Anthony Fauci, the public face of America's Covid-19 pandemic response, kept a diary in which he once described US President Donald Trump as "the smartest person in the world" and "really a famous guy", before his views soured. More than 1,141 pages of material spanning December 2019 to December 2022 have been publicly released. Described in the US media as Fauci's "meticulous notes", these were obtained through congressional oversight, document requests and subpoenas rather than voluntary release by Fauci. The former Chief Medical Advisor to the US President is due to testify before a key congressional committee on Wednesday (Jul 29). What else do the publicly released excerpts reveal? Fair warning: strong language ahead.<h2>What Fauci thought of Trump: From adoration to contempt</h2>The early years of their interaction during Trump's first term, which ended as Covid became a global pandemic, appeared cordial. But in an entry dated 27 February 2020, Fauci recounted urging Trump not to underplay the virus's seriousness, warning it could damage his re-election prospects if the outbreak worsened.Fauci later described Trump as "rambling", "getting out of control", and called some of his press briefings "a total s**t show".Among his strongest comments, Fauci described Trump as "desperate" about re-election, "a true embarrassment", "spewing nonsense" and "incorrigible". In a March 2021 entry, he also compared Trump's post-election conduct to that of Hitler, calling him "truly an obnoxious adolescent".<h2>Fauci noted down his tensions with White House staff</h2>The diaries also recorded his frustrations with then White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, who Fauci alleged had threatened to limit his television appearances, shouted at him and pushed for softer public messaging.Fauci also called Michael Caputo, the then US Department of Health and Human Services spokesman, "a con man who is completely full of sh**."<h2>Fauci on Covid origins and the lab-leak theory: Did he favour the Covid natural-origin hypothesis?</h2>One of the biggest controversies surrounding the pandemic has been ‘the lab-leak theory’, which argued that the Covid virus may have escaped from a laboratory in Wuhan, China. Fauci later faced criticism over NIH-funded research involving EcoHealth Alliance and its links to research conducted with the Wuhan Institute of Virology.But in his diary entries, Fauci appeared to oppose the Lab theory. In a diary entry dated 26 January 2020, Fauci wrote: "The first infection was in early December and was not connected to the [Wuhan] market... Now we know the market was not the source, it was the amplifier." He added that "somewhere the virus jumped from animals to humans."A 1 February 2020 entry describing a conference call with outside scientists recorded that only two participants favoured a natural origin, while most others felt "deliberate insertion was possible".The entries show Fauci documenting private scientific discussions about possible origins while publicly maintaining that more evidence and investigation were needed.&nbsp;In later entries, he dismissed some congressional allegations as "conspiracy theory-like" and "a waste of our time".Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lies-disinformation-censorship-gabbard-releases-never-before-seen-docs-to-prove-he-helped-bury-covid-lab-leak-evidence-china-wuhan-lab-1781858814910">'Lies. Disinformation. Censorship': Gabbard releases 'never-before-seen' docs to prove Fauci helped bury COVID files</a><h2>Fauci noted his growing public profile. Was it all about him?</h2>Fauci's multiple diary entries reflected on the intense media attention that he was getting at the time. A 21 March 2020 entry said: "Big front page article about me appeared in The Washington Post. Very flattering. The situation with my national and international fame is explosive and really unimaginable.""It is not hyperbole to say that today I am the most famous and talked about person in the country and one of the most recognisable people in the world," he wrote.Other entries include comments such as "Press is going wild with me", while referring to interactions with celebrities including Barbra Streisand, Julia Roberts, Steph Curry and Larry Ellison. He also noted merchandise such as "Fauci socks", "Fauci doughnuts", Fauci fan art and prayer candles.<h2>Fauci had influence on Covid restrictions in the US</h2>The diary entries suggest Fauci played an influential advisory role as governments considered restrictions during the pandemic. On 15 March 2020, he wrote: "I spoke with Bill de Blasio [the then New York Cit... and convinced him... to close the NYC schools... I went on to tell him he should close the bars and restaurants in NYC."Another entry has drawn attention because it records Fauci discussing with former CDC Director Tom Frieden an estimated Covid case fatality rate of "more like 0.2-0.3% rather than 2.0%". As scientific understanding evolved, Fauci later gave Congress higher estimates based on the information available at the time.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tulsi-gabbard-s-major-allegations-against-fauci-1781897232724/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/tulsi-gabbard-s-major-allegations-against-fauci-1781897232724/embed</a><h2>How were the Fauci diary entries accessed, and what happens next?</h2>The diary entries and private notes were released recently by Republican Senator Rand Paul, chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, as part of the committee's investigation into Covid origins and gain-of-function research.The release comes ahead of Fauci's testimony before the committee. Paul has argued the entries show differences between Fauci's private discussions and some of his public statements on issues including Covid origins and pandemic restrictions.<h2>Is Fauci's privacy violated by the release of the diary entries?</h2>Notes created during official duties by a senior federal official may be subject to the Federal Records Act and congressional oversight. The material was obtained through legal processes rather than Fauci's consent, raising broader questions about the balance between officials' expectations of privacy for work-related records and public accountability.<h2>Political controversy erupts over Fauci diary entries</h2>Republicans have cited the diary entries to question Fauci's credibility and highlight what they describe as inconsistencies between his private notes and public statements.Supporters of Fauci have argued that the excerpts have been released selectively and should be viewed in the broader context of rapidly evolving scientific evidence during the pandemic.Fauci continues to face political scrutiny. He also received a pre-emptive federal pardon from former President Joe Biden covering potential federal offences related to his official pandemic work, although it does not prevent congressional oversight or testimony.

More than 1,141 pages of Anthony Fauci's pandemic-era diaries have been accessed by a key Congressional panel. Exceprts reveal his private views on Donald Trump, Covid origins, White House tensions. Fauci faces a Senate testimony. What do his alleged diary entries tell?



