Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has mocked US President Donald Trump’s economic sanction campaign. In response to Trump's reposting an edited excerpt from Ghalibaf’s remarks about Iran’s economic situation. In a social media post, he restyled Trump's famous Make America Great Again catchphrase to “Make America Hungry Again”.Ghalibaf shared a picture claiming that 47 million people in the United States face hunger and 16 million US children are among those affected by poverty and the cost-of-living crisis. Ghalibaf stressed that Trump can not cover up “defeats” using false claims.This reaction came in response to Trump sharing an edited excerpt from Ghalibaf's remark during a meeting with Iranian and Iraqi businesspeople, with Ghalibaf saying: “We are hungry and we do not have the ability to resist.”According to Iranian media, Ghalibaf was not describing hunger as the current condition of the Iranian people. Rather, he was emphasising the need to strengthen the economy. Both security and economic strength must be maintained simultaneously. He said that the US has failed militarily and is now engaging in psychological and economic warfare.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/revanth-reddy-returns-hyderabad-mea-denies-us-visit-clearance-1787578195030">'Insult' to 4 crore people of Telangana: Why CM Revanth Reddy's US visit clearance was denied</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">MAKE AMERICA HUNGRY AGAIN! You can’t cover up defeats with false claims. <a href="https://t.co/LBclafRt3B">pic.twitter.com/LBclafRt3B</a>&mdash; محمدباقر قالیباف | MB Ghalibaf (@mb_ghalibaf) <a href="https://x.com/mb_ghalibaf/status/2091846882876145880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Iran will strike on US energy chokepoints and vital interests: IRGC</h2>Hossein Mohebbi, spokesperson for Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, said that the country's missile capability remains intact and any attack at Iran's infrastructure will result in “heavy strikes” on US energy chokepoints and vital interests. He further added that Iran's missile production continues and the US plan for new economic sanctions against Tehran amounts to "an implicit admission" of Washington's failure on the military front.&nbsp;"We can easily establish economic relations with countries. There is no concern regarding the economic situation," said Mohebbi, according to Iranian state broadcaster IRIB.“Today, the US understands very well that if it carries out its threats against Iran’s infrastructure, it will face heavy strategic strikes on energy chokepoints and its vital interests.” He continued, “The most important achievement of this war was transferring vulnerability to the enemy’s vital infrastructure and affiliated centres."

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf mocked Donald Trump with a “Make America Hungry Again” remark after the US president shared an edited clip of his comments indicating that Iran was hungry.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has mocked US President Donald Trump’s economic sanction campaign. In response to Trump's reposting an edited excerpt from Ghalibaf’s remarks about Iran’s economic situation. In a social media post, he restyled Trump's famous Make America Great Again catchphrase to “Make America Hungry Again”. Ghalibaf shared a picture claiming that 47 million people in the United States face hunger and 16 million US children are among those affected by poverty and the cost-of-living crisis. Ghalibaf stressed that Trump can not cover up “defeats” using false claims. This reaction came in response to Trump sharing an edited excerpt from Ghalibaf's remark during a meeting with Iranian and Iraqi businesspeople, with Ghalibaf saying: “We are hungry and we do not have the ability to resist.” According to Iranian media, Ghalibaf was not describing hunger as the current condition of the Iranian people. Rather, he was emphasising the need to strengthen the economy. Both security and economic strength must be maintained simultaneously. He said that the US has failed militarily and is now engaging in psychological and economic warfare. Also Read: 'Insult' to 4 crore people of Telangana: Why CM Revanth Reddy's US visit clearance was denied

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf mocked Donald Trump with a “Make America Hungry Again” remark after the US president shared an edited clip of his comments indicating that Iran was hungry.

Iran’s Ghalibaf mocks Trump's economic sanction campaign: ‘Make America Hungry Again’

President Donald Trump set the stage for the unveiling of a range of new sanctions on Monday aimed at squeezing Iran’s economy by declaring that the theocratic state is “completely collapsing.”Just hours before the US Treasury was to unveil a tranche of new sanctions to force the Islamic Republic to capitulate in the war, President Trump wrote in a brief post on Truth Social, “IRAN IS COMPLETELY COLLAPSING!!!”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump had previously vowed that the new US tactic in the war, which represents a shift from military strikes and threats to sanctions-based financial warfare, would impose an “economic D-Day” on Iran. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-enter-new-phase-in-iran-war-very-soon-says-house-speaker-mike-johnson-1787516303936">‘We took the head off the snake’: US to enter ‘new phase’ in Iran war very soon, says Speaker Mike Johnson</a> Iran has been ostensibly dismissive of the US threat to ratchet up sanctions and claimed that the Islamic Republic has already withstood decades of economic punishment. US Treasury chief Scott Bessent also said that the new sanctions would amount to “the single greatest financial offensive ever marshalled against an adversary.” <h2>Iran will respond to US sanctions, says foreign ministry</h2> Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman warned on Monday that Tehran would respond harshly to new US sanctions, including with measures against countries it sees as cooperating with Washington. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-orchestrating-sabotage-attacks-at-european-arms-plants-to-sow-discord-report-1787511138908">Russia orchestrating sabotage attacks at European arms plants to sow discord: Report</a> “Any escalation of this situation will undoubtedly bring about consequences,” Esmaeil Baghaei said. “Our hands are not tied.” <h2>Baghaei downplays likely impact of new sanctions</h2> Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman further downplayed the potential impact of new economic sanctions the US will announce on Monday.When a reporter asked about the impact of the sanctions, spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said previous similar attempts by the US to pressure Iran had failed. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-switch-to-economic-war-against-iran-is-admission-of-its-military-defeat-irgc-1787504157742">US switch to economic war against Iran is admission of its ‘military defeat’: IRGC</a> “The Iranian people will show that they are determined and steadfast in safeguarding their rights,” he added.Baghaei said the new measures were being imposed because the Trump administration had “miscalculated” its attacks and believed “military aggression could bring the Iranians to their knees.”

President Trump had vowed that the new US tactic in the war, which represents a shift from military strikes to sanctions-based financial warfare, would impose an “economic D-Day” on Iran. Tehran has been claiming that it has already withstood decades of economic punishment.

President Donald Trump set the stage for the unveiling of a range of new sanctions on Monday aimed at squeezing Iran’s economy by declaring that the theocratic state is “completely collapsing.” Just hours before the US Treasury was to unveil a tranche of new sanctions to force the Islamic Republic to capitulate in the war, President Trump wrote in a brief post on Truth Social, “IRAN IS COMPLETELY COLLAPSING!!!”

President Trump had vowed that the new US tactic in the war, which represents a shift from military strikes to sanctions-based financial warfare, would impose an “economic D-Day” on Iran. Tehran has been claiming that it has already withstood decades of economic punishment.

Trump sets stage for new sanctions unveiling, says Iran is ‘completely collapsing’

The Union Government on Monday clarified that the discussion between two nations about the arrangement of a public appearance by their leader is a “normal practice”, PTI reported, citing government sources. This follows the government's clarification of US Ambassador Sergio Gor's remarks about the bilateral meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Evian, France.&nbsp;"Discussions regarding arrangements for public appearances of leaders are normal practice ahead of any VVIP visit," a government source told PTI."In this regard, the Indian side communicated its standard practice for such visits," the source added.The June 17 bilateral meeting between the US and India came after three Indian sailors were killed by a US Navy attack on the commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-strikes-alleged-drug-trafficking-boat-eastern-pacific-1787567752917">US strikes alleged drug trafficking boat in Eastern Pacific, killing 2</a><h2>What did US envoy Sergio Gor say?</h2>During the Economic Times World Leaders Forum, Gor said that the Indian Ministry of External Affairs specifically requested that there should be no press interaction following the bilateral meet. But Trump supposedly forgot about that and, following the opening remarks, asked reporters if they had any questions, which followed a 45-minute press conference with reporters. Gor claimed, adding that the remark “opened everything up”.“I told the president, I said, the Indians prefer no questions. He said, sure, no problem. So the meeting starts, the press comes in, there must have been 50 cameras, the president is sitting here, the prime minister is sitting there, they both speak for a few minutes. As soon as they get done, the first thing the president does, he looks up at the camera and say, any questions?” said Gor.US Ambassador Sergio Gor shared the anecdote while discussing the India-US relationship and the personal friendship between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Indian government said discussions over public appearances by leaders are normal practice after US Ambassador Sergio Gor's remarks on the Modi-Trump G7 meeting.

The Union Government on Monday clarified that the discussion between two nations about the arrangement of a public appearance by their leader is a “normal practice”, PTI reported, citing government sources. This follows the government's clarification of US Ambassador Sergio Gor's remarks about the bilateral meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Evian, France. "Discussions regarding arrangements for public appearances of leaders are normal practice ahead of any VVIP visit," a government source told PTI. "In this regard, the Indian side communicated its standard practice for such visits," the source added. The June 17 bilateral meeting between the US and India came after three Indian sailors were killed by a US Navy attack on the commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz. Also Read: US strikes alleged drug trafficking boat in Eastern Pacific, killing 2 What did US envoy Sergio Gor say? During the Economic Times World Leaders Forum, Gor said that the Indian Ministry of External Affairs specifically requested that there should be no press interaction following the bilateral meet. But Trump supposedly forgot about that and, following the opening remarks, asked reporters if they had any questions, which followed a 45-minute press conference with reporters. Gor claimed, adding that the remark “opened everything up”. “I told the president, I said, the Indians prefer no questions. He said, sure, no problem. So the meeting starts, the press comes in, there must have been 50 cameras, the president is sitting here, the prime minister is sitting there, they both speak for a few minutes. As soon as they get done, the first thing the president does, he looks up at the camera and say, any questions?” said Gor. US Ambassador Sergio Gor shared the anecdote while discussing the India-US relationship and the personal friendship between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Indian government said discussions over public appearances by leaders are normal practice after US Ambassador Sergio Gor's remarks on the Modi-Trump G7 meeting.

India calls leader media arrangements ‘normal practice’ after Sergio Gor remarks

US envoy Sergio Gor claimed that the Indian Ministry of External Affairs had made a request ahead of the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump during the G7 summit. He claimed that the Ministry of External Affairs had asked for “no questions” after the leaders finished their opening remarks.“We were behind the scenes, behind the stage, and at one point it was just the president and I, and he asked me, he goes, what are the Indians going to raise? We went over some topics. And he said, " Do they have any asks? And the MEA had one ask. He said, and it was, let's bring in the media, but let's not do a full press conference," said Gor at the Economic Times World Leaders Forum.“I told the president, I said, the Indians prefer no questions. He said, sure, no problem. So the meeting starts, the press comes in, there must have been 50 cameras, the president is sitting here, the prime minister is sitting there, they both speak for a few minutes. As soon as they get done, the first thing the president does he looks up at the camera and says, any questions?” said Sergio Gor.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-airstrikes-gaza-kill-two-amid-ceasefire-1787498033928">Israel airstrikes kill 2 in Gaza, including 4-year-old boy, amid ceasefire</a>Gor added that a 45-minute press conference with reporters raised a wide range of issues and “everything was on the table”.&nbsp;US Ambassador Sergio Gor shared the anecdote while discussing the India-US relationship and the personal friendship between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;"The numbers don't lie. If you look at the trajectory of our relationship, just go by the numbers," he said."15 years ago, our bilateral trade was 20 billion dollars. Today, it's 240 billion dollars. That's not an accident, and it's continuing to grow," said Gor. The forum took place right after Gor's historic trip to Srinagar, where he publicly called Jammu &amp; Kashmir "an important part of India," sparking a diplomatic protest from Pakistan.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">“India specifically requested that there should be no press conference and no press questions during the Trump Modi meet at G7.” ~ US ambassador Sergio Gor. Rahul Gandhi was so right about him, when he said he will be destroyed within seconds if he faces the Press. <a href="https://t.co/TwDdIkAYQ0">pic.twitter.com/TwDdIkAYQ0</a>&mdash; Jitesh (@Chaotic_mind99) <a href="https://x.com/Chaotic_mind99/status/2091548020169134563?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

US envoy Sergio Gor claimed India’s MEA requested no questions from the media after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Donald Trump delivered opening remarks at their G7 meeting.

