says," despite indicating otherwise. Israel continued its attack in Lebanon even after reservations from US President Donald Trump. He openly discarded the peace plan outlined by the Gaza Board of Peace, and pushed that no reconstruction will take place in the enclave before it is entirely demilitarised.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz rejected Donald Trump's claim that Israel would withdraw from southern Lebanon, saying IDF troops will remain until Hezbollah is disarmed.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz on Thursday rejected US President Donald Trump's claim that Israel will withdraw its troops from Southern Lebanon, saying that it would remain in Lebanon as long as required. Katz said that Israel has the "privilege and right" to protect its citizens from Hezbollah, and the IDF forces will remain within Lebanon until the disarmament of Hezbollah. "We did not ask anyone's permission to enter Lebanon, and we do not need permission to stay in Lebanon," said Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz. "As Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and I have clarified, we will continue to stay in the security zone in Lebanon and to act from it as needed, until Hezbollah is disarmed in all of Lebanon and the threat to the residents of the north is removed." Also Read: Argentina Football Association under FBI probe for suspected money laundering The statement comes in response to Trump's response to a question at the sidelines of the NATO summit about Israel and Lebanon getting along. He said that Israel is planning to withdraw from Lebanon, as he understood following his discussion with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. "Yeah, I think they're going to. I think they want to". He further stated that Israel and Lebanon were "getting along" and signing "deals". The friction between Trump and Netanyahu about the ongoing Israeli operation in Lebanon has been public for some time now. Trump has previously said that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu listens to him. He told Axios that Israel "does as he says," despite indicating otherwise. Israel continued its attack in Lebanon even after reservations from US President Donald Trump. He openly discarded the peace plan outlined by the Gaza Board of Peace, and pushed that no reconstruction will take place in the enclave before it is entirely demilitarised.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz rejected Donald Trump's claim that Israel would withdraw from southern Lebanon, saying IDF troops will remain until Hezbollah is disarmed.

Israel rejects Trump's Lebanon withdrawal claim, says troops will stay until Hezbollah is disarmed

US President Donald Trump has filed yet another appeal to avoid paying writer E. Jean Carroll the $5.8 million he owes her in the sexual abuse and defamation case that has followed him for years. The latest move came on Wednesday (Jul 8), when Trump challenged a federal judge’s ruling that cleared the way for Carroll to collect the money from an escrow account. The payment has been sitting there since a jury found Trump liable and awarded Carroll damages, which have since grown with interest.<h2>'Unrecoverable loss': Trump's latest appeal</h2>His legal team has gone back to the Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit after U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan in New York ruled that Carroll could finally receive the sum.Trump’s lawyers argue that forcing him to pay now would cause what they called an “unrecoverable loss”. They also claimed Carroll has indicated she plans to give away any money she receives, which they say could make it difficult to recover the funds later if Trump wins another round of appeals.That is why they want the money to remain in court-supervised escrow until the Supreme Court fully rejects Trump’s renewed push to overturn the case.<h2>Trump found guilty of sexual assault</h2>A jury in 2023 found that Trump sexually abused Carroll in a dressing room of a luxury Manhattan department store in 1996 and later defamed her when she described the incident in a memoir published in 2019.Trump, meanwhile, has repeatedly denied the assault. He has also continued to attack Carroll publicly, saying she is “not my type”.Last month, the Supreme Court dealt Trump a fresh setback when it refused to hear his appeal of the verdict.<h2>Another huge judgment still hanging over Trump</h2>The $5.8 million award is not the only financial blow Trump faces in this matter. In January 2024, a separate jury ordered him to pay Carroll $83.3 million in damages for defamation. That case is also being appealed and could still wind up before the Supreme Court.

Donald Trump has launched another legal bid to stop E. Jean Carroll from collecting the $5.8 million a jury awarded her, arguing the payment would cause an "unrecoverable loss". The appeal comes weeks after the US Supreme Court refused to revive his challenge to the sexual abuse verdict.

US President Donald Trump has filed yet another appeal to avoid paying writer E. Jean Carroll the $5.8 million he owes her in the sexual abuse and defamation case that has followed him for years. The latest move came on Wednesday (Jul 8), when Trump challenged a federal judge’s ruling that cleared the way for Carroll to collect the money from an escrow account. The payment has been sitting there since a jury found Trump liable and awarded Carroll damages, which have since grown with interest. 'Unrecoverable loss': Trump's latest appeal His legal team has gone back to the Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit after U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan in New York ruled that Carroll could finally receive the sum. Trump’s lawyers argue that forcing him to pay now would cause what they called an “unrecoverable loss”. They also claimed Carroll has indicated she plans to give away any money she receives, which they say could make it difficult to recover the funds later if Trump wins another round of appeals. That is why they want the money to remain in court-supervised escrow until the Supreme Court fully rejects Trump’s renewed push to overturn the case. Trump found guilty of sexual assault A jury in 2023 found that Trump sexually abused Carroll in a dressing room of a luxury Manhattan department store in 1996 and later defamed her when she described the incident in a memoir published in 2019. Trump, meanwhile, has repeatedly denied the assault. He has also continued to attack Carroll publicly, saying she is “not my type”. Last month, the Supreme Court dealt Trump a fresh setback when it refused to hear his appeal of the verdict. Another huge judgment still hanging over Trump The $5.8 million award is not the only financial blow Trump faces in this matter. In January 2024, a separate jury ordered him to pay Carroll $83.3 million in damages for defamation. That case is also being appealed and could still wind up before the Supreme Court.

Donald Trump has launched another legal bid to stop E. Jean Carroll from collecting the $5.8 million a jury awarded her, arguing the payment would cause an "unrecoverable loss". The appeal comes weeks after the US Supreme Court refused to revive his challenge to the sexual abuse verdict.

Trump appeals again in E. Jean Carroll case, tries to defy order to pay his sexual assault victim $5.8 million, claims 'unrecoverable loss'

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