Anthony Fauci, the public face of America's Covid-19 pandemic response, kept a diary in which he once described US President Donald Trump as "the smartest person in the world" and "really a famous guy", before his views soured. More than 1,141 pages of material spanning December 2019 to December 2022 have been publicly released. Described in the US media as Fauci's "meticulous notes", these were obtained through congressional oversight, document requests and subpoenas rather than voluntary release by Fauci. The former Chief Medical Advisor to the US President is due to testify before a key congressional committee on Wednesday (Jul 29). What else do the publicly released excerpts reveal? Fair warning: strong language ahead. What Fauci thought of Trump: From adoration to contempt The early years of their interaction during Trump's first term, which ended as Covid became a global pandemic, appeared cordial. But in an entry dated 27 February 2020, Fauci recounted urging Trump not to underplay the virus's seriousness, warning it could damage his re-election prospects if the outbreak worsened. Fauci later described Trump as "rambling", "getting out of control", and called some of his press briefings "a total s**t show". Among his strongest comments, Fauci described Trump as "desperate" about re-election, "a true embarrassment", "spewing nonsense" and "incorrigible". In a March 2021 entry, he also compared Trump's post-election conduct to that of Hitler, calling him "truly an obnoxious adolescent". Fauci noted down his tensions with White House staff The diaries also recorded his frustrations with then White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, who Fauci alleged had threatened to limit his television appearances, shouted at him and pushed for softer public messaging. Fauci also called Michael Caputo, the then US Department of Health and Human Services spokesman, "a con man who is completely full of sh**." Fauci on Covid origins and the lab-leak theory: Did he favour the Covid natural-origin hypothesis? One of the biggest controversies surrounding the pandemic has been ‘the lab-leak theory’, which argued that the Covid virus may have escaped from a laboratory in Wuhan, China. Fauci later faced criticism over NIH-funded research involving EcoHealth Alliance and its links to research conducted with the Wuhan Institute of Virology. But in his diary entries, Fauci appeared to oppose the Lab theory. In a diary entry dated 26 January 2020, Fauci wrote: "The first infection was in early December and was not connected to the [Wuhan] market... Now we know the market was not the source, it was the amplifier." He added that "somewhere the virus jumped from animals to humans." A 1 February 2020 entry describing a conference call with outside scientists recorded that only two participants favoured a natural origin, while most others felt "deliberate insertion was possible". The entries show Fauci documenting private scientific discussions about possible origins while publicly maintaining that more evidence and investigation were needed. In later entries, he dismissed some congressional allegations as "conspiracy theory-like" and "a waste of our time". Also read: 'Lies. Disinformation. Censorship': Gabbard releases 'never-before-seen' docs to prove Fauci helped bury COVID files Fauci noted his growing public profile. Was it all about him? Fauci's multiple diary entries reflected on the intense media attention that he was getting at the time. A 21 March 2020 entry said: "Big front page article about me appeared in The Washington Post. Very flattering. The situation with my national and international fame is explosive and really unimaginable." "It is not hyperbole to say that today I am the most famous and talked about person in the country and one of the most recognisable people in the world," he wrote. Other entries include comments such as "Press is going wild with me", while referring to interactions with celebrities including Barbra Streisand, Julia Roberts, Steph Curry and Larry Ellison. He also noted merchandise such as "Fauci socks", "Fauci doughnuts", Fauci fan art and prayer candles. Fauci had influence on Covid restrictions in the US The diary entries suggest Fauci played an influential advisory role as governments considered restrictions during the pandemic. On 15 March 2020, he wrote: "I spoke with Bill de Blasio [the then New York Cit... and convinced him... to close the NYC schools... I went on to tell him he should close the bars and restaurants in NYC." Another entry has drawn attention because it records Fauci discussing with former CDC Director Tom Frieden an estimated Covid case fatality rate of "more like 0.2-0.3% rather than 2.0%". As scientific understanding evolved, Fauci later gave Congress higher estimates based on the information available at the time. https://www.wionews.com/videos/tulsi-gabbard-s-major-allegations-against-fauci-1781897232724/embed How were the Fauci diary entries accessed, and what happens next? The diary entries and private notes were released recently by Republican Senator Rand Paul, chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, as part of the committee's investigation into Covid origins and gain-of-function research. The release comes ahead of Fauci's testimony before the committee. Paul has argued the entries show differences between Fauci's private discussions and some of his public statements on issues including Covid origins and pandemic restrictions. Is Fauci's privacy violated by the release of the diary entries? Notes created during official duties by a senior federal official may be subject to the Federal Records Act and congressional oversight. The material was obtained through legal processes rather than Fauci's consent, raising broader questions about the balance between officials' expectations of privacy for work-related records and public accountability. Political controversy erupts over Fauci diary entries Republicans have cited the diary entries to question Fauci's credibility and highlight what they describe as inconsistencies between his private notes and public statements. Supporters of Fauci have argued that the excerpts have been released selectively and should be viewed in the broader context of rapidly evolving scientific evidence during the pandemic. Fauci continues to face political scrutiny. He also received a pre-emptive federal pardon from former President Joe Biden covering potential federal offences related to his official pandemic work, although it does not prevent congressional oversight or testimony.

More than 1,141 pages of Anthony Fauci's pandemic-era diaries have been accessed by a key Congressional panel. Exceprts reveal his private views on Donald Trump, Covid origins, White House tensions. Fauci faces a Senate testimony. What do his alleged diary entries tell?&nbsp;

'Total s**t show': Fauci diaries reveal what Covid tsar thought about Trump and his own rising fame. What else is in the notes?

President Donald Trump is pausing military strikes against Iran to give diplomacy another chance, noting that "very deep talks" are underway. However, he warned that strong military action will resume if negotiations fail.


US-Iran ceasefire: Fire on hold for third consecutive day

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jul 27) dismissed suggestions that Russia has played a significant role in supporting Iran during its conflict with the United States, saying any assistance Moscow may have provided has been "very unimpactful."&nbsp;Trump's remarks came after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of supplying satellite intelligence to Iran to help it target US military bases and Gulf state infrastructure. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said he would seek clarification directly from Russian President Vladimir Putin."We'll find out if that's true. I'll ask Putin about it. We'll find out," Trump said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-sacks-ukraine-army-chief-oleksandr-syrskyi-offers-new-role-to-sacked-defence-minister-in-major-military-shake-up-1784685434535">Zelensky sacks Ukraine army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, offers new role to sacked defence minister in major military shake-up</a><h2>'We've knocked the hell out of Iran'</h2>The US president argued that any Russian support had failed to alter the course of the conflict, asserting that American military operations had severely weakened Iran."It hasn't had much impact because we've knocked the hell out of it (Iran)," Trump said."They may be providing support, but if they are, it hasn't worked out because they (Iran) have no army, they have no air force, they have no navy, they have nothing," he added.Trump also cited Venezuela as an example to argue that Russian military equipment had not proven particularly effective. "They (Russia) gave Venezuela a lot of equipment. Venezuela had all Russian equipment. How did that work? Not too good," he said.While expressing scepticism over Zelensky's claims, Trump added that even if Moscow had provided assistance, it had made little difference. "I don't think they've been doing it, certainly not at a high level. And if they have, it has been very unimpactful," he said.<h2>Zelensky alleges Russian satellite support</h2>Trump's comments came after Zelensky made one of his strongest accusations yet against Moscow, claiming Ukrainian intelligence had tracked Russian satellite surveillance of US military installations and Gulf state infrastructure before Iranian strikes.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-avoids-higher-us-tariff-secures-lower-10-rate-here-s-how-1784854529326">India avoids higher US tariff, secures lower 10% rate. Here's how</a>In a post on X, the Ukrainian president said he would share the intelligence with Kyiv's international partners. "I will instruct our intelligence to share with our partners the information we have regarding Russia's new assistance to the Iranian regime," Zelensky wrote.He alleged that since the beginning of July, Ukrainian intelligence had observed active Russian satellite monitoring of Gulf states and US military facilities, with the imagery later appearing in Iran.<h2>Claims of surveillance before strikes</h2>According to Zelensky, there was a "clear correlation" between Russian satellite imagery and subsequent Iranian attacks. "There is a clear correlation between Russia's satellite imagery of these sites and Iranian strikes - both before the attacks, in preparation for them, and afterward (s), to assess the damage inflicted," he said.The Ukrainian leader further claimed that on July 19 and 20, Russian satellites focused on four regional air bases — two in Bahrain, one in Jordan and one in Kuwait — before the alleged intelligence was passed on to Tehran.

US President Donald Trump says any Russian assistance has been "very unimpactful" as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accuses Moscow of providing satellite intelligence to Tehran. All you need to know.