US envoy Sergio Gor claimed that the Indian Ministry of External Affairs had made a request ahead of the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump during the G7 summit. He claimed that the Ministry of External Affairs had asked for “no questions” after the leaders finished their opening remarks. “We were behind the scenes, behind the stage, and at one point it was just the president and I, and he asked me, he goes, what are the Indians going to raise? We went over some topics. And he said, " Do they have any asks? And the MEA had one ask. He said, and it was, let's bring in the media, but let's not do a full press conference," said Gor at the Economic Times World Leaders Forum. “I told the president, I said, the Indians prefer no questions. He said, sure, no problem. So the meeting starts, the press comes in, there must have been 50 cameras, the president is sitting here, the prime minister is sitting there, they both speak for a few minutes. As soon as they get done, the first thing the president does he looks up at the camera and says, any questions?” said Sergio Gor. Also Read: Israel airstrikes kill 2 in Gaza, including 4-year-old boy, amid ceasefire Gor added that a 45-minute press conference with reporters raised a wide range of issues and “everything was on the table”. US Ambassador Sergio Gor shared the anecdote while discussing the India-US relationship and the personal friendship between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "The numbers don't lie. If you look at the trajectory of our relationship, just go by the numbers," he said. "15 years ago, our bilateral trade was 20 billion dollars. Today, it's 240 billion dollars. That's not an accident, and it's continuing to grow," said Gor. The forum took place right after Gor's historic trip to Srinagar, where he publicly called Jammu & Kashmir "an important part of India," sparking a diplomatic protest from Pakistan.

US envoy Sergio Gor claimed India’s MEA requested no questions from the media after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Donald Trump delivered opening remarks at their G7 meeting.

US envoy Sergio Gor claims India sought ‘no questions’ after Modi-Trump G7 meeting

Welcome to WION. Here are the top global and India headlines making news.

U.S. President Donald Trump shares images of the proposed White House ballroom following a Supreme Court-related development. Germany’s foreign minister sharply criticizes Vladimir Putin over the war in Ukraine and pledges further support for Kyiv.

Meanwhile, Israel pushes back against U.S. criticism of its strikes on Syrian military sites, while Iran announces further upgrades to its ballistic and cruise missile programs.

In India, Rahul Gandhi’s youth event gets underway in Pune, with the Congress leader engaging with students and discussing issues facing young Indians.

Elsewhere, the IMF stalls Bangladesh funding amid concerns over delayed reforms, firefighters continue battling wildfires in Spain’s Valencia region, and a Chinese humanoid robot reportedly posts an impressive 100-metre trial time.

Watch the full bulletin for the latest world news, India news, geopolitics, Ukraine war, Iran, Israel, Bangladesh, Trump and technology updates.


Trump’s White House Ballroom | Rahul Gandhi’s Pune Youth Event |  Germany Slams Putin 

President Donald Trump has unveiled a major new push to accelerate America’s commercial space ambitions, with the United States targeting more than 1,000 rocket launches and spacecraft re-entries from American soil every year by 2030.

The new policy directs US government agencies to examine federal land for additional launch and re-entry sites while encouraging greater private-sector participation in space transportation.

Trump’s plans extend beyond Earth orbit. NASA has been directed to support commercial transportation to and from the Moon, robotic missions to Mars and eventually commercial human transportation to the Red Planet.

The announcement comes as the US-China space race intensifies, with both countries pursuing ambitious lunar programs. The United States is aiming to return astronauts to the lunar surface before 2030 and establish a more sustained presence on the Moon.

Trump Unveils Major US Space Push | 1,000+ Rocket Launches by 2030 | Moon & Mars Missions Accelerate

Karoline Leavitt is set to leave her position as White House press secretary at the end of August, and President Donald Trump has begun teasing possible contenders to replace her.

At a rally in South Carolina, Trump praised Leavitt’s performance while joking about her decision to leave the demanding White House role after the birth of her second child. Leavitt became the youngest White House press secretary in U.S. history when she took the position at the age of 28.

Trump said there is no shortage of interest in the position and suggested that the role has become more attractive under Leavitt. Among the names he mentioned are Scott Jennings, a CNN commentator and Trump supporter, and Margo Martin, a longtime Trump communications aide.

Karoline Leavitt Set to Leave White House Press Secretary Post | Trump Reveals Possible Replacements

Iran-US tensions are intensifying as Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian calls for an end to the month-long war while insisting that Tehran is negotiating from a position of strength. US President Donald Trump, however, says Iran is interested in a deal but is not yet ready to make what he considers the “right deal.”

Trump has also claimed that the United States has total control of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important waterways. The comments come as Washington increases economic and maritime pressure on Tehran.

Iran has rejected the latest US pressure campaign and warned that further threats could trigger a strong military response. Iranian officials say Tehran remains prepared to defend its strategic waterways and interests across the region.

Meanwhile, the United States is expected to announce new sanctions targeting Iran, while discussions involving Iran and Oman continue over possible conditions for resuming talks, including security and freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran-US War: Tehran Calls For End To Month-Long Conflict |Trump Says Iran Not Ready For “Right Deal”

A federal judge in Manhattan has struck down the Trump administration’s policy suspending immigrant visa issuance for citizens of 75 countries, ruling that the measure was ‘contrary to law’ and exceeded the statutory authority of Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The State Department introduced the policy in January, pausing immigrant visa processing for people from nearly 40% of the world’s countries. The administration said the move was intended to prevent the admission of immigrants who could potentially 'take welfare and public benefits'.&nbsp;Judge Jeannette Vargas of the Federal District Court in Manhattan rejected that reasoning, ruling that visa denials based solely on the policy must be reversed. Her decision represents another legal setback for the Trump administration’s immigration agenda. Under US immigration law, applicants can be denied entry as a potential ‘public charge’ only after a consular officer evaluates the individual’s circumstances. That assessment must consider factors including the applicant’s finances, age, health, skills and family situation.&nbsp;Vargas found that the State Department’s policy effectively instructed US consular officers to deny immigrant visas based solely on an applicant’s country of nationality, even when the applicant could demonstrate an ability to support themselves. A cable sent by Rubio to US diplomatic and consular posts, which was included in the court record, instructed officers to refuse applicants even when someone “provides additional evidence that demonstrates he or she overcomes the public charge refusal.”“The outcome is predetermined,” Vargas wrote. “The visa will be refused.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigerian-navy-disrupts-crude-oil-theft-operation-recovers-93-000-litres-in-bonny-1787399410204">Nigerian Navy disrupts crude oil theft operation, recovers 93,000 litres in Bonny</a>&nbsp;The judge concluded that the policy conflicted with a 1965 law prohibiting nationality-based discrimination in the issuance of immigrant visas. She also found that another federal provision prevents the secretary of state from controlling how consular officers make individual visa determinations. The ruling applies to denials based on the disputed policy. Visa refusals based on separate legal grounds remain valid, even if officers also referenced the 75-country policy. As a result, the precise number of visa denials that could be reversed remains uncertain.&nbsp;The suspension affected immigrant visas used by people seeking permanent residence in the United States, including those joining family members or moving to the country for employment. It did not apply to nonimmigrant visas, including tourist and student visas. The administration’s list covered countries across the Caribbean, sub-Saharan Africa, the Balkans, the Middle East, Central Asia and Southeast Asia. It included several US partners, including Jordan, Egypt and Georgia.&nbsp;According to the administration, the State Department developed the list using data from the Council of Economic Advisers. Countries were targeted where more than 30% of immigrant households were reported to receive some form of public assistance. The plaintiffs included six US citizens who had filed family-based immigration petitions and argued that the policy prevented relatives in Ghana, Jamaica, Guatemala and Ethiopia from receiving immigrant visas. Five Colombian applicants seeking employment-based visas also joined the case. One of them received a visa denial notice that specifically cited the policy.&nbsp;The Trump administration did prevail on one narrower issue. Vargas agreed that the policy did not constitute a formal rule requiring the government to open the measure to public comment before putting it into effect. In defending the policy, government lawyers relied in part on a 2018 Supreme Court ruling that upheld the third version of Trump’s first-term travel ban. That policy restricted entry by nationals of several countries, most of which had majority-Muslim populations.&nbsp;Vargas, however, distinguished that precedent from the current case. She said the 2018 ruling concerned the president’s authority to determine who could enter the United States, while the current dispute involved the separate question of whether a visa could be issued in the first place. Vargas, who was appointed by former President Joe Biden, gave both sides until September 11 to submit proposals for resolving the remaining issues in the case. The Trump administration can appeal the ruling, potentially setting up another legal battle over the scope of executive authority in US immigration policy.

A federal judge strikes down Trump’s 75-country immigrant visa ban, ruling the policy was 'contrary to law' and exceeded Secretary of State Rubio’s authority

A federal judge in Manhattan has struck down the Trump administration’s policy suspending immigrant visa issuance for citizens of 75 countries, ruling that the measure was ‘contrary to law’ and exceeded the statutory authority of Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The State Department introduced the policy in January, pausing immigrant visa processing for people from nearly 40% of the world’s countries. The administration said the move was intended to prevent the admission of immigrants who could potentially 'take welfare and public benefits'. Judge Jeannette Vargas of the Federal District Court in Manhattan rejected that reasoning, ruling that visa denials based solely on the policy must be reversed. Her decision represents another legal setback for the Trump administration’s immigration agenda. Under US immigration law, applicants can be denied entry as a potential ‘public charge’ only after a consular officer evaluates the individual’s circumstances. That assessment must consider factors including the applicant’s finances, age, health, skills and family situation. Vargas found that the State Department’s policy effectively instructed US consular officers to deny immigrant visas based solely on an applicant’s country of nationality, even when the applicant could demonstrate an ability to support themselves. A cable sent by Rubio to US diplomatic and consular posts, which was included in the court record, instructed officers to refuse applicants even when someone “provides additional evidence that demonstrates he or she overcomes the public charge refusal.” “The outcome is predetermined,” Vargas wrote. “The visa will be refused.” Also Read: Nigerian Navy disrupts crude oil theft operation, recovers 93,000 litres in Bonny The judge concluded that the policy conflicted with a 1965 law prohibiting nationality-based discrimination in the issuance of immigrant visas. She also found that another federal provision prevents the secretary of state from controlling how consular officers make individual visa determinations. The ruling applies to denials based on the disputed policy. Visa refusals based on separate legal grounds remain valid, even if officers also referenced the 75-country policy. As a result, the precise number of visa denials that could be reversed remains uncertain. The suspension affected immigrant visas used by people seeking permanent residence in the United States, including those joining family members or moving to the country for employment. It did not apply to nonimmigrant visas, including tourist and student visas. The administration’s list covered countries across the Caribbean, sub-Saharan Africa, the Balkans, the Middle East, Central Asia and Southeast Asia. It included several US partners, including Jordan, Egypt and Georgia. According to the administration, the State Department developed the list using data from the Council of Economic Advisers. Countries were targeted where more than 30% of immigrant households were reported to receive some form of public assistance. The plaintiffs included six US citizens who had filed family-based immigration petitions and argued that the policy prevented relatives in Ghana, Jamaica, Guatemala and Ethiopia from receiving immigrant visas. Five Colombian applicants seeking employment-based visas also joined the case. One of them received a visa denial notice that specifically cited the policy. The Trump administration did prevail on one narrower issue. Vargas agreed that the policy did not constitute a formal rule requiring the government to open the measure to public comment before putting it into effect. In defending the policy, government lawyers relied in part on a 2018 Supreme Court ruling that upheld the third version of Trump’s first-term travel ban. That policy restricted entry by nationals of several countries, most of which had majority-Muslim populations. Vargas, however, distinguished that precedent from the current case. She said the 2018 ruling concerned the president’s authority to determine who could enter the United States, while the current dispute involved the separate question of whether a visa could be issued in the first place. Vargas, who was appointed by former President Joe Biden, gave both sides until September 11 to submit proposals for resolving the remaining issues in the case. The Trump administration can appeal the ruling, potentially setting up another legal battle over the scope of executive authority in US immigration policy.