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jul 27) dismissed suggestions that Russia has played a significant role in supporting Iran during its conflict with the United States, saying any assistance Moscow may have provided has been "very unimpactful." Trump's remarks came after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of supplying satellite intelligence to Iran to help it target US military bases and Gulf state infrastructure. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said he would seek clarification directly from Russian President Vladimir Putin. "We'll find out if that's true. I'll ask Putin about it. We'll find out," Trump said. Also read | Zelensky sacks Ukraine army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, offers new role to sacked defence minister in major military shake-up 'We've knocked the hell out of Iran' The US president argued that any Russian support had failed to alter the course of the conflict, asserting that American military operations had severely weakened Iran. "It hasn't had much impact because we've knocked the hell out of it (Iran)," Trump said. "They may be providing support, but if they are, it hasn't worked out because they (Iran) have no army, they have no air force, they have no navy, they have nothing," he added. Trump also cited Venezuela as an example to argue that Russian military equipment had not proven particularly effective. "They (Russia) gave Venezuela a lot of equipment. Venezuela had all Russian equipment. How did that work? Not too good," he said. While expressing scepticism over Zelensky's claims, Trump added that even if Moscow had provided assistance, it had made little difference. "I don't think they've been doing it, certainly not at a high level. And if they have, it has been very unimpactful," he said. Zelensky alleges Russian satellite support Trump's comments came after Zelensky made one of his strongest accusations yet against Moscow, claiming Ukrainian intelligence had tracked Russian satellite surveillance of US military installations and Gulf state infrastructure before Iranian strikes. Also read | India avoids higher US tariff, secures lower 10% rate. Here's how In a post on X, the Ukrainian president said he would share the intelligence with Kyiv's international partners. "I will instruct our intelligence to share with our partners the information we have regarding Russia's new assistance to the Iranian regime," Zelensky wrote. He alleged that since the beginning of July, Ukrainian intelligence had observed active Russian satellite monitoring of Gulf states and US military facilities, with the imagery later appearing in Iran. Claims of surveillance before strikes According to Zelensky, there was a "clear correlation" between Russian satellite imagery and subsequent Iranian attacks. "There is a clear correlation between Russia's satellite imagery of these sites and Iranian strikes - both before the attacks, in preparation for them, and afterward (s), to assess the damage inflicted," he said. The Ukrainian leader further claimed that on July 19 and 20, Russian satellites focused on four regional air bases — two in Bahrain, one in Jordan and one in Kuwait — before the alleged intelligence was passed on to Tehran.

US President Donald Trump says any Russian assistance has been "very unimpactful" as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accuses Moscow of providing satellite intelligence to Tehran. All you need to know.

'Very unimpactful': Trump downplays Russian support for Iran, promises to 'ask Putin' about Zelensky's claims

Donald Trump launched another salvo at green energy by talking about a "massive television outage" that never happened. Speaking at the Environmental Protection Agency in Washington, the American president reminisced about the non-existent event, which he blamed on wind energy. He asked the audience if they remembered the "massive television outage two years ago." He made up a story about how, in places where wind power is used, people can't switch on their TVs when the wind isn’t blowing.&nbsp;In his speech, he slammed "the Green New Scam, where we were scammed.” He then added, "The whole country was – I wasn’t scammed. I got it right from the beginning; I got it from the first minute when I heard this crap. You know?" Trump next made a bizarre claim, linking it to a TV outage. "They were saying wind was so wonderful, so wonderful, except you couldn’t watch your television. They wanted to watch the debate, Donald Trump against Sleepy Joe Biden," he said.<h2>Trump said no one could watch the debate on TV in places where wind energy is used&nbsp;</h2>"Nobody could watch it because the wind wasn’t blowing. Remember that? ‘Darling, we’d like to watch the debate tonight.’ ‘I’m sorry, the wind isn’t blowing,’” Trump added in his typical assertive style, forcefully talking about an incident that wasn't true. Notably, more than 51 million people watched the debate on television, including viewers from Republican-dominated Texas, the state that produces the most wind-powered electricity.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-says-iranian-school-minab-bombing-photos-could-be-ai-generated-1784865027076">Trump says Iranian school bombing photos could be AI-generated - 'I don’t think...'</a>&nbsp;Biden had targeted 100 per cent "clean electricity" in the country by 2035. However, he never signed the Green New Deal, which would have put the US on a 10-year path to meet all of its power demand through “clean, renewable, and zero-emission energy.”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-would-be-very-bad-for-them-trump-warns-china-and-russia-against-selling-weapons-to-iran-1784909357790">'It would be very bad for them': Trump warns China, Russia against selling weapons to Iran</a>&nbsp;Other false assertions Trump made at the event included the statement that California has "brownouts and blackouts every weekend." A spokesperson for Governor Gavin Newsom told CNN that “there hasn’t been a rolling blackout in nearly six years in California”. Another claim made by him was of getting “no credit” for “$19.2 trillion” investment in just his first 12 months back in office. However, there is no official data to back this claim. &nbsp;

Donald Trump falsely claimed that regions in the US powered by wind energy could not turn on their televisions to watch his debate with Joe Biden. He also said that California witnessed “brownouts and blackouts” every weekend.

Donald Trump launched another salvo at green energy by talking about a "massive television outage" that never happened. Speaking at the Environmental Protection Agency in Washington, the American president reminisced about the non-existent event, which he blamed on wind energy. He asked the audience if they remembered the "massive television outage two years ago." He made up a story about how, in places where wind power is used, people can't switch on their TVs when the wind isn’t blowing. In his speech, he slammed "the Green New Scam, where we were scammed.” He then added, "The whole country was – I wasn’t scammed. I got it right from the beginning; I got it from the first minute when I heard this crap. You know?" Trump next made a bizarre claim, linking it to a TV outage. "They were saying wind was so wonderful, so wonderful, except you couldn’t watch your television. They wanted to watch the debate, Donald Trump against Sleepy Joe Biden," he said. Trump said no one could watch the debate on TV in places where wind energy is used "Nobody could watch it because the wind wasn’t blowing. Remember that? ‘Darling, we’d like to watch the debate tonight.’ ‘I’m sorry, the wind isn’t blowing,’” Trump added in his typical assertive style, forcefully talking about an incident that wasn't true. Notably, more than 51 million people watched the debate on television, including viewers from Republican-dominated Texas, the state that produces the most wind-powered electricity. Also Read: Trump says Iranian school bombing photos could be AI-generated - 'I don’t think...' Biden had targeted 100 per cent "clean electricity" in the country by 2035. However, he never signed the Green New Deal, which would have put the US on a 10-year path to meet all of its power demand through “clean, renewable, and zero-emission energy.” Also Read: 'It would be very bad for them': Trump warns China, Russia against selling weapons to Iran Other false assertions Trump made at the event included the statement that California has "brownouts and blackouts every weekend." A spokesperson for Governor Gavin Newsom told CNN that “there hasn’t been a rolling blackout in nearly six years in California”. Another claim made by him was of getting “no credit” for “$19.2 trillion” investment in just his first 12 months back in office. However, there is no official data to back this claim.

Donald Trump falsely claimed that regions in the US powered by wind energy could not turn on their televisions to watch his debate with Joe Biden. He also said that California witnessed “brownouts and blackouts” every weekend.

Trump's latest rant is about a 'massive television outage' that never happened

US people are neither considering the prediction of President Donald Trump about the Iran war that is about to end, nor do they believe that Iran has lost the will or the means to keep fighting. UN Ambassador Mike Waltz speculated that he would not commit to the war ending before the end of 2026. "I'm not going to put some kind of timeline on it,” said Waltz. Waltz's statement followed after Trump denied the idea of further negotiations with Iran, allowing the war to resume at full strength after a 60-day extension of the ceasefire between both the nations dissolved earlier this month. In addition, a tanker struck a mine in the Strait of Hormuz and exploded this weekend because the biggest trade route has become increasingly unsafe for global shipping traffic.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/video-grain-vessel-struck-by-russian-cruise-missiles-sinks-7-days-after-the-attack-that-killed-10-1785125364075">Video: Grain vessel struck by Russian cruise missiles sinks 7 days after the attack that killed 10</a><h3>War Powers resolutions</h3>These developments point to mounting uncertainty inside the administration itself, with very few officials willing to accept the fact that the war is conclusively over, even as criticism mounts from Congress. While senators have so far blocked War Powers resolutions aiming to curb the president’s power, the Senate GOP caucus is growing opposed to the war and several senators have publicly stated about their beliefs that the war was misguided from the beginning. Separately, a new poll released Sunday showed that public trust in the Trump administration's assessments of Iran has eroded significantly. According to CBS News polling, only a small fraction of Americans still believe the White House's claim that the war will conclude within days or weeks. The majority instead expect the conflict to drag on for months, or possibly years, as it nears its five-month mark with senior officials seemingly unable to advance negotiations that have effectively stalled following renewed fighting. Meanwhile, this week, the president attended a dignified transfer ceremony for four American service members killed in an Iranian strike earlier this month, later asserting without evidence that the fallen troops had "said very strongly" that Iran must be prevented from acquiring nuclear weapons.

The majority instead expect the conflict to drag on for months, or possibly years, as it nears its five-month mark with senior officials seemingly unable to advance negotiations that have effectively stalled following renewed fighting.

US people are neither considering the prediction of President Donald Trump about the Iran war that is about to end, nor do they believe that Iran has lost the will or the means to keep fighting. UN Ambassador Mike Waltz speculated that he would not commit to the war ending before the end of 2026. "I'm not going to put some kind of timeline on it,” said Waltz. Waltz's statement followed after Trump denied the idea of further negotiations with Iran, allowing the war to resume at full strength after a 60-day extension of the ceasefire between both the nations dissolved earlier this month. In addition, a tanker struck a mine in the Strait of Hormuz and exploded this weekend because the biggest trade route has become increasingly unsafe for global shipping traffic. Also read: Video: Grain vessel struck by Russian cruise missiles sinks 7 days after the attack that killed 10 War Powers resolutions These developments point to mounting uncertainty inside the administration itself, with very few officials willing to accept the fact that the war is conclusively over, even as criticism mounts from Congress. While senators have so far blocked War Powers resolutions aiming to curb the president’s power, the Senate GOP caucus is growing opposed to the war and several senators have publicly stated about their beliefs that the war was misguided from the beginning. Separately, a new poll released Sunday showed that public trust in the Trump administration's assessments of Iran has eroded significantly. According to CBS News polling, only a small fraction of Americans still believe the White House's claim that the war will conclude within days or weeks. The majority instead expect the conflict to drag on for months, or possibly years, as it nears its five-month mark with senior officials seemingly unable to advance negotiations that have effectively stalled following renewed fighting. Meanwhile, this week, the president attended a dignified transfer ceremony for four American service members killed in an Iranian strike earlier this month, later asserting without evidence that the fallen troops had "said very strongly" that Iran must be prevented from acquiring nuclear weapons.

The majority instead expect the conflict to drag on for months, or possibly years, as it nears its five-month mark with senior officials seemingly unable to advance negotiations that have effectively stalled following renewed fighting.

Will Iran war last months or even years? Here's what new poll shows about what most Americans think

Israeli ‌Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ​will travel ​to Washington on ⁠Monday and ​will meet ​with U.S. President Donald Trump on ​Tuesday, ​according to a statement ‌from ⁠Netanyahu's office.
Netanyahu will also attend U.S. ​Senator ​Lindsey ⁠Graham's funeral, his ​office said.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu to travel to Washington

Iran has warned that any renewed US military strikes, especially alongside Israel, could trigger a wider regional conflict across West Asia. The warning comes ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Washington, as tensions continue to rise. Meanwhile, Yemen's Houthi rebels launched missile and drone attacks on Saudi Aramco facilities in Jazan and Yanbu, threatening key global energy routes. The conflict has raised concerns over the security of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and global oil supplies, while Iran insists that diplomacy—not military escalation is the only path forward.

Iran Warns of Wider West Asia War | Houthi Strikes Saudi Aramco |US, Israel, Saudi Tensions Escalate

US President Donald Trump and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt attended the rescheduled the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. Trump's remark for Karoline during the event has gone viral on internet, while their intense conversation on stage has been a major topic of discussion for lipreaders.&nbsp;Trump praised Leavitt for her handling of the media during remarks the event. While he acknowledged the challenges of serving as the administration’s chief spokesperson, telling the audience that Leavitt has “one of the hardest jobs in the White House,” he also called her “nasty.” Trump stated, "She can be nasty, but sometimes she has no choice. Karoline may have one of the hardest jobs in the White House, she has to deal with all of you, all of the time, and you can be very difficult!"&nbsp;: Despite using the word "nasty", Trump heavily praised Leavitt throughout his address, emphasizing that she does a "fantastic job" and is widely loved by the administration. He also took a moment to congratulate Leavitt on recently returning to her duties after giving birth to her second child. He also joked that members of the media can be “very, very difficult people,” drawing laughter from those in attendance.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-in-talks-with-iran-no-decision-yet-on-major-strikes-here-s-what-it-means-1784928687382">Trump says US in talks with Iran, no decision yet on major strikes. Here’s what it means</a>&nbsp;Leavitt attended the dinner as Trump’s companion after First Lady Melania Trump skipped the rescheduled event.The White House Correspondents’ Dinner was postponed earlier this year after an attempted attack on Trump. The rescheduled dinner took place on July 24 at the Waldorf Astoria. A White House spokesperson told the Daily Beast that Melania Trump did not attend because of prior commitments

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">President Trump: “[White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt] can be nasty, but sometimes she has no choice… she has to deal with all of you. All of the time, and you can be very difficult… I’m probably being a little oversensitive sometimes. I really do think some of you… <a href="https://t.co/MPxwrO1ctj">pic.twitter.com/MPxwrO1ctj</a>&mdash; RedWave Press (@RedWavePress) <a href="https://x.com/RedWavePress/status/2080834530634584569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 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/we-were-sent-flying-minab-school-teacher-reacts-after-trump-claimed-iranian-school-photos-could-be-ai-generated-1785032184760">'We were sent flying...': Minab school teacher reacts after Trump claimed Iranian school photos could be AI-generated</a><h2>What they reportedly said</h2>Meanwhile, lipreaders attempted to decode Trump's conversation with Karoline. An Irish Star, lipreader Nicola Hickling alleged that Trump began the conversation by saying, “They have eyes around you today.”Leavitt was reportedly heard responding, "That's true," before Trump allegedly asked, "Did you know that?" The lipreader claimed Leavitt replied, “I didn't know that.” The meaning behind the alleged exchange remained unclear, and neither Trump nor Leavitt has publicly confirmed the conversation. Trump was then allegedly seen telling Leavitt, "It's stressful when you can't see it going on; it's like you're on high alert," according to Hickling’s interpretation.

Donald Trump and Karoline Leavitt were seen having an intense conversation at the rescheduled White House Correspondents’ Dinner. A lipreader claimed Trump warned Leavitt that she was being watched, though neither confirmed the alleged exchange. Trump also praised her handling of the media.