Trump’s 75-country immigrant visa ban was struck down by a federal judge, who ruled it exceeded legal authority and unlawfully targeted nationalities

'Contrary to law': US Federal judge strikes down Trump administration’s 75-country visa ban

Donald Trump returned to the White House promising to cut government waste, reduce federal spending and bring down America’s deficit. But more than a year into his second term, the US fiscal picture is facing growing pressure, with total national debt surpassing $40 trillion.

The administration launched the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) with an ambitious goal of identifying waste and generating major savings. However, reported savings fell far short of the initial targets, while overall government spending remained high.

Trump’s major tax-and-spending package also created a difficult fiscal trade-off. While the administration argued that lower taxes would boost investment and economic growth, reduced tax revenue can add pressure to the deficit unless spending falls sufficiently.

Tariffs were another key part of Trump’s strategy, with the administration presenting them as both a trade tool and a potential source of revenue. However, tariff revenues have faced volatility while also raising concerns about inflation and higher costs for businesses and consumers.

Trump’s Fiscal Promise Under Pressure: US Debt Surpasses $40 Trillion | Deficit And Borrowing Rise

After organising a UFC fight on the White House lawn, President Donald Trump is set to take a lap of honour at an IndyCar race through the streets of Washington this weekend, as he seeks to put his mark on celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the United States.&nbsp;Racing cars will speed past historic landmarks, including the US Capitol and Smithsonian museums, as 25 drivers complete 147 laps at speeds of up to 185 mph (298 kmh).&nbsp;Workers have welded down more than 200 manhole covers along the 250-mile (400-kilometre) circuit to prevent the force of the speeding cars from tearing them off.&nbsp;Practice and qualifying sessions will take place on Saturday, while the "Freedom 250 Grand Prix" will be held on Sunday.&nbsp;Trump, 80, is expected to take a ceremonial lap of honour in his armoured limousine, "The Beast", before waving the green flag to start the race.&nbsp;The event is being managed by IndyCar championship organisers. The US motorsport series features cars similar to Formula One vehicles but often holds races on oval tracks, including the Indianapolis 500.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-meets-gorkha-leaders-in-darjeeling-mha-panel-to-draft-permanent-political-solution-1787397945546">Amit Shah meets Gorkha leaders in Darjeeling, MHA panel to draft ‘permanent political solution’</a><h2>IndyCar race adds to 250th anniversary events</h2>The race marks another attempt by Trump to put his stamp on Washington's celebrations for the 250th anniversary. The events began with a UFC bout held inside a huge cage on the White House lawn in June.&nbsp;As with the UFC event, IndyCar organisers are covering the cost of the major logistical operation. The race has also forced the closure of some of Washington's busiest roads for several days.&nbsp;Thousands of spectators are expected to line the route for the unprecedented race, which resembles Formula One events held on city streets in Las Vegas, Monaco and Singapore.<h2>Trump takes centre stage in celebrations</h2>Trump has placed himself at the centre of celebrations marking the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, which marked the separation of the original 13 American colonies from Britain.&nbsp;He has also sought to leave his mark on Washington by starting construction of a large ballroom at the White House, renaming institutions after himself and launching a troubled repainting project at the Reflecting Pool on the National Mall.&nbsp;Instead of bringing Americans together, however, the 250th anniversary celebrations have largely become a source of political discord.&nbsp;In a July 3 speech at Mount Rushmore, Trump launched a strong attack on Democrats and said the country faced a "communist menace".&nbsp;He later became the main attraction at a major Fourth of July concert in Washington after several musical artists withdrew, saying the event had become too political.&nbsp;The former reality TV star ended the evening with military jet flyovers followed by a world record fireworks display featuring 850,000 rockets over 40 minutes.&nbsp;Polls have meanwhile shown Trump remains deeply unpopular about a year and a half after returning to the White House, with the Iran war and cost of living pushing his approval ratings down.

After hosting a UFC event at the White House, Donald Trump is set to take a ceremonial lap at an IndyCar race in Washington as part of the US 250th anniversary celebrations.

After organising a UFC fight on the White House lawn, President Donald Trump is set to take a lap of honour at an IndyCar race through the streets of Washington this weekend, as he seeks to put his mark on celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the United States. Racing cars will speed past historic landmarks, including the US Capitol and Smithsonian museums, as 25 drivers complete 147 laps at speeds of up to 185 mph (298 kmh). Workers have welded down more than 200 manhole covers along the 250-mile (400-kilometre) circuit to prevent the force of the speeding cars from tearing them off. Practice and qualifying sessions will take place on Saturday, while the "Freedom 250 Grand Prix" will be held on Sunday. Trump, 80, is expected to take a ceremonial lap of honour in his armoured limousine, "The Beast", before waving the green flag to start the race. The event is being managed by IndyCar championship organisers. The US motorsport series features cars similar to Formula One vehicles but often holds races on oval tracks, including the Indianapolis 500. Also Read: Amit Shah meets Gorkha leaders in Darjeeling, MHA panel to draft ‘permanent political solution’ IndyCar race adds to 250th anniversary events The race marks another attempt by Trump to put his stamp on Washington's celebrations for the 250th anniversary. The events began with a UFC bout held inside a huge cage on the White House lawn in June. As with the UFC event, IndyCar organisers are covering the cost of the major logistical operation. The race has also forced the closure of some of Washington's busiest roads for several days. Thousands of spectators are expected to line the route for the unprecedented race, which resembles Formula One events held on city streets in Las Vegas, Monaco and Singapore. Trump takes centre stage in celebrations Trump has placed himself at the centre of celebrations marking the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, which marked the separation of the original 13 American colonies from Britain. He has also sought to leave his mark on Washington by starting construction of a large ballroom at the White House, renaming institutions after himself and launching a troubled repainting project at the Reflecting Pool on the National Mall. Instead of bringing Americans together, however, the 250th anniversary celebrations have largely become a source of political discord. In a July 3 speech at Mount Rushmore, Trump launched a strong attack on Democrats and said the country faced a "communist menace". He later became the main attraction at a major Fourth of July concert in Washington after several musical artists withdrew, saying the event had become too political. The former reality TV star ended the evening with military jet flyovers followed by a world record fireworks display featuring 850,000 rockets over 40 minutes. Polls have meanwhile shown Trump remains deeply unpopular about a year and a half after returning to the White House, with the Iran war and cost of living pushing his approval ratings down.

After hosting a UFC event at the White House, Donald Trump is set to take a ceremonial lap at an IndyCar race in Washington as part of the US 250th anniversary celebrations.

After UFC at White House, Trump gears up for motor race in US capital

Questions are growing over Natalie Harp’s role inside the White House, her close access to President Donald Trump and the extent of her reported influence around the president.

The scrutiny follows reports about private letters Harp allegedly wrote to Trump after accompanying him during a 2023 trip to Scotland and Ireland. The reported letters described her deep personal devotion to Trump and her desire to maintain his approval.

Harp, who serves as a special assistant and executive assistant to President Trump, has reportedly been described as an important gatekeeper around the president. Reports have also raised questions about her access to Trump and her role in facilitating contact with him.

Former officials and political commentators have raised concerns about whether her level of access and influence is appropriate, including potential national-security implications. The White House, however, has defended Harp as one of Trump's most loyal and hardworking aides and has rejected criticism of her role.

Natalie Harp’s White House Role Under Scrutiny | Trump Ally’s Access And Influence Questioned

As the ongoing conflict approaches the six-month mark, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has publicly called for an immediate end to the hostilities, asserting that Tehran is currently operating from a "position of power and dignity". The remarks come in direct response to escalating economic pressures from Washington, with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent vowing an aggressive campaign of fresh sanctions aimed at crippling the Iranian economy.  


US-Iran war: Iran president urges end to war from position of strength

As the war with Iran approaches the six-month mark and US stockpiles of key weapons come under increasing pressure, the Trump administration is shifting its focus toward an aggressive economic campaign against Tehran. President Donald Trump this week announced what he described as an ‘unprecedented’ level of economic warfare and isolation against Iran. The administration says the campaign is designed to pressure Iran’s leadership into abandoning its nuclear program and fully reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz to oil and natural gas tankers.&nbsp;The economic push comes as Trump confronts an increasingly unpopular war that has so far failed to produce a clear path toward an end. With crucial midterm elections approaching and control of Congress at stake, the administration is putting greater emphasis on sanctions and financial pressure in an effort to force Tehran into submission. Iran, however, has experienced decades of U.S. sanctions and has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to adapt to economic restrictions. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded to the latest threat Friday by posting the history of US sanctions against Iran on X. “We have seen this movie before. Same bull. Different bullies.”&nbsp;The administration’s strategy has received support from Iran hawks, who argue that intensified economic pressure could eventually force Tehran to make major concessions. Other analysts, however, warn that Washington may be repeating mistakes made by previous administrations.<h2>Threat of secondary sanctions</h2>Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent offered a glimpse into the next phase of the campaign during a CNBC interview on Thursday. He warned that the United States could impose secondary sanctions on countries and companies that continue doing business with Iran. Bessent did not identify potential targets. The earlier phase of Operation Economic Fury focused largely on individuals and entities involved in buying Iranian oil or accessing the country’s financial system.&nbsp;China and India are among the major purchasers of Iranian oil, meaning any broader secondary-sanctions campaign could have significant consequences for Washington’s relations with two major Asian powers. “If you insist on doing business with them, then the U.S. Treasury and U.S. government will put its full might and force against you,” Bessent said. “It’s time for our allies and the rest of the world to make a decision.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-dr-congo-s-bundibugyo-ebola-outbreak-became-its-deadliest-explained-1787312611253">Why DR Congo's Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak became its deadliest? EXPLAINED</a><h2>Secondary sanctions could hurt US interests</h2>Most major parts of Iran’s energy, financial and transportation sectors are already subject to US sanctions. The administration’s next step therefore appears likely to involve targeting countries and companies that continue maintaining economic ties with Tehran. The strategy resembles the “maximum pressure” campaign Trump pursued during his first term, but this time it is being combined with military action.&nbsp;The experience of the first administration demonstrated the difficulties involved in enforcing secondary sanctions. Washington frequently faced pressure to grant waivers to countries dependent on Iranian oil, while aggressive enforcement risked damaging US economic and diplomatic interests. “Trump’s strategy now rests on targeting Tehran directly by impeding its touch points and access to the formal financial system and international economy,” said Behnam Ben Taleblu, senior director of the FDD’s Iran program. “This will require making the Iran issue more important in U.S. bilateral relations with countries in Europe and Asia.”The challenge for Washington will be persuading allies and trading partners to accept the economic costs of cutting ties with Iran.<h2>Tehran says sanctions will not force surrender</h2>Iranian officials have rejected the idea that escalating economic pressure will force the government to accept Washington’s demands. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei accused the United States of returning to sanctions whenever diplomatic efforts become difficult. “Iran has demonstrated over decades that it will not be strangled by these exhausted refrains,” he said. “The real risk is that American politicians, clinging to this bad habit, will instead strangle their own remaining chances of a less humiliating exit from a crisis of their own making.”

Trump escalates economic warfare against Iran as the war nears six months, targeting Tehran with expanded sanctions and threatening secondary sanctions

As the war with Iran approaches the six-month mark and US stockpiles of key weapons come under increasing pressure, the Trump administration is shifting its focus toward an aggressive economic campaign against Tehran. President Donald Trump this week announced what he described as an ‘unprecedented’ level of economic warfare and isolation against Iran. The administration says the campaign is designed to pressure Iran’s leadership into abandoning its nuclear program and fully reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz to oil and natural gas tankers. The economic push comes as Trump confronts an increasingly unpopular war that has so far failed to produce a clear path toward an end. With crucial midterm elections approaching and control of Congress at stake, the administration is putting greater emphasis on sanctions and financial pressure in an effort to force Tehran into submission. Iran, however, has experienced decades of U.S. sanctions and has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to adapt to economic restrictions. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded to the latest threat Friday by posting the history of US sanctions against Iran on X. “We have seen this movie before. Same bull. Different bullies.” The administration’s strategy has received support from Iran hawks, who argue that intensified economic pressure could eventually force Tehran to make major concessions. Other analysts, however, warn that Washington may be repeating mistakes made by previous administrations. Threat of secondary sanctions Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent offered a glimpse into the next phase of the campaign during a CNBC interview on Thursday. He warned that the United States could impose secondary sanctions on countries and companies that continue doing business with Iran. Bessent did not identify potential targets. The earlier phase of Operation Economic Fury focused largely on individuals and entities involved in buying Iranian oil or accessing the country’s financial system. China and India are among the major purchasers of Iranian oil, meaning any broader secondary-sanctions campaign could have significant consequences for Washington’s relations with two major Asian powers. “If you insist on doing business with them, then the U.S. Treasury and U.S. government will put its full might and force against you,” Bessent said. “It’s time for our allies and the rest of the world to make a decision.” Also Read: Why DR Congo's Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak became its deadliest? EXPLAINED Secondary sanctions could hurt US interests Most major parts of Iran’s energy, financial and transportation sectors are already subject to US sanctions. The administration’s next step therefore appears likely to involve targeting countries and companies that continue maintaining economic ties with Tehran. The strategy resembles the “maximum pressure” campaign Trump pursued during his first term, but this time it is being combined with military action. The experience of the first administration demonstrated the difficulties involved in enforcing secondary sanctions. Washington frequently faced pressure to grant waivers to countries dependent on Iranian oil, while aggressive enforcement risked damaging US economic and diplomatic interests. “Trump’s strategy now rests on targeting Tehran directly by impeding its touch points and access to the formal financial system and international economy,” said Behnam Ben Taleblu, senior director of the FDD’s Iran program. “This will require making the Iran issue more important in U.S. bilateral relations with countries in Europe and Asia.” The challenge for Washington will be persuading allies and trading partners to accept the economic costs of cutting ties with Iran. Tehran says sanctions will not force surrender Iranian officials have rejected the idea that escalating economic pressure will force the government to accept Washington’s demands. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei accused the United States of returning to sanctions whenever diplomatic efforts become difficult. “Iran has demonstrated over decades that it will not be strangled by these exhausted refrains,” he said. “The real risk is that American politicians, clinging to this bad habit, will instead strangle their own remaining chances of a less humiliating exit from a crisis of their own making.”

Trump is escalating economic pressure on Iran as the war nears six months, threatening secondary sanctions to force Tehran to surrender its nuclear ambitions

Trump warns of ‘economic D-Day’ against Iran, but Tehran knows sanctions well

U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified pressure on Iran, warning countries against providing Tehran with any economic lifeline. The threat has put allies and trading partners on edge as Washington seeks to tighten economic pressure on the Islamic Republic. At the center of the debate is Iran's trade network, with China remaining the largest buyer of Iranian oil despite years of U.S. sanctions and diplomatic pressure. The developments are reigniting questions over the effectiveness of sanctions, global energy security and the future of Iran's economic ties.

Trump warns nations giving any economic lifeline to Iran

The Trump administration is facing criticism after reports that a US Navy aircraft carrier originally named after Black war hero Doris Miller could be renamed to honour President Donald Trump.The Navy had earlier announced that the carrier under construction would be named USS Doris Miller, recognising Miller for his actions during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour in the Second World War.&nbsp;However, CNN reported, citing three sources familiar with internal discussions, that the Navy is now considering a change to the name. Two sources told the network that discussions have taken place about naming the carrier after Trump.&nbsp;“This is a slap in the face to every war hero and every service member who has worn the uniform,” Derrick Johnson, president of the NAACP civil rights group quoted as saying by the Guardian. “Doris Miller earned his place in American history through courage, sacrifice, and service,” added Johnson. “Donald Trump only wants to serve himself.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shameful-uk-australia-and-canada-condemn-israel-over-gaza-aid-convoy-killings-1787331804049">'Shameful': UK, Australia and Canada condemn Israel over Gaza aid convoy killings</a><h3>Doris Miller's Pearl Harbour heroics</h3>Miller served as a Navy cook and reportedly shot down four to six Japanese bombers during the Pearl Harbour attack in 1941, despite having no formal training with the weapon he used.&nbsp;He died in 1943 after a Japanese torpedo struck the USS Liscome Bay, killing about two-thirds of its crew. Actor Cuba Gooding Jr portrayed Miller in the 2001 film Pearl Harbour. &nbsp;Miller received the Navy Cross for his actions during the attack. The citation said: “While at the side of his Captain on the bridge of the battleship U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, Mess Attendant First Class Doris Miller, despite enemy strafing and bombing and in the face of a serious fire, assisted in moving his Captain, who had been mortally wounded, to a place of greater safety, and later manned and operated a machine gun directed at enemy Japanese attacking aircraft until ordered to leave the bridge.”&nbsp;Miller's family has continued to seek an upgrade of his award to the Medal of Honour.&nbsp;No US Navy aircraft carrier has previously been named after a sitting president. Reports that the vessel could instead carry Trump's name have therefore triggered strong criticism.

The Trump administration faces backlash over reports that a US Navy carrier named after Black war hero Doris Miller could be renamed to honour Donald Trump.

The Trump administration is facing criticism after reports that a US Navy aircraft carrier originally named after Black war hero Doris Miller could be renamed to honour President Donald Trump. The Navy had earlier announced that the carrier under construction would be named USS Doris Miller, recognising Miller for his actions during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour in the Second World War. However, CNN reported, citing three sources familiar with internal discussions, that the Navy is now considering a change to the name. Two sources told the network that discussions have taken place about naming the carrier after Trump. “This is a slap in the face to every war hero and every service member who has worn the uniform,” Derrick Johnson, president of the NAACP civil rights group quoted as saying by the Guardian. “Doris Miller earned his place in American history through courage, sacrifice, and service,” added Johnson. “Donald Trump only wants to serve himself.” Also Read: 'Shameful': UK, Australia and Canada condemn Israel over Gaza aid convoy killings Doris Miller's Pearl Harbour heroics Miller served as a Navy cook and reportedly shot down four to six Japanese bombers during the Pearl Harbour attack in 1941, despite having no formal training with the weapon he used. He died in 1943 after a Japanese torpedo struck the USS Liscome Bay, killing about two-thirds of its crew. Actor Cuba Gooding Jr portrayed Miller in the 2001 film Pearl Harbour. Miller received the Navy Cross for his actions during the attack. The citation said: “While at the side of his Captain on the bridge of the battleship U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, Mess Attendant First Class Doris Miller, despite enemy strafing and bombing and in the face of a serious fire, assisted in moving his Captain, who had been mortally wounded, to a place of greater safety, and later manned and operated a machine gun directed at enemy Japanese attacking aircraft until ordered to leave the bridge.” Miller's family has continued to seek an upgrade of his award to the Medal of Honour. No US Navy aircraft carrier has previously been named after a sitting president. Reports that the vessel could instead carry Trump's name have therefore triggered strong criticism.

The Trump administration faces backlash over reports that a US Navy carrier named after Black war hero Doris Miller could be renamed to honour Donald Trump.

Trump under fire as Navy weighs replacing Black war hero's name with his own

US First Lady Melania Trump made a rare joke about her long absence from the public eye on Thursday (Aug 20), opening a White House event with a line that immediately drew attention to the speculation surrounding her low public profile. "Good afternoon. I heard you missed me. Here I am," Melania said with a chuckle as she addressed guests in the White House Rose Garden.The 56-year-old first lady had not been seen publicly since the FIFA World Cup final on July 19. She had also skipped several other high-profile appearances, including the rescheduled White House Correspondents' Dinner on July 24.Her latest appearance came as the White House was also facing questions over President Donald Trump's close aide Natalie Harp, who was among the people involved in Trump's secret aircraft switch during his Turkey trip.Melania's public persona has generally been marked by a reserved, formal style, making moments when she uses humour or reacts spontaneously particularly noticeable.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-want-to-destroy-fbi-charges-35-year-old-jessica-bowie-with-isis-inspired-plot-to-bomb-new-york-capitol-kill-the-senators-1787272657507">'I want to destroy...': FBI charges 35-year-old woman with ISIS-inspired plot to bomb New York Capitol, 'kill the senators'</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">&#39;I heard you missed me&#39;: Melania Trump ends month- long public absence, announces a $2 million Fox Corporation-IndyCar partnership for a scholarship initiative for foster children <a href="https://x.com/kripatistic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kripatistic</a> gets you more <a href="https://t.co/aqxgpLhkkI">pic.twitter.com/aqxgpLhkkI</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2090712881264562277?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>'Empathy' moment that left White House crowd laughing</h2>One of the most widely discussed examples came in May, when Melania praised her husband during an event honouring military mothers."Most know my husband as the strong Commander in Chief, but his empathy transcends the role and shapes a caring leader," she said.The room broke into laughter as she delivered the line, while Trump himself smiled. The moment quickly spread online and became one of the more unusual lighthearted moments of her second term.<h2>'The robots are here'</h2>Another memorable appearance came during a White House technology event in June, when Melania spoke about robotics and artificial intelligence alongside a humanoid robot.Her highly formal delivery, followed by the line "The robots are here", became a viral moment and was picked up by late-night comedy programmes.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-rejects-us-call-to-isolate-iran-says-sanctions-and-pressure-will-not-resolve-conflict-1787299284181">China rejects US call to isolate Iran, says 'sanctions and pressure' will not resolve conflict</a><h2>Taking the joke in 2016</h2>Melania has also shown that she can play along with political humour. At the 2016 Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner, Trump joked about the controversy surrounding her Republican National Convention speech and its similarity to Michelle Obama's earlier remarks.Trump said the media had praised Michelle Obama while criticising Melania for delivering "the exact same speech". Melania, seated behind him, smiled and laughed as the joke landed.&nbsp;

Melania Trump has returned to the White House spotlight after weeks away, opening an event with an unusually playful remark about her absence. Her "I heard you missed me" line immediately drew attention.

US First Lady Melania Trump made a rare joke about her long absence from the public eye on Thursday (Aug 20), opening a White House event with a line that immediately drew attention to the speculation surrounding her low public profile. "Good afternoon. I heard you missed me. Here I am," Melania said with a chuckle as she addressed guests in the White House Rose Garden. The 56-year-old first lady had not been seen publicly since the FIFA World Cup final on July 19. She had also skipped several other high-profile appearances, including the rescheduled White House Correspondents' Dinner on July 24. Her latest appearance came as the White House was also facing questions over President Donald Trump's close aide Natalie Harp, who was among the people involved in Trump's secret aircraft switch during his Turkey trip. Melania's public persona has generally been marked by a reserved, formal style, making moments when she uses humour or reacts spontaneously particularly noticeable. Also read | 'I want to destroy...': FBI charges 35-year-old woman with ISIS-inspired plot to bomb New York Capitol, 'kill the senators'

Melania Trump has returned to the White House spotlight after weeks away, opening an event with an unusually playful remark about her absence. Her "I heard you missed me" line immediately drew attention.

Where was Melania? Trump’s wife returns after weeks with cheeky 'missed me' joke: Her rare moments of humour in public

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Aug 20) signed a memorandum aimed at dramatically expanding America's commercial space industry, setting a target of at least 1,000 space launches and re-entries every year by 2030.The proposed expansion would mark a major jump from the 178 launches recorded last year. That figure was already around 10 times higher than the number recorded in 2013, with Elon Musk's SpaceX accounting for much of the recent growth.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-crushing-economic-campaign-against-iran-threatens-allies-with-tremendous-penalties-1787186991774">Trump announces ‘crushing’ economic campaign against Iran, threatens allies with ‘tremendous’ penalties</a><h2>Government land eyed for new launch sites</h2>The memorandum directs federal agencies to identify government-owned land that could be used for future commercial launch and re-entry sites.Trump has given officials 90 days to identify a new federal re-entry site. Agencies have also been instructed to designate priority airspace for key launch corridors and incorporate space transportation into broader air traffic control modernisation efforts.The administration wants government agencies to work more closely with private companies on space transportation infrastructure while speeding up permitting and environmental reviews.Officials have also been asked to ensure sufficient wireless spectrum is available for launch operations.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/america-s-debt-hits-a-staggering-40-trillion-is-the-us-heading-for-a-crisis-1787187559842">America's debt hits a staggering $40 trillion for the first time. Is the US heading for a crisis?</a><h2>Moon missions remain a priority</h2>The new policy also puts America's return to the Moon at the centre of the administration's space ambitions.Trump wants US astronauts back on the lunar surface by 2028, while directing NASA to support commercial transportation to the Moon and robotic missions to Mars.The administration also wants NASA to explore commercial options for eventually sending humans to Mars.Michael Kratsios, director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, described the policy as a "commercial-first approach".He said it would support having Americans on the Moon by 2028 and initial elements of a Moon base by 2030, alongside stronger launch capabilities for national security.Trump's latest space push comes after lawmakers put renewed emphasis on NASA's Artemis Moon programme, despite the president's earlier focus on Mars missions. The memorandum also directs federal agencies to consider, on a case-by-case basis, requests to launch commercial foreign space vehicles from US territory.