US President Donald Trump and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt attended the rescheduled the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. Trump's remark for Karoline during the event has gone viral on internet, while their intense conversation on stage has been a major topic of discussion for lipreaders. Trump praised Leavitt for her handling of the media during remarks the event. While he acknowledged the challenges of serving as the administration’s chief spokesperson, telling the audience that Leavitt has “one of the hardest jobs in the White House,” he also called her “nasty.” Trump stated, "She can be nasty, but sometimes she has no choice. Karoline may have one of the hardest jobs in the White House, she has to deal with all of you, all of the time, and you can be very difficult!" : Despite using the word "nasty", Trump heavily praised Leavitt throughout his address, emphasizing that she does a "fantastic job" and is widely loved by the administration. He also took a moment to congratulate Leavitt on recently returning to her duties after giving birth to her second child. He also joked that members of the media can be “very, very difficult people,” drawing laughter from those in attendance. Also Read: Trump says US in talks with Iran, no decision yet on major strikes. Here’s what it means Leavitt attended the dinner as Trump’s companion after First Lady Melania Trump skipped the rescheduled event. The White House Correspondents’ Dinner was postponed earlier this year after an attempted attack on Trump. The rescheduled dinner took place on July 24 at the Waldorf Astoria. A White House spokesperson told the Daily Beast that Melania Trump did not attend because of prior commitments

Donald Trump and Karoline Leavitt were seen having an intense conversation at the rescheduled White House Correspondents’ Dinner. A lipreader claimed Trump warned Leavitt that she was being watched, though neither confirmed the alleged exchange. Trump also praised her handling of the media.

'She is nasty': Trump says THIS about Karoline Leavitt as she returns to White House press briefings

The Middle East conflict is entering a dangerous new phase as Yemen's Houthi rebels intensify attacks on Saudi-linked shipping in the Red Sea. After announcing a naval blockade targeting Saudi Arabia, the Houthis claim they have struck Saudi oil tankers, raising fears of a wider regional war and renewed disruption to global energy supplies.
The escalation comes as shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains heavily disrupted, placing immense pressure on another vital maritime chokepoint—the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Saudi Arabia, which has relied on Red Sea ports to bypass Hormuz, now faces fresh threats to its oil exports.


Houthis Target Saudi Oil Tankers | Red Sea Blockade Escalates | US Faces New Middle East Crisis

US President Donald Trump has pledged robust security, economic, and political support for Lebanon following a high-level meeting at the White House with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. The discussions centered on securing lasting peace following months of conflict, strengthening the Lebanese Armed Forces, implementing a US-sponsored framework agreement with Israel, and coordinating the phased withdrawal of Israeli forces.


Trump pledges security and economic support for Lebanon

Katy Perry on Saturday publicly slammed the White House for using her popular 2010 song Firework in a TikTok video showing U.S. military strikes on Iran. The pop star took to social media to reveal that she is "deeply appalled and angry," as the song was used without her approval.&nbsp;<h2>What's the viral post</h2>The video, which faced criticism from the singer, was uploaded by the White House on their official TikTok account on Thursday. It featured clips of explosions and military strikes with the caption, "Iran has been warned."&nbsp;Along with the visuals, it also had the lyrics "boom, boom, boom" from Firework.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/katy-perry-apologises-after-last-minute-cancellation-of-belgium-festival-performance-they-gave-me-no-choice-1782709042389">Katy Perry apologises after last-minute cancellation of Belgium festival performance: 'They gave me no choice'</a><h2>Katy Perry's reaction</h2>Perry responded to the video through a post on X. "I am deeply appalled and angry to see “Firework” used on the @WhiteHouse TikTok account as a backing track for video footage of military strikes. I did not approve this, I was not asked, and I absolutely do not condone it," she wrote.&nbsp;She further added, "I wrote this song to be an anthem of hope, healing, and inner strength for people going through their darkest personal moments. To see a message of self-worth and upliftment weaponized to soundtrack destruction and violence is a complete violation of everything my song stands for." &nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/why-did-katy-perry-file-a-lawsuit-against-85-year-old-disabled-veteran-here-s-what-we-know-1764316691550">Why did Katy Perry file a lawsuit against 85-year-old disabled veteran? Here's what we know</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I am deeply appalled and angry to see “Firework” used on the <a href="https://x.com/WhiteHouse?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WhiteHouse</a> TikTok account as a backing track for video footage of military strikes. I did not approve this, I was not asked, and I absolutely do not condone it. I wrote this song to be an anthem of hope, healing, and…&mdash; KATY PERRY (@katyperry) <a href="https://x.com/katyperry/status/2081032309508047136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2026-katy-perry-offers-a-backstage-look-at-her-opening-ceremony-preparations-1781236741134">FIFA World Cup 2026: Katy Perry offers a backstage look at her opening ceremony preparations</a>&nbsp;"My music is for bringing people together, not celebrating warfare," her post read.&nbsp;This comes amid the ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran. The White House has not publicly responded to Perry's post so far.<h2>Other artists to object</h2>Perry is not the first artist to object to the White House's use of copyrighted music in politically related social media content. In June, Ariana Grande criticised the government after her song Bye was featured in a TikTok video showing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers carrying out arrests.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/katy-perry-and-justin-trudeau-can-t-take-their-eyes-off-each-other-at-red-carpet-debut-1780974045441">Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau can't take their eyes off each other at red carpet debut</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Sabrina Carpenter, Olivia Rodrigo, Céline Dion, Neil Young and The Rolling Stones had also objected to their music being used in political campaigns or official videos without their support.

Katy Perry has publicly called out the White House for using her song Firework in a TikTok video showing U.S. military strikes on Iran. The singer responded to the video on her social media. Read on to know more.

Katy Perry on Saturday publicly slammed the White House for using her popular 2010 song Firework in a TikTok video showing U.S. military strikes on Iran. The pop star took to social media to reveal that she is "deeply appalled and angry," as the song was used without her approval. What's the viral post The video, which faced criticism from the singer, was uploaded by the White House on their official TikTok account on Thursday. It featured clips of explosions and military strikes with the caption, "Iran has been warned." Along with the visuals, it also had the lyrics "boom, boom, boom" from Firework. Also Read: Katy Perry apologises after last-minute cancellation of Belgium festival performance: 'They gave me no choice' Katy Perry's reaction Perry responded to the video through a post on X. "I am deeply appalled and angry to see “Firework” used on the @WhiteHouse TikTok account as a backing track for video footage of military strikes. I did not approve this, I was not asked, and I absolutely do not condone it," she wrote. She further added, "I wrote this song to be an anthem of hope, healing, and inner strength for people going through their darkest personal moments. To see a message of self-worth and upliftment weaponized to soundtrack destruction and violence is a complete violation of everything my song stands for." Also Read: Why did Katy Perry file a lawsuit against 85-year-old disabled veteran? Here's what we know

Katy Perry has publicly called out the White House for using her song Firework in a TikTok video showing U.S. military strikes on Iran. The singer responded to the video on her social media. Read on to know more.

Katy Perry criticises White House for using her song in Iran strike video: 'I did not approve this'

US President Donald Trump returned to the White House Correspondents' Dinner, three months after the original event was cancelled following an assassination attempt. Speaking before journalists, lawmakers, and senior officials, Trump reflected on the attack, joked about running for another term, and once again criticized the media and his political opponents.