Trump has set an extraordinary new target for America's space industry: 1,000 launches and re-entries every year by 2030. With the US recording just 178 launches last year, the White House is betting heavily on private companies to transform the country's space ambitions.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Aug 20) signed a memorandum aimed at dramatically expanding America's commercial space industry, setting a target of at least 1,000 space launches and re-entries every year by 2030. The proposed expansion would mark a major jump from the 178 launches recorded last year. That figure was already around 10 times higher than the number recorded in 2013, with Elon Musk's SpaceX accounting for much of the recent growth. Also read | Trump announces ‘crushing’ economic campaign against Iran, threatens allies with ‘tremendous’ penalties Government land eyed for new launch sites The memorandum directs federal agencies to identify government-owned land that could be used for future commercial launch and re-entry sites. Trump has given officials 90 days to identify a new federal re-entry site. Agencies have also been instructed to designate priority airspace for key launch corridors and incorporate space transportation into broader air traffic control modernisation efforts. The administration wants government agencies to work more closely with private companies on space transportation infrastructure while speeding up permitting and environmental reviews. Officials have also been asked to ensure sufficient wireless spectrum is available for launch operations. Also read | America's debt hits a staggering $40 trillion for the first time. Is the US heading for a crisis? Moon missions remain a priority The new policy also puts America's return to the Moon at the centre of the administration's space ambitions. Trump wants US astronauts back on the lunar surface by 2028, while directing NASA to support commercial transportation to the Moon and robotic missions to Mars. The administration also wants NASA to explore commercial options for eventually sending humans to Mars. Michael Kratsios, director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, described the policy as a "commercial-first approach". He said it would support having Americans on the Moon by 2028 and initial elements of a Moon base by 2030, alongside stronger launch capabilities for national security. Trump's latest space push comes after lawmakers put renewed emphasis on NASA's Artemis Moon programme, despite the president's earlier focus on Mars missions. The memorandum also directs federal agencies to consider, on a case-by-case basis, requests to launch commercial foreign space vehicles from US territory.

Trump has set an extraordinary new target for America's space industry: 1,000 launches and re-entries every year by 2030. With the US recording just 178 launches last year, the White House is betting heavily on private companies to transform the country's space ambitions.

Trump wants US astronauts back on the lunar surface by 2028; signs 'commercial-first' executive order on space launches

United States President Donald Trump has emphasized the critical importance of maintaining a positive personal rapport with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, stating that their mutual understanding helps stabilize the Korean Peninsula. In recent statements, Trump highlighted that Kim has consistently treated him with respect and noted that ongoing diplomatic engagement remains a priority for constructive bilateral relations.


US-North Korea ties: Trump says very important for him and Kim to get along

US-Iran tensions escalate as Donald Trump announces what he calls the “most crushing economic operation ever” against Iran. The move signals a major expansion of Washington’s economic pressure campaign as the conflict between the US and Iran intensifies. Watch this report for the latest developments, Trump’s Iran strategy, sanctions and the wider impact on the Middle East and global economy.


US-Iran war: Trump announces 'most crushing economic op ever' against Iran

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Aug 19) announced a sweeping new campaign aimed at isolating Iran's economy, warning countries and businesses that help Tehran could face what he called "tremendous" economic consequences.The announcement comes as the conflict approaches its sixth month, with the Strait of Hormuz still heavily disrupted and no clear diplomatic or military resolution in sight. Trump is also facing growing scrutiny at home over the economic cost of the war and pressure on US military resources ahead of the November elections.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-icc-officials-including-president-tomoko-akane-vows-to-systematically-dismantle-court-1787109053555">US sanctions ICC officials, including President Tomoko Akane, vows to 'systematically dismantle' court</a><h2>Trump warns Iran's partners</h2>In a post on Truth Social, Trump described the campaign as the "MOST CRUSHING ECONOMIC OPERATION EVER TAKEN AGAINST ANY COUNTRY"."This will be Economic Warfare and Isolation on an unprecedented scale," he wrote.Trump warned that any country allowing its financial institutions, companies, airports or government bodies to provide support to Iran would face "TREMENDOUS Economic Consequences". He did not specify what penalties would be imposed or name any country other than Iran.Trump said Washington would target activities including "oil smuggling, swap lines, cash transfers, exchange houses, ship registries" and "front companies".

<h2>Economic pressure alongside naval blockade</h2>The announcement follows similar warnings from Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who said last week that Washington was preparing to intensify efforts to economically isolate Iran.Bessent said the campaign would form part of a two-pronged strategy involving economic isolation and a US naval blockade.The Treasury has already been pursuing sanctions against Iran under a campaign known as Operation Economic Fury, aimed at cutting off Tehran's sources of funding.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-suspends-trade-with-iran-accuses-it-of-targeting-gulf-shipping-tehran-calls-claim-baseless-1787100695124">UAE suspends trade with Iran, accuses it of targeting Gulf shipping; Tehran calls claim baseless</a><h2>Strait of Hormuz remains key flashpoint</h2>The economic campaign comes as shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains severely restricted. The conflict began on February 28 with US-Israeli attacks on Iran, followed by Iranian missile and drone strikes across the region.The resulting security threat has sharply reduced commercial traffic through the strategic waterway.Trump said Wednesday that US military efforts were helping ships move through the strait, claiming that "a lot of boats are coming through". Axios reported that US forces had been facilitating the movement of 15 to 20 ships each night in recent weeks, roughly half the pre-war daily oil shipment volume.&nbsp;

Trump has announced a dramatic new economic offensive against Iran, but his warning goes beyond Tehran. Countries and companies that continue helping Iran could also face severe consequences. So, who could be next in Washington's crosshairs?

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Aug 19) announced a sweeping new campaign aimed at isolating Iran's economy, warning countries and businesses that help Tehran could face what he called "tremendous" economic consequences. The announcement comes as the conflict approaches its sixth month, with the Strait of Hormuz still heavily disrupted and no clear diplomatic or military resolution in sight. Trump is also facing growing scrutiny at home over the economic cost of the war and pressure on US military resources ahead of the November elections. Also read | US sanctions ICC officials, including President Tomoko Akane, vows to 'systematically dismantle' court Trump warns Iran's partners In a post on Truth Social, Trump described the campaign as the "MOST CRUSHING ECONOMIC OPERATION EVER TAKEN AGAINST ANY COUNTRY". "This will be Economic Warfare and Isolation on an unprecedented scale," he wrote. Trump warned that any country allowing its financial institutions, companies, airports or government bodies to provide support to Iran would face "TREMENDOUS Economic Consequences". He did not specify what penalties would be imposed or name any country other than Iran. Trump said Washington would target activities including "oil smuggling, swap lines, cash transfers, exchange houses, ship registries" and "front companies".

Trump has announced a dramatic new economic offensive against Iran, but his warning goes beyond Tehran. Countries and companies that continue helping Iran could also face severe consequences. So, who could be next in Washington's crosshairs?

Trump announces ‘crushing’ economic campaign against Iran, threatens allies with ‘tremendous’ penalties

Melania Trump is reportedly unhappy with speculations surrounding US President Donald Trump and his executive assistant Natalie Harp. The discussion grew prominent. The claims of an extramarital affair by the US President have been fuelled by the Democratic Georgian Senator Jon Ossoff, who mocked Trump's close travel ties to Harp during a campaign rally on August 16. White House pushed back aggressively against Ossoff, calling Harp one of the "most loyal and hardest-working aides" on the team.&nbsp;Jon claimed that Donald does not like to “do the job” of President and instead wants to build his ballroom and fly around in the “palace gifted by the emir of Qatar”. This triggered an aggressive response from Trump camp; a source close to White House told Semafor, “the First Lady doesn't like these types of things”. The source also claimed that Donald Trump gets “furious” over public speculation about his personal life.<h2>Natalie Harp ventured into Melania Trump territory</h2>The East Wing, which historically housed the office of the first lady and her staff, was demolished by Trump to make way for his ballroom. According to author and biographer Michael Wolff, Harp was behind it. "People within the White House say that Natalie was one of the people who argued for the ballroom and getting rid of the East Wing," said Wolff in a podcast inside Trump's head. According to the Wall Street Journal, Melania Trump had reservations about the destruction of the East Wing and had even told associates that it was not her project. The New York Times reported on Tuesday that Harp had sent fawning letters to Trump, including one that said, "You are all that matters to me."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-air-force-antarctica-flight-turns-back-russia-missile-warning-1787165392960">US Air Force flight to Antarctica returns after Russian missile launch warning</a><h2>White House's angry retort&nbsp;</h2>"Natalie Harp is one of the most loyal and hardest working aides on President Trump's team... Nobody gives a s*** what this lightweight loser says," said White House spokesman Davis Ingle.White House communications director Steve Cheung called Jon “the biggest c**k loser in politics”, in a post "Instead of denigrating hard-working people serving their country, Jon should look deep into his soul and ask himself why he's a miserable person who hates this country. It's because he's a radical, extremist Dumocrat," said Steve.When Trump was asked about the speculations, he did not address the rumours; rather attacked Jon, calling him "Pee-wee Herman lookalike."&nbsp;

Melania Trump is reportedly unhappy over speculation surrounding Donald Trump and his executive assistant Natalie Harp, as the White House pushes back against the claims.

Melania Trump is reportedly unhappy with speculations surrounding US President Donald Trump and his executive assistant Natalie Harp. The discussion grew prominent. The claims of an extramarital affair by the US President have been fuelled by the Democratic Georgian Senator Jon Ossoff, who mocked Trump's close travel ties to Harp during a campaign rally on August 16. White House pushed back aggressively against Ossoff, calling Harp one of the "most loyal and hardest-working aides" on the team. Jon claimed that Donald does not like to “do the job” of President and instead wants to build his ballroom and fly around in the “palace gifted by the emir of Qatar”. This triggered an aggressive response from Trump camp; a source close to White House told Semafor, “the First Lady doesn't like these types of things”. The source also claimed that Donald Trump gets “furious” over public speculation about his personal life. Natalie Harp ventured into Melania Trump territory The East Wing, which historically housed the office of the first lady and her staff, was demolished by Trump to make way for his ballroom. According to author and biographer Michael Wolff, Harp was behind it. "People within the White House say that Natalie was one of the people who argued for the ballroom and getting rid of the East Wing," said Wolff in a podcast inside Trump's head. According to the Wall Street Journal, Melania Trump had reservations about the destruction of the East Wing and had even told associates that it was not her project. The New York Times reported on Tuesday that Harp had sent fawning letters to Trump, including one that said, "You are all that matters to me." Also Read: US Air Force flight to Antarctica returns after Russian missile launch warning White House's angry retort "Natalie Harp is one of the most loyal and hardest working aides on President Trump's team... Nobody gives a s*** what this lightweight loser says," said White House spokesman Davis Ingle. White House communications director Steve Cheung called Jon “the biggest c**k loser in politics”, in a post "Instead of denigrating hard-working people serving their country, Jon should look deep into his soul and ask himself why he's a miserable person who hates this country. It's because he's a radical, extremist Dumocrat," said Steve. When Trump was asked about the speculations, he did not address the rumours; rather attacked Jon, calling him "Pee-wee Herman lookalike."

Melania Trump is reportedly unhappy over speculation surrounding Donald Trump and his executive assistant Natalie Harp, as the White House pushes back against the claims.

Melania Trump upset over Donald Trump and Natalie Harp affair speculation

President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that the United States has a lot of boats coming through the Strait of Hormuz and claimed possession and complete control of the strait.&nbsp;Speaking to reporters outside the White House, Trump said that the US has a lot of boats coming through the Strait of Hormuz, as he was apparently referring to reports that the US Navy has been assisting in getting some oil safely through the strait.&nbsp;“Last night, we had a lot of boats come through,” Trump said during a tour of the helipad currently under construction outside the White House.&nbsp;“We have possession, complete control of the strait, I mean, outside of nuisance value. And there has been nuisance value when they shoot a drone every once in a while.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-gets-miffed-by-us-ambassador-sergio-gor-s-j-k-important-part-of-india-remark-issues-demarche-1787157507821">Pakistan gets miffed by US Ambassador Sergio Gor’s ‘J&amp;K important part of India’ remark, issues demarche</a>&nbsp;He continued, “And not everybody is going to go through but they come through and over the last couple of weeks we’ve had a lot of oil coming in. It’s not going to be perfect, but it’s a lot of oil coming in.”&nbsp;The White House hasn’t directly admitted the US Navy is assisting a limited number of oil tankers out of the strait, though The New York Times reported on Wednesday that about 5 million barrels of oil are getting through the strait daily, down from 15 million barrels before the war.&nbsp;&nbsp;“One of the reasons that oil hasn’t gone to the proverbial $300 a barrel — it’s at $83, $84, $85 — and it’ll be a lot lower when this is over because we have plenty of oil,” Trump said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-prepared-to-defend-all-allies-after-reports-of-iran-mulling-attacks-on-us-targets-in-europe-1787141867863">NATO ‘prepared to defend all allies,‘ says official after reports of Iran mulling attacks on US targets in Europe</a>&nbsp;“One of the reasons that it never went to $300, $350 numbers is because we do have a lot coming in.”Brent crude, the international standard for oil prices, was at about $92 a barrel on Wednesday and has been over $90 all week, creeping up from a wartime low of $71 during a brief ceasefire in late June and early July.&nbsp;Trump also said that “people” were coming to the United States for oil supplies, but did not specify who was coming to the US.“They’re coming to Texas, Alaska, Louisiana to get oil,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gen-z-threat-is-the-new-jaantay-nahin-ho-mera-baap-kaun-hai-omar-abdullah-reacts-to-viral-video-at-kargil-checkpoint-1787153305120">Gen Z ‘threat’ is the new ‘jaantay nahin ho mera baap kaun hai’: Omar Abdullah reacts to viral video at Kargil checkpoint</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, the US Central Command said on Wednesday that the military blockade on the Strait of Hormuz redirected one ship in the past day, bringing the total number of vessels prevented from exiting or entering Iranian ports to 65 since the blockade was restarted on July 14.&nbsp;&nbsp;President Trump has consistently touted the blockade as a reason he is not concerned over negotiations with Iran being on hold at the moment.

The White House hasn’t directly admitted the US Navy is assisting a limited number of oil tankers out of the strait. Brent crude, the international standard for oil prices, was at about $92 a barrel on Wednesday and has been over $90 all week, creeping up from a wartime low of $71.

President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that the United States has a lot of boats coming through the Strait of Hormuz and claimed possession and complete control of the strait. Speaking to reporters outside the White House, Trump said that the US has a lot of boats coming through the Strait of Hormuz, as he was apparently referring to reports that the US Navy has been assisting in getting some oil safely through the strait. “Last night, we had a lot of boats come through,” Trump said during a tour of the helipad currently under construction outside the White House. “We have possession, complete control of the strait, I mean, outside of nuisance value. And there has been nuisance value when they shoot a drone every once in a while.” Also Read: Pakistan gets miffed by US Ambassador Sergio Gor’s ‘J&K important part of India’ remark, issues demarche He continued, “And not everybody is going to go through but they come through and over the last couple of weeks we’ve had a lot of oil coming in. It’s not going to be perfect, but it’s a lot of oil coming in.” The White House hasn’t directly admitted the US Navy is assisting a limited number of oil tankers out of the strait, though The New York Times reported on Wednesday that about 5 million barrels of oil are getting through the strait daily, down from 15 million barrels before the war. “One of the reasons that oil hasn’t gone to the proverbial $300 a barrel — it’s at $83, $84, $85 — and it’ll be a lot lower when this is over because we have plenty of oil,” Trump said. Also Read: NATO ‘prepared to defend all allies,‘ says official after reports of Iran mulling attacks on US targets in Europe “One of the reasons that it never went to $300, $350 numbers is because we do have a lot coming in.” Brent crude, the international standard for oil prices, was at about $92 a barrel on Wednesday and has been over $90 all week, creeping up from a wartime low of $71 during a brief ceasefire in late June and early July. Trump also said that “people” were coming to the United States for oil supplies, but did not specify who was coming to the US. “They’re coming to Texas, Alaska, Louisiana to get oil,” he said. Also Read: Gen Z ‘threat’ is the new ‘jaantay nahin ho mera baap kaun hai’: Omar Abdullah reacts to viral video at Kargil checkpoint Meanwhile, the US Central Command said on Wednesday that the military blockade on the Strait of Hormuz redirected one ship in the past day, bringing the total number of vessels prevented from exiting or entering Iranian ports to 65 since the blockade was restarted on July 14. President Trump has consistently touted the blockade as a reason he is not concerned over negotiations with Iran being on hold at the moment.

The White House hasn’t directly admitted the US Navy is assisting a limited number of oil tankers out of the strait. Brent crude, the international standard for oil prices, was at about $92 a barrel on Wednesday and has been over $90 all week, creeping up from a wartime low of $71.

‘Lot of boats’ coming through Strait of Hormuz, says Trump, admits to ‘nuisance’ of Iranian drones

In a highly unusual move, United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Aug 19) confirmed to reporters that he plans to meet with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un later this year. On being asked whether he will be meeting the North Korean President, Trump said “Yeah, I will be.”&nbsp;If he meets Kim Jong Un it will be his fourth meeting with the Korean leader. The previous meetings between the two leaders were held in &nbsp;2018 and 2019. Notably, US does not have formal diplomatic relations with North Korea.&nbsp;On being asked whether both the leaders have been exchanging letters as done in the past, Trump said “I can’t tell you that,” but added that he got along with the leader.&nbsp;“And you know what? the fact that I get along with him, that’s a good thing, not a bad thing. He has 57 very powerful nuclear weapons," he added.&nbsp;<h2>Trump orders to reduce joint military exercises with South Korea</h2>&nbsp;Trump in recent days has hailed his relationship with Kim. On Monday (Aug19) Trump said the US will "substantially reduce" joint military exercises with South Korea, citing his "very good relationship" with the North Korean leader.&nbsp;In a Truth Social post, he also added that South Korea had recently declined to join the US in the "denuclearisation" of Iran.&nbsp;"Based on my very good relationship with Kim Jong Un, of North Korea, I am not happy with the fact that the United States has, long ago, agreed to participate in Joint Military Exercises with South Korea. These exercises are not only costly, with much of these costs paid for by the United States of America (as usual!), but send a signal that is totally inappropriate and hostile, to a Country that, as long as Donald J. Trump has been President, has been unthreatening and respectful," wrote Trump on Truth Social.&nbsp;"Therefore, and based on the fact that it is too late to cancel, I have instructed Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to substantially reduce the Joint Military Exercises! While somewhat unrelated (?), I recently asked the President of South Korea if they would like to join us in the Denuclearization of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and they said, “No thanks!” Thank you for your attention to this matter," Trump posted," he added.&nbsp;

If Trump meets Kim Jong Un it will be his fourth meeting with the Korean leader. The previous meetings between the two leaders were held in  2018 and 2019.

In a highly unusual move, United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Aug 19) confirmed to reporters that he plans to meet with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un later this year. On being asked whether he will be meeting the North Korean President, Trump said “Yeah, I will be.” If he meets Kim Jong Un it will be his fourth meeting with the Korean leader. The previous meetings between the two leaders were held in 2018 and 2019. Notably, US does not have formal diplomatic relations with North Korea. On being asked whether both the leaders have been exchanging letters as done in the past, Trump said “I can’t tell you that,” but added that he got along with the leader. “And you know what? the fact that I get along with him, that’s a good thing, not a bad thing. He has 57 very powerful nuclear weapons," he added. Trump orders to reduce joint military exercises with South Korea Trump in recent days has hailed his relationship with Kim. On Monday (Aug19) Trump said the US will "substantially reduce" joint military exercises with South Korea, citing his "very good relationship" with the North Korean leader. In a Truth Social post, he also added that South Korea had recently declined to join the US in the "denuclearisation" of Iran. "Based on my very good relationship with Kim Jong Un, of North Korea, I am not happy with the fact that the United States has, long ago, agreed to participate in Joint Military Exercises with South Korea. These exercises are not only costly, with much of these costs paid for by the United States of America (as usual!), but send a signal that is totally inappropriate and hostile, to a Country that, as long as Donald J. Trump has been President, has been unthreatening and respectful," wrote Trump on Truth Social. "Therefore, and based on the fact that it is too late to cancel, I have instructed Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to substantially reduce the Joint Military Exercises! While somewhat unrelated (?), I recently asked the President of South Korea if they would like to join us in the Denuclearization of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and they said, “No thanks!” Thank you for your attention to this matter," Trump posted," he added.

If Trump meets Kim Jong Un it will be his fourth meeting with the Korean leader. The previous meetings between the two leaders were held in &nbsp;2018 and 2019.

'North Korea has 57 nuclear weapons': Trump says he plans to meet Kim Jong Un this year

The debate surrounding federal election legislation has intensified following renewed discussions regarding proposals such as the Save America Act, which seeks to mandate strict voter identification requirements across United States elections.


'Save America Act' mandates photo ID for voting in US elections

US President Donald Trump has been on a mission to mandate the requirement of a voter ID, to prevent non-citizens from voting in elections.&nbsp;Trump has now lauded India's voter ID system, renewing his appeal for the passage of the 'Save America Act'.&nbsp;Trump revealed that India's Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar had questioned his administration on how people can exercise their franchise in US polls without furnishing a voter ID.&nbsp;Highlighting India's case, Trump said, “India’s last election had 646,000,000 voters. Less than 1% voted by mail, and every single voter had to have a valid photo identity document.”&nbsp;While this legislation has been passed by the US House of Representatives on multiple occasions, it has failed to clear the Senate so far.&nbsp;This bill makes it compulsory for states to register only those people as voters who can prove their citizenship via documents such as passport, birth certificate, a government-issued ID or a military record showing place of birth.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Additionally, people will be able to cast their vote in federal elections only after producing a valid voter ID. While India's election process remains robust, with the EC issuing photo identity cards to voters since 1993, its decision to conduct a special intensive revision of electoral rolls has been drawing ire from the opposition. This is because a large number of voters are being deleted. Take Maharashtra for example. While the state has 9.78 crore registered voters, enumeration forms of over two crore voters have not been received. This implies that nearly 21% of the total voters will not feature on the draft electoral roll set to be published on August 24. On its part though, the EC has categorised these voters as absent, duplicate, deceased and permanently shifted. In the next phase of SIR, aggrieved persons can also file an appeal against their exclusion, or register as new voters if they have shifted to a new place. In India's national capital, the issue is more acute. As per data released by the chief electoral officer, at least one in three Delhi voters face the risk of deletion. This is because 33% of enumeration forms are yet to be submitted. This has now triggered a row with Delhi Congress president Devender Yadav accusing booth level officers of not distributing the enumeration forms in unauthorised colonies and villages. However, this allegation was debunked by EC, which claimed to have distributed SIR forms to all existing voters. While this may come across as a bureaucratic exercise, it can have serious implications from an electoral perspective. For instance, in this year's West Bengal assembly polls, a staggering 91 lakh voters were deleted. While 27 lakh voters challenged their exclusion, they were unable to exercise their franchise, as their appeals weren't heard in time. Apart from the legal argument, the SIR process raises another question. With India not even having a standard citizenship document, why is the onus on voters to furnish their as well as their parents' records? And if the discrepancy in the electoral rolls is so huge, how were these people allowed to vote for so many years? While the debate continues, it is clear that every eligible voter deserves to be included in the electoral roll.