During his speech, Trump held up a "Trump 2028" cap, joked about seeking a third and even fourth term despite constitutional limits, and mocked what he described as "Trump Derangement Syndrome." The event was held under heightened security with Secret Service, National Guard, and police presence around the venue.

Trump returns to White House Correspondents' Dinner | Jokes about 2028, mocks media & third term

US President Donald Trump has said that Venezuela is not yet ready for elections, while praising the country's recent economic progress, particularly its recovering oil industry. Trump credited Venezuela's acting leadership for improving oil production and claimed the country's economy had significantly recovered. However, he said elections would only take place when conditions are right. His remarks come as Venezuela continues to recover from devastating twin earthquakes that have claimed more than 5,398 lives, with thousands still displaced. At the same time, Caracas has announced its decision to permanently withdraw from the International

Trump on Venezuela Elections | Says country 'not ready yet' | US News 

The United States has imposed a new 10% tariff on imports from India under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, citing concerns over the enforcement of laws against goods produced using forced labor. The tariff is part of a broader trade action targeting multiple economies. While India was initially expected to face a 12.5% tariff, the rate was reduced after New Delhi amended its foreign trade policy to prohibit imports made using forced labor. The US Department of Labor highlighted concerns across several Indian sectors, including textiles, garments, tea, shrimp processing, leather goods, carpets, fireworks, rice mills, and stone quarries. Industry experts warn that the permanent nature of the Section 301 tariffs could affect Indian exports, investments, and ongoing India-US trade negotiations.

US Imposes 10% Tariff on India | Trump Targets Forced Labor, Trade Talks Face New Challenge

Major developments are unfolding across the globe in today's top international headlines.



Delhi Protests | Houthi Missile Attack | Trump-Iran Tensions | France Wildfires | China Landslide 

From India's NEET protest talks to rising tensions in West Asia, today's biggest international developments are making headlines.

In this bulletin:

CJP and the government hold another round of talks over the NEET paper leak protests.
Yemen's Houthi forces claim a missile strike on Saudi Arabia.
Donald Trump says the US will not finalize a Saudi nuclear deal without normalization with Israel.
Trump threatens action after the EU's billion-dollar fine on Google.
French wildfires force mass evacuations.
China reports deaths after a deadly landslide.
Netanyahu orders a new settler outpost in the occupied West Bank.

Watch the full roundup of the biggest global developments shaping world politics, diplomacy, conflict, and international affairs.

NEET Protest | Trump's Saudi Deal | Houthi Attack |Europe Wildfires | China Landslide | Wion News 

President Donald Trump has once again taken over the internet for his unusual remarks, and this time he drew attention for making a joke about rapper Nicki Minaj during the rescheduled White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) Dinner on Friday.&nbsp;The event was held at the Waldorf Astoria in Washington, D.C. on July 24 after the original dinner in April was disrupted when a gunman allegedly attempted to assassinate the president.&nbsp;The gathering brought together around 700 guests, including journalists, administration officials and members of Trump's Cabinet.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/so-hot-and-respected-donald-trump-heaps-praises-on-nicki-minaj-at-recent-event-then-makes-this-gaffe-1783405723831">'So hot and respected': Donald Trump heaps praises on Nicki Minaj at recent event, then makes this gaffe</a><h2>Trump jokes on WHCA dinner</h2>Speaking about the events of the April incident, Trump joked, "But after hearing the gunshots, many people yelled 'Get down, get down,' which caused Nicki Minaj to start twerking. Get down - she's the only one who really understood it."&nbsp;The comment quickly went viral, and it drew mixed reactions on social media.<h2>Internet reacts</h2>Reacting to the comment, one user said, "That was actually funny. But, he's still a fascist PEDOFILE." Another added, "They're laughing at him. That's what so good about this night."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/nicki-minaj-s-controversies-from-marijuana-arrest-to-cardi-b-show-incident-1769764233230">Nicki Minaj's controversies: From marijuana arrest to Cardi B show incident</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">US President Donald Trump cracks a joke about Nicki Minaj twerking He says, &quot;After hearing the gunshots, many people yelled, &#39;Get down! get down!&#39; which caused Nicki Minaj to start twerking, do you believe it?&quot;<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/UnitedStates?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UnitedStates</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Trump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Trump</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/NickiMinaj?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NickiMinaj</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/gunshots?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gunshots</a> <a href="https://t.co/i1qu7mlskG">pic.twitter.com/i1qu7mlskG</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2080834957979857362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/nicky-minaj-throws-shade-at-trevor-noah-post-grammy-joke-roasts-chrissy-teigen-and-more-in-a-series-of-posts-1770018367177">Nicky Minaj throws shade at Trevor Noah post Grammy joke, roasts Chrissy Teigen and more in a series of posts</a>&nbsp;One user wrote, "Racism, misogyny and jokes about shootings all rolled up in one crass comment." Another commented, "A wild way to bring Nicki Minaj into the conversation." One said, "Trump’s timing is undefeated. Whether you laughed or groaned, that joke had the whole room reacting."<h2>Trump addresses the attack</h2>Soon after the joke, Trump shifted to a more serious tone. "Tonight we come back together to answer that heinous attack with unwavering resolve, and every one of us here this evening to show that in America we do not yield to political violence," he said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/nicki-minaj-stands-with-donald-trump-on-nigeria-religious-persecution-1763534712295">Nicki Minaj stands with Donald Trump on Nigeria religious persecution</a>&nbsp;Trump further added, "In this country, we believe in freedom of speech. We settle our differences not with bullets, but with open and vigorous debate, and no deranged loser with a gun will ever change that."&nbsp;The president also paid tribute to Secret Service officer Victor Gonzales, who was injured during the incident.&nbsp;Trump and Minaj have often made headlines together in recent months. The 43-year-old rapper openly backs up the president during his second term. She has also attended several White House events, including the Trump Accounts Summit and a Rose Garden luncheon, where Trump praised her from the stage, calling her "so respected and so hot and so great" and "a fantastic person."&nbsp;&nbsp;

President Donald Trump, during the rescheduled White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) Dinner on Friday, joked about rapper Nicki Minaj twerking. Read on to know more.

President Donald Trump has once again taken over the internet for his unusual remarks, and this time he drew attention for making a joke about rapper Nicki Minaj during the rescheduled White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) Dinner on Friday. The event was held at the Waldorf Astoria in Washington, D.C. on July 24 after the original dinner in April was disrupted when a gunman allegedly attempted to assassinate the president. The gathering brought together around 700 guests, including journalists, administration officials and members of Trump's Cabinet. Also Read: 'So hot and respected': Donald Trump heaps praises on Nicki Minaj at recent event, then makes this gaffe Trump jokes on WHCA dinner Speaking about the events of the April incident, Trump joked, "But after hearing the gunshots, many people yelled 'Get down, get down,' which caused Nicki Minaj to start twerking. Get down - she's the only one who really understood it." The comment quickly went viral, and it drew mixed reactions on social media. Internet reacts Reacting to the comment, one user said, "That was actually funny. But, he's still a fascist PEDOFILE." Another added, "They're laughing at him. That's what so good about this night." Also read: Nicki Minaj's controversies: From marijuana arrest to Cardi B show incident

President Donald Trump, during the rescheduled White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) Dinner on Friday, joked about rapper Nicki Minaj twerking. Read on to know more.&nbsp;

President Donald Trump jokes about Nicki Minaj twerking at WHCA dinner; video goes viral