The 'Save America Act' makes it compulsory for states to register only those people as voters who can prove their citizenship via documents such as passport, birth certificate, a government-issued ID or a military record showing place of birth. It has failed to clear the Senate so far.

US President Donald Trump has been on a mission to mandate the requirement of a voter ID, to prevent non-citizens from voting in elections. Trump has now lauded India's voter ID system, renewing his appeal for the passage of the 'Save America Act'. Trump revealed that India's Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar had questioned his administration on how people can exercise their franchise in US polls without furnishing a voter ID. Highlighting India's case, Trump said, “India’s last election had 646,000,000 voters. Less than 1% voted by mail, and every single voter had to have a valid photo identity document.” While this legislation has been passed by the US House of Representatives on multiple occasions, it has failed to clear the Senate so far. This bill makes it compulsory for states to register only those people as voters who can prove their citizenship via documents such as passport, birth certificate, a government-issued ID or a military record showing place of birth.

The 'Save America Act' makes it compulsory for states to register only those people as voters who can prove their citizenship via documents such as passport, birth certificate, a government-issued ID or a military record showing place of birth. It has failed to clear the Senate so far.

Trump lauds India's election system, rising anger in India at SIR exclusion | Gravitas

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that there are no ongoing talks between the US and Iran, and that no such talks are scheduled. He claimed that the Strait of Hormuz was open, while Iran said that the Strait of Hormuz is closed and is likely to remain closed until the US agrees with Iranian demands."There are no talks or conversations going on or scheduled with the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Naval Blockade remains in full force and effect. The Hormuz Strait is open and operating. All water mines have been removed or detonated," Trump wrote in a Truth Social post.&nbsp;This is in direct contradiction to Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law and special envoy, who suggested there were “positive” and “active” talks between the US and Iran. Kushner told Fox News that “President Trump is going to be very patient... he doesn’t want to rush to a deal”.On Monday, Trump said that Iranian officials “want to make a deal, but they’re not going to make the kind of deal that I feel is necessary,” before repeating the key demand that Iran will never have nuclear weapons.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/satyendar-jain-arrested-delhi-jal-board-scam-1787068144297">AAP leader Satyendar Jain and 5 others arrested in alleged ₹1.94-crore Delhi Jal Board scam</a>A senior Iranian official told Reuters on Monday that Iran is looking to shift to a "fully offensive" military posture. Qatar's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Majed Al Ansari, stated that broader US-Iran negotiations cannot resume until Iran and Oman finalise a bilateral agreement regarding navigation rules through the Strait. While discussing with Fox News the stalled peace negotiations surrounding the US-Iran war, Trump stated, "If Oman gets in the way, we'll bomb the s** out of them."Meanwhile, Iran’s top negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf ‌said in comments published by state ⁠media on ⁠Tuesday that the ‌Strait of Hormuz will ⁠remain closed until the ‌United States ‌meets ‌conditions ⁠of ⁠the interim deal with Iran, including ‌lifting the marine blockade and sanctions ‌as well as freeing ⁠Iran’s frozen assets.

Donald Trump denies ongoing US-Iran talks, contradicting envoy Jared Kushner, who said Washington and Tehran are engaged in “positive” and “active” conversations.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that there are no ongoing talks between the US and Iran, and that no such talks are scheduled. He claimed that the Strait of Hormuz was open, while Iran said that the Strait of Hormuz is closed and is likely to remain closed until the US agrees with Iranian demands. "There are no talks or conversations going on or scheduled with the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Naval Blockade remains in full force and effect. The Hormuz Strait is open and operating. All water mines have been removed or detonated," Trump wrote in a Truth Social post. This is in direct contradiction to Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law and special envoy, who suggested there were “positive” and “active” talks between the US and Iran. Kushner told Fox News that “President Trump is going to be very patient... he doesn’t want to rush to a deal”. On Monday, Trump said that Iranian officials “want to make a deal, but they’re not going to make the kind of deal that I feel is necessary,” before repeating the key demand that Iran will never have nuclear weapons. Also Read: AAP leader Satyendar Jain and 5 others arrested in alleged ₹1.94-crore Delhi Jal Board scam A senior Iranian official told Reuters on Monday that Iran is looking to shift to a "fully offensive" military posture. Qatar's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Majed Al Ansari, stated that broader US-Iran negotiations cannot resume until Iran and Oman finalise a bilateral agreement regarding navigation rules through the Strait. While discussing with Fox News the stalled peace negotiations surrounding the US-Iran war, Trump stated, "If Oman gets in the way, we'll bomb the s** out of them." Meanwhile, Iran’s top negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf ‌said in comments published by state ⁠media on ⁠Tuesday that the ‌Strait of Hormuz will ⁠remain closed until the ‌United States ‌meets ‌conditions ⁠of ⁠the interim deal with Iran, including ‌lifting the marine blockade and sanctions ‌as well as freeing ⁠Iran’s frozen assets.

Donald Trump denies ongoing US-Iran talks, contradicting envoy Jared Kushner, who said Washington and Tehran are engaged in “positive” and “active” conversations.

Trump denies US-Iran talks as Kushner says negotiations are active

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday defended the credibility of India’s electoral system after US President Donald Trump cited India’s elections while renewing his call for mandatory photo identification for voters in the United States. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal was asked about Trump’s comments during the ministry’s press briefing. Jaiswal said he had no specific response to Trump’s remarks but highlighted the global standing of India’s election machinery. "I have no specific comment to make on the remarks. I can say, however, that the credibility and robustness of India's election machinery are well-established facts globally," Jaiswal told reporters.<h2>What Trump said about India’s election system</h2>Trump referred to India’s Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar while making the case for stricter voter identification requirements in the US. The US president said Kumar had raised questions about how elections could be conducted without valid photo identification. Trump also cited the number of voters who participated in India’s last general election and pointed to the limited use of postal ballots.&nbsp;"Earlier this month, India's Chief Election Commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar, asked our Administration. How can you have Elections in the US without a valid Photo ID? India's last Election had 646,000,000 Voters! Less than 1 per cent voted by mail, and every single Voter had to have a VALID Photo Identity Document. We need to pass THE SAVE AMERICA ACT, now!" Trump said in a post on Truth Social. Trump has been advocating for Congress to pass the SAVE America Act, a proposed measure focused on voter registration, proof of citizenship and identification requirements for federal elections.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/burnham-says-uk-will-support-ukraine-100-after-russia-warning-over-kyiv-s-use-of-british-made-drones-1787060189422">Burnham says UK will support Ukraine ‘100%’ after Russia warning over Kyiv's use of British-made drones</a><h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">VIDEO | Delhi: On US President Donald Trump praising India&#39;s election system and recalling Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar&#39;s remarks on the lack of voter identification in American polls, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, &quot;... I can say, however, that the… <a href="https://t.co/i7Z9M1ukdT">pic.twitter.com/i7Z9M1ukdT</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://x.com/PTI_News/status/2089700384491385241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Trump administration backs voter ID push</h2>Trump’s comments came about a week after Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar met US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor. During the meeting, the two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in election management and training for election officials. Gor also backed Trump’s comments in a post on X, reiterating the US administration’s argument for voter identification requirements. “President Donald J. Trump is absolutely correct! 646 MILLION voters, every single one required an ID in India’s last election. Congress should pass THE SAVE AMERICA ACT!”&nbsp;According to the White House, the proposed legislation is intended to ensure that only US citizens participate in federal elections."American citizens -- and only American citizens -- should decide American elections," the White House said while describing the SAVE America Act as a "common sense, bipartisan bill."&nbsp;The White House said the proposed law would require voters to provide valid identification and proof of citizenship when registering for federal elections. It would also introduce tighter restrictions on mail-in voting, with exceptions for circumstances such as illness, disability, military service or travel. The administration has also said the legislation would require states to remove non-citizens from federal voter rolls. "If you want to register to vote in the United States, you have to be a citizen in the United States," the White House said.<h2>Congress hits back at Trump and Gyanesh Kumar</h2>The remarks also drew criticism from the Indian opposition. Congress leader and Lok Sabha MP Pawan Khera directly addressed Trump in a post on X, taking a sarcastic swipe at the US president’s praise for India’s election machinery. "Dear @realDonaldTrump, please take Gyanesh Kumar Gupta to America. And keep him there. We will send our EVMs too by the next available flight. For all the insults and bullying you've sent our way, this is the least we can do for you. To SIR, With Love, from India," Khera wrote on X.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal backs India’s election machinery after Donald Trump cites India’s voter ID system while pushing the SAVE America Act

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday defended the credibility of India’s electoral system after US President Donald Trump cited India’s elections while renewing his call for mandatory photo identification for voters in the United States. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal was asked about Trump’s comments during the ministry’s press briefing. Jaiswal said he had no specific response to Trump’s remarks but highlighted the global standing of India’s election machinery. "I have no specific comment to make on the remarks. I can say, however, that the credibility and robustness of India's election machinery are well-established facts globally," Jaiswal told reporters. What Trump said about India’s election system Trump referred to India’s Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar while making the case for stricter voter identification requirements in the US. The US president said Kumar had raised questions about how elections could be conducted without valid photo identification. Trump also cited the number of voters who participated in India’s last general election and pointed to the limited use of postal ballots. "Earlier this month, India's Chief Election Commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar, asked our Administration. How can you have Elections in the US without a valid Photo ID? India's last Election had 646,000,000 Voters! Less than 1 per cent voted by mail, and every single Voter had to have a VALID Photo Identity Document. We need to pass THE SAVE AMERICA ACT, now!" Trump said in a post on Truth Social. Trump has been advocating for Congress to pass the SAVE America Act, a proposed measure focused on voter registration, proof of citizenship and identification requirements for federal elections. Also Read: Burnham says UK will support Ukraine ‘100%’ after Russia warning over Kyiv's use of British-made drones Watch the video here

MEA backs India’s election system after Trump cites Indian voter ID rules while pushing the SAVE America Act and stricter US voting requirements

'Credibility and robustness' of India's election system well established globally: MEA

US President Donald Trump posted a graphic on the Truth Social platform that depicts the Strait of Hormuz as a "new U.S. Territory”. The graphic featured a map of the strategic waterway, claiming that Washington has total control over it. The post comes just after Iran denied opening the Strait of Hormuz until the US naval blockade is lifted.&nbsp;

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi directly mocked U.S. President Donald Trump on social media, dismissing Trump's declaration that the strategic shipping lane would be annexed as "new U.S. territory" as pure delusion."Just as Trump correctly wrote the name of the eternal Persian Gulf, soon his delusion regarding the Strait of Hormuz will either be corrected, or we will correct the delusions of this deluded man," said Gharibabadi in a post on X.President Donald Trump on Friday said he would designate the Strait of Hormuz a territory of the United States “pretty soon” as the status of the waterway, a global chokepoint through which a fifth of global oil and gas passes, remains under a military and diplomatic deadlock.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/abdul-el-sayed-trump-main-character-midterms-michigan-senate-1786989679086">Abdul El-Sayed hits back at Trump: ‘He’s going to turn me into the main character of the midterms’</a><h2>Ghalibaf declared Hormuz will remain closed</h2>Iran's parliament speaker Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf said on Tuesday that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the US lifts the naval blockade and meets Tehran's demands.&nbsp;“I want to state clearly that the Strait of Hormuz will not be opened until the American commitments stipulated in the memorandum of understanding... are implemented,” said Ghalibaf in a speech broadcast on state television.Trump on Thursday threatened to bomb Oman as it was negotiating with Iran over opening a route at the Strait of Hormuz. &nbsp;On the other hand, Donald Trump’s envoy and son-in-law Jared Kushner said the United States and Iran were having “very positive and active conversations”, while noting that “there’s really not a lot of trust between America and Iran after all these years”.

Donald Trump calls the Strait of Hormuz “new US territory” as Iran mocks the claim and vows to keep the strategic waterway closed until US demands are met.

US President Donald Trump posted a graphic on the Truth Social platform that depicts the Strait of Hormuz as a "new U.S. Territory”. The graphic featured a map of the strategic waterway, claiming that Washington has total control over it. The post comes just after Iran denied opening the Strait of Hormuz until the US naval blockade is lifted.

Donald Trump calls the Strait of Hormuz “new US territory” as Iran mocks the claim and vows to keep the strategic waterway closed until US demands are met.

Trump declares Strait of Hormuz ‘new US territory’; Iran mocks ‘delusion’, vows to keep waterway closed

President Donald Trump’s approval rating has fallen to the lowest point of his current presidency, while a large majority of Americans believe the US war with Iran could continue for an extended period, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll completed on Monday. The poll found that only 33% of respondents approved of Trump’s performance as president, while 64% disapproved. His approval rating dropped from 35% in an earlier poll conducted this month and is now tied with the lowest level recorded during his first term, reached in December 2017.&nbsp;Trump returned to the White House in 2025 with approval from just under half of Americans. His standing has weakened this year following his decision to launch strikes against Iran alongside Israel. The conflict has disrupted roughly one-fifth of global oil trade, sending gasoline prices higher and increasing pressure on US households. The economic impact could also create political problems for Trump and Republican candidates seeking to protect their congressional majorities in the November midterm elections.&nbsp;Trump had campaigned on controlling inflation and avoiding prolonged military conflicts. He initially suggested that the confrontation with Iran could be resolved within a few weeks. However, Iran has continued to resist, while disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz have kept much of the global oil trade under pressure despite signs that the fighting has cooled. According to the latest Reuters/Ipsos survey, 80% of Americans, including 87% of Democrats and 71% of Republicans, believe US involvement in Iran will go on for an extended period of time. Only 16% expect the conflict to end within a few weeks.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-s-prominent-anti-war-politician-jailed-for-11-years-who-is-lev-shlosberg-what-was-his-crime-1787046020896">Russia’s prominent anti-war politician jailed for 11 years: Who is Lev Shlosberg? What was his crime?</a>&nbsp;Speaking at a political rally in Garden City, New York, on Friday, Trump defended the costs associated with the conflict, saying that paying a tiny little bit more for your gasoline was worthwhile to prevent a very evil country from obtaining a nuclear weapon. Preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon has been one of the reasons Trump has cited for the military action. Throughout the conflict, Trump has repeatedly shifted between warnings of further escalation and statements suggesting that a peace agreement could be close. Yet the latest poll indicates that public support for the war remains limited.&nbsp;Only about one in five Americans believe the war has been worth the cost, while just half of Republicans share that view, according to Reuters/Ipsos. The conflict and rising gasoline prices are increasingly worrying Republicans as they prepare for the November 3 elections. The party faces a difficult task in defending its narrow House majority, while Democrats are becoming more optimistic about their chances of making gains in both chambers of Congress.&nbsp;Economic concerns are particularly significant. Reuters/Ipsos polling this month found that voters now favour Democrats over Republicans on economic management for the first time in roughly a decade. In the latest survey, 38% of voters said Democrats would do a better job handling the economy, compared with 35% who preferred the Republican approach. Democrats also received an advantage when voters were asked which party was better equipped to address the rising cost of living.&nbsp;Immigration remains an area where Republicans maintain an advantage, although that lead has narrowed substantially during Trump’s current term. About 40% of registered voters said Republicans have the better approach to immigration policy, compared with 38% who favored Democrats. The two-point Republican advantage is the smallest recorded during Trump’s current presidency. Republicans held a 26-point lead on the issue in January 2025.&nbsp;The Reuters/Ipsos poll was conducted online among 1,166 US adults nationwide. The survey has a margin of error of approximately three percentage points in either direction.

Trump's approval rating falls to 33% as Americans worry the Iran war could drag on, fuel prices rise and Republicans face midterm election risks

President Donald Trump’s approval rating has fallen to the lowest point of his current presidency, while a large majority of Americans believe the US war with Iran could continue for an extended period, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll completed on Monday. The poll found that only 33% of respondents approved of Trump’s performance as president, while 64% disapproved. His approval rating dropped from 35% in an earlier poll conducted this month and is now tied with the lowest level recorded during his first term, reached in December 2017. Trump returned to the White House in 2025 with approval from just under half of Americans. His standing has weakened this year following his decision to launch strikes against Iran alongside Israel. The conflict has disrupted roughly one-fifth of global oil trade, sending gasoline prices higher and increasing pressure on US households. The economic impact could also create political problems for Trump and Republican candidates seeking to protect their congressional majorities in the November midterm elections. Trump had campaigned on controlling inflation and avoiding prolonged military conflicts. He initially suggested that the confrontation with Iran could be resolved within a few weeks. However, Iran has continued to resist, while disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz have kept much of the global oil trade under pressure despite signs that the fighting has cooled. According to the latest Reuters/Ipsos survey, 80% of Americans, including 87% of Democrats and 71% of Republicans, believe US involvement in Iran will go on for an extended period of time. Only 16% expect the conflict to end within a few weeks. Also Read: Russia’s prominent anti-war politician jailed for 11 years: Who is Lev Shlosberg? What was his crime? Speaking at a political rally in Garden City, New York, on Friday, Trump defended the costs associated with the conflict, saying that paying a tiny little bit more for your gasoline was worthwhile to prevent a very evil country from obtaining a nuclear weapon. Preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon has been one of the reasons Trump has cited for the military action. Throughout the conflict, Trump has repeatedly shifted between warnings of further escalation and statements suggesting that a peace agreement could be close. Yet the latest poll indicates that public support for the war remains limited. Only about one in five Americans believe the war has been worth the cost, while just half of Republicans share that view, according to Reuters/Ipsos. The conflict and rising gasoline prices are increasingly worrying Republicans as they prepare for the November 3 elections. The party faces a difficult task in defending its narrow House majority, while Democrats are becoming more optimistic about their chances of making gains in both chambers of Congress. Economic concerns are particularly significant. Reuters/Ipsos polling this month found that voters now favour Democrats over Republicans on economic management for the first time in roughly a decade. In the latest survey, 38% of voters said Democrats would do a better job handling the economy, compared with 35% who preferred the Republican approach. Democrats also received an advantage when voters were asked which party was better equipped to address the rising cost of living. Immigration remains an area where Republicans maintain an advantage, although that lead has narrowed substantially during Trump’s current term. About 40% of registered voters said Republicans have the better approach to immigration policy, compared with 38% who favored Democrats. The two-point Republican advantage is the smallest recorded during Trump’s current presidency. Republicans held a 26-point lead on the issue in January 2025. The Reuters/Ipsos poll was conducted online among 1,166 US adults nationwide. The survey has a margin of error of approximately three percentage points in either direction.

Trump's approval rating falls to 33% as 80% of Americans fear the Iran war will last longer, raising economic and political concerns

Trump's approval rating drops to 33%, lowest of his presidency amid growing war concerns: Poll

After US President Donald Trump on Monday (Aug 17) took aim at another female journalist, the White House also sharply criticised CNN reporter Kristen Holmes for asking the POTUS about his relationship with aide Natalie Harp. Holmes had asked the US President to comment on a widely shared remark by Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff in a speech on Sunday.The Democrat had told a crowd that the POTUS "doesn't want to do the job" and instead "wants to build his ballroom and travel with Natalie on their apparently defenseless flying palace gifted by the emir of Qatar".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-natalie-harp-trump-s-human-printer-is-making-headlines-again-here-s-why-1787024735322">Who is Natalie Harp? Trump’s ‘human printer’ is making headlines again</a><h2>Trump's fresh rant against female journalist</h2>The confrontation took place during an Oval Office event on Monday that was meant to honour a teenage lifeguard who rescued a child from powerful waves. Trump, however, opened the floor to questions on a range of other issues.Holmes asked the president about comments made by Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff, who had criticised Trump over his relationship with Harp and accused him of being more interested in "build[ing] his ballroom and travel[ling] with Natalie" than carrying out his duties.Trump also lashed out at Holmes when she attempted to ask him another question about North Korea."You're a loud, boisterous person, you're fake news, be quiet," Trump told the reporter before calling her "very disrespectful".

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Trump: Quiet, quiet, quiet. You are very disrespectful. Quiet. Who are you with? Reporter: I am with CNN. Trump: You are fake news. Be quiet, be quiet, be quiet. You are a fake reporter. <a href="https://t.co/r9sAi7NY7B">pic.twitter.com/r9sAi7NY7B</a>&mdash; Clash Report (@clashreport) <a href="https://x.com/clashreport/status/2089414218441252899?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The White House's Rapid Response account then targeted Holmes on X, writing: "Someday, your children will come across your disgusting and inhumane question." It then separately accused Holmes of using an event honouring a young hero to make what it called a "cheap shot" at one of Trump's staffers. "These scumbags are the lowest of the low," the account said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://x.com/KristenhCNN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KristenhCNN</a>: Someday, your children will come across your disgusting and inhumane question. They will be sickened and embarrassed to have a parent be so callous and vindictive. It’s quite troubling. <a href="https://t.co/EWgPy7mXQP">https://t.co/EWgPy7mXQP</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://x.com/RapidResponse47/status/2089422283039203736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-s-last-election-had-trump-invokes-india-while-pushing-us-voter-id-bill-1787014115814">'India’s last Election had...': Trump invokes India in push for US voter ID bill</a><h2>CNN defends reporter</h2>CNN strongly defended Holmes and condemned the White House's response."We stand firmly behind Kristen and reject these attacks in the strongest possible terms," the network said, describing the attacks as "beneath the office".<h2>Who is Natalie Harp?</h2>Harp, 35, is a former television news personality who serves as one of Trump's aides and is frequently seen alongside the president. She has earned the nickname "human printer" because she is known for providing Trump with printed information during his workday.She also became the subject of renewed public attention after reports that she was among the small group of aides with Trump during the covert aircraft switch in Turkey in July, when the president was moved from the plane carrying the press corps to another military aircraft amid an alleged security threat.Recent comments by Ossoff brought Harp back into the political spotlight. Trump responded by attacking the senator, calling him a "Pee-wee Herman lookalike", while defending his controversial plans for a new White House ballroom.The latest confrontation adds to a growing pattern of tense exchanges between the Trump administration and female journalists, with the White House and news organisations increasingly clashing over the tone and substance of questions directed at the president.

A question about Trump's aide Natalie Harp sparked a heated Oval Office confrontation with CNN's Kristen Holmes. Trump attacked the reporter on camera, and the White House later escalated the clash with a sharply worded social media post.

After US President Donald Trump on Monday (Aug 17) took aim at another female journalist, the White House also sharply criticised CNN reporter Kristen Holmes for asking the POTUS about his relationship with aide Natalie Harp. Holmes had asked the US President to comment on a widely shared remark by Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff in a speech on Sunday. The Democrat had told a crowd that the POTUS "doesn't want to do the job" and instead "wants to build his ballroom and travel with Natalie on their apparently defenseless flying palace gifted by the emir of Qatar". Also read | Who is Natalie Harp? Trump’s ‘human printer’ is making headlines again Trump's fresh rant against female journalist The confrontation took place during an Oval Office event on Monday that was meant to honour a teenage lifeguard who rescued a child from powerful waves. Trump, however, opened the floor to questions on a range of other issues. Holmes asked the president about comments made by Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff, who had criticised Trump over his relationship with Harp and accused him of being more interested in "build[ing] his ballroom and travel[ling] with Natalie" than carrying out his duties. Trump also lashed out at Holmes when she attempted to ask him another question about North Korea. "You're a loud, boisterous person, you're fake news, be quiet," Trump told the reporter before calling her "very disrespectful".

A question about Trump's aide Natalie Harp sparked a heated Oval Office confrontation with CNN's Kristen Holmes. Trump attacked the reporter on camera, and the White House later escalated the clash with a sharply worded social media post.

'Someday, your children will...': White House attacks CNN reporter after question about Trump aide Natalie Harp

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