The Trump administration has acknowledged in court that it cancelled hundreds of federal energy grants because they benefited states won by former Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election, according to a report by The New York Times. The admission came in a court filing submitted this month as part of a lawsuit brought by several grant recipients challenging the cancellation of billions of dollars in Biden-era funding.According to the filing, the US Department of Energy (DOE) accepted that the decision to terminate 284 grants was based solely on whether the projects were located in states that voted for Harris and were represented by two Democratic-caucusing senators.<h2>Court filing details selection criteria</h2>An Energy Department lawyer wrote in a July 15 court filing that, with one exception, all of the terminated grants were linked to Democratic-leaning states."With one exception, the 284 terminated grants had a recipient location and/or at least one place of performance in a state that awarded its electoral votes to Kamala Harris in the 2024 election and has two Democratic-caucusing senators," the filing said.The lawyer further stated that the grants were not cancelled because of program performance, statutory concerns, cost reductions or other operational factors."DOE accepts that the inclusion of grants in the October notice tranche was based solely on the political identity of the grant recipient's state, i.e., whether the recipient's location and/or place of performance was in a Blue State or a non-Blue State," the filing said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trust-trump-he-understands-saudi-psychology-stephen-miller-defends-surprise-israel-condition-in-us-saudi-nuclear-deal-1784941502454">'Trust Trump, he understands Saudi psychology': Stephen Miller defends surprise Israel condition in US-Saudi nuclear deal</a><h2>Nearly all cancelled grants were in Democratic states</h2>According to The New York Times, the Energy Department had initially submitted a list of more than 600 Biden-era grants in both Republican- and Democratic-leaning states for review.However, in October, the White House Office of Management and Budget, led by Director Russ Vought, cancelled 284 grants, 283 of which were located in Democratic-leaning states. The cancelled projects reportedly included electrical grid upgrades and clean hydrogen hub initiatives in California.<h2>Democrats accuse administration of political retaliation</h2>California Governor Gavin Newsom, a frequent critic of President Donald Trump, condemned the revelations in a post on X."The corrupt Trump administration has just admitted to withholding taxpayer dollars from states based on how they voted," Newsom wrote. "Last I checked we were a democracy, not a dictatorship. Where the hell is Congress?"Democratic Senator Patty Murray and Representative Marcy Kaptur also criticised the administration, calling the grant cancellations "outright un-American."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The corrupt Trump administration has just admitted to withholding taxpayer dollars from states based on how they voted. Last I checked we were a democracy, not a dictatorship. Where the hell is Congress?&mdash; Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) <a href="https://x.com/GavinNewsom/status/2080757386667758011?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"This administration has now admitted in court what has long been obvious: It terminated nearly 300 cost-cutting energy projects for no reason other than the fact that the states they were in did not vote for the president in the 2024 election," the lawmakers said in a joint statement.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-iran-has-evil-intentions-vows-it-will-never-get-nuclear-weapons-rubio-warns-iran-will-continue-to-pay-a-very-heavy-price-1784857820016">Trump warns Iran has 'evil intentions', vows it will 'never' get nuclear weapons</a>They also accused Energy Secretary Chris Wright of contradicting his earlier testimony before Congress. At a House hearing in June, Wright had denied politics played any role in the cancellations, dismissing such allegations as "bull----.""Secretary Wright swore up and down for months that these project terminations had absolutely nothing to do with politics, and now his lawyers are declaring that, in fact, politics was the only consideration," Murray and Kaptur said.<h2>Energy Department rejects criticism</h2>Despite the court filing, the Energy Department denied that its legal position contradicted previous public statements."There is no contradiction, and any suggestion of a contradiction is a misrepresentation of the court filing," Energy Department spokesperson Ben Dietderich told The New York Times. The lawsuits challenging the grant cancellations are ongoing.

The Trump administration has acknowledged in a court filing that hundreds of federal energy grants were cancelled because they benefited states won by Kamala Harris in the 2024 election, according to a report. BIG revelations below.

The Trump administration has acknowledged in court that it cancelled hundreds of federal energy grants because they benefited states won by former Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election, according to a report by The New York Times. The admission came in a court filing submitted this month as part of a lawsuit brought by several grant recipients challenging the cancellation of billions of dollars in Biden-era funding. According to the filing, the US Department of Energy (DOE) accepted that the decision to terminate 284 grants was based solely on whether the projects were located in states that voted for Harris and were represented by two Democratic-caucusing senators. Court filing details selection criteria An Energy Department lawyer wrote in a July 15 court filing that, with one exception, all of the terminated grants were linked to Democratic-leaning states. "With one exception, the 284 terminated grants had a recipient location and/or at least one place of performance in a state that awarded its electoral votes to Kamala Harris in the 2024 election and has two Democratic-caucusing senators," the filing said. The lawyer further stated that the grants were not cancelled because of program performance, statutory concerns, cost reductions or other operational factors. "DOE accepts that the inclusion of grants in the October notice tranche was based solely on the political identity of the grant recipient's state, i.e., whether the recipient's location and/or place of performance was in a Blue State or a non-Blue State," the filing said. Also read | 'Trust Trump, he understands Saudi psychology': Stephen Miller defends surprise Israel condition in US-Saudi nuclear deal Nearly all cancelled grants were in Democratic states According to The New York Times, the Energy Department had initially submitted a list of more than 600 Biden-era grants in both Republican- and Democratic-leaning states for review. However, in October, the White House Office of Management and Budget, led by Director Russ Vought, cancelled 284 grants, 283 of which were located in Democratic-leaning states. The cancelled projects reportedly included electrical grid upgrades and clean hydrogen hub initiatives in California. Democrats accuse administration of political retaliation California Governor Gavin Newsom, a frequent critic of President Donald Trump, condemned the revelations in a post on X. "The corrupt Trump administration has just admitted to withholding taxpayer dollars from states based on how they voted," Newsom wrote. "Last I checked we were a democracy, not a dictatorship. Where the hell is Congress?" Democratic Senator Patty Murray and Representative Marcy Kaptur also criticised the administration, calling the grant cancellations "outright un-American."

The Trump administration has acknowledged in a court filing that hundreds of federal energy grants were cancelled because they benefited states won by Kamala Harris in the 2024 election, according to a report. BIG revelations below.

Trump administration admits in court why it cancelled hundreds of energy grants. The reason? People voted for Kamala Harris

US President Donald Trump delivers a major foreign policy update, asserting that Tehran is approaching diplomatic negotiations with newfound seriousness amid escalating tensions. As intense back-channel diplomacy unfolds alongside ongoing military posturing in the Persian Gulf, global leaders are closely watching whether these high-stakes talks can de-escalate the standoff or if the threat of conflict remains imminent.


US-Iran war | Trump: Iran is taking negotiations more seriously than before

White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller on Friday (Jul 24) defended President Donald Trump's decision to condition a newly signed US-Saudi civilian nuclear agreement on Riyadh joining the Abraham Accords, saying Americans should "just assume and trust" that the president knows how to deal with the Saudi leadership.Speaking to reporters, Miller was asked why Trump announced the new condition only a day after Washington and Riyadh signed the nuclear cooperation agreement."The president has been very clear with Saudi Arabia," Miller said, adding that he expects the kingdom to normalise relations with Israel by joining the Abraham Accords.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-must-normalise-ties-with-israel-to-secure-nuclear-deal-with-us-trump-1784812903857">Saudi Arabia must join Abraham Accords to normalise ties with Israel for nuclear deal with US: Trump</a><h2>'Trump understands Saudi psychology'</h2>Miller argued that Trump has a unique understanding of Saudi Arabia's leadership and negotiating style. "The president, better than any American alive, understands the psychology of the kingdom, the players in the kingdom, and what that relationship looks like," Miller said."So he understands Saudi psychology. He understands the Saudi plan, the future. So we should just assume and trust that the president knows exactly what to do and how to do it," he added.His remarks came amid growing questions over the future of the agreement after Trump publicly linked it to Saudi Arabia's recognition of Israel.<h2>Trump confirms new condition</h2>At the White House on Thursday, Trump said the civilian nuclear agreement would proceed only if Saudi Arabia joins the Abraham Accords."It's a two-way street, and we think it's very important for the future of the Middle East," the president said.Earlier on Truth Social, Trump wrote that the agreement "will be approved, but is totally subject to Saudi Arabia joining the very respected and successful Abraham Accords."White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt later insisted that Trump had communicated this position to Saudi leaders in previous conversations.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-iran-has-evil-intentions-vows-it-will-never-get-nuclear-weapons-rubio-warns-iran-will-continue-to-pay-a-very-heavy-price-1784857820016">Trump warns Iran has 'evil intentions', vows it will 'never' get nuclear weapons</a><h2>Saudi stance remains unchanged</h2>Trump's condition comes despite Saudi Arabia repeatedly stating that it will not establish diplomatic relations with Israel until there is a credible pathway to a Palestinian state in the West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza.The condition was not included in the civilian nuclear agreement announced a day earlier, raising uncertainty over whether the deal can move forward.<h2>Nuclear deal sparks proliferation concerns</h2>The agreement has also prompted debate among nuclear experts after reports suggested it could allow the export of US nuclear technology without some of the safeguards typically included in civilian nuclear cooperation agreements.While Secretary of State Marco Rubio has maintained that safeguards against nuclear proliferation remain in place, analysts have questioned whether the proposed arrangement could weaken long-standing US non-proliferation policy. The agreement still requires approval by the US Congress before it can take effect.

White House deputy chief of staff says Americans should 'just assume and trust' Trump as Saudi Arabia resists normalising ties with Israel. Here's what he said.

White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller on Friday (Jul 24) defended President Donald Trump's decision to condition a newly signed US-Saudi civilian nuclear agreement on Riyadh joining the Abraham Accords, saying Americans should "just assume and trust" that the president knows how to deal with the Saudi leadership. Speaking to reporters, Miller was asked why Trump announced the new condition only a day after Washington and Riyadh signed the nuclear cooperation agreement. "The president has been very clear with Saudi Arabia," Miller said, adding that he expects the kingdom to normalise relations with Israel by joining the Abraham Accords. Also read | Saudi Arabia must join Abraham Accords to normalise ties with Israel for nuclear deal with US: Trump 'Trump understands Saudi psychology' Miller argued that Trump has a unique understanding of Saudi Arabia's leadership and negotiating style. "The president, better than any American alive, understands the psychology of the kingdom, the players in the kingdom, and what that relationship looks like," Miller said. "So he understands Saudi psychology. He understands the Saudi plan, the future. So we should just assume and trust that the president knows exactly what to do and how to do it," he added. His remarks came amid growing questions over the future of the agreement after Trump publicly linked it to Saudi Arabia's recognition of Israel. Trump confirms new condition At the White House on Thursday, Trump said the civilian nuclear agreement would proceed only if Saudi Arabia joins the Abraham Accords. "It's a two-way street, and we think it's very important for the future of the Middle East," the president said. Earlier on Truth Social, Trump wrote that the agreement "will be approved, but is totally subject to Saudi Arabia joining the very respected and successful Abraham Accords." White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt later insisted that Trump had communicated this position to Saudi leaders in previous conversations. Also read | Trump warns Iran has 'evil intentions', vows it will 'never' get nuclear weapons Saudi stance remains unchanged Trump's condition comes despite Saudi Arabia repeatedly stating that it will not establish diplomatic relations with Israel until there is a credible pathway to a Palestinian state in the West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza. The condition was not included in the civilian nuclear agreement announced a day earlier, raising uncertainty over whether the deal can move forward. Nuclear deal sparks proliferation concerns The agreement has also prompted debate among nuclear experts after reports suggested it could allow the export of US nuclear technology without some of the safeguards typically included in civilian nuclear cooperation agreements. While Secretary of State Marco Rubio has maintained that safeguards against nuclear proliferation remain in place, analysts have questioned whether the proposed arrangement could weaken long-standing US non-proliferation policy. The agreement still requires approval by the US Congress before it can take effect.

White House deputy chief of staff says Americans should 'just assume and trust' Trump as Saudi Arabia resists normalising ties with Israel. Here's what he said.

'Trust Trump, he understands Saudi psychology': Stephen Miller defends surprise Israel condition in US-Saudi nuclear deal

US President Donald Trump will attend the rescheduled White House Correspondents' Dinner on Friday (July 24), three months after gunshots forced his evacuation and led organisers to cancel the event. The dinner will take place under heightened security. However, First Lady Melania Trump will not accompany the president to the event.&nbsp;A White House spokesperson confirmed that Melania has a prior commitment, as per Fox News.Trump will deliver the speech he could not give in April after gunshots were fired at the Washington Hilton, forcing the cancellation of the black-tie dinner.&nbsp;The event has also moved from the Hilton to the Waldorf Astoria, a former Trump hotel. Organisers said the new venue will make the gala much smaller and "more intimate."<h2>Previous gala called off after shooting</h2>Chaos erupted at the White House dinner on April 25, 2026, when gunman Cole Tomas Allen opened fire near a security checkpoint at the Washington Hilton. Armed with a shotgun, pistol and knives, the 31-year-old shot a Secret Service officer, whose vest prevented serious injury.&nbsp;Tactical agents rushed President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump and Vice President JD Vance to safety as 2,600 guests scrambled under tables. Officers quickly subdued Allen, who had emailed an anti-government manifesto beforehand.&nbsp;The dinner was cancelled, and Allen now faces federal attempted assassination charges.California man Cole Allen, 31, has pleaded not guilty to charges that include attempting to kill the president.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-army-chief-used-private-oil-venture-to-keep-iran-attacks-off-saudi-arabia-report-1784899497194">Pakistan army chief used private oil venture to keep Iran attacks off Saudi Arabia: Report</a><h2>Trump to return after three months</h2>"In April, President Trump promised to finish the job and plan another WHCA Dinner, and today, he will deliver on that promise," White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt was quoted as saying by AFP.&nbsp;"We look forward to a great and fun evening celebrating 250 years of American greatness and a free press."&nbsp;Trump's appearance at the April dinner marked his first attendance at the event during either of his two terms as president. His absence from previous dinners reflected his disdain for the media, which he has called the "enemy of the people."

US President Donald Trump will attend the rescheduled White House Correspondents' Dinner three months after a shooting forced the previous event to be cancelled, while First Lady Melania Trump will skip the gathering due to a prior commitment.

US President Donald Trump will attend the rescheduled White House Correspondents' Dinner on Friday (July 24), three months after gunshots forced his evacuation and led organisers to cancel the event. The dinner will take place under heightened security. However, First Lady Melania Trump will not accompany the president to the event. A White House spokesperson confirmed that Melania has a prior commitment, as per Fox News. Trump will deliver the speech he could not give in April after gunshots were fired at the Washington Hilton, forcing the cancellation of the black-tie dinner. The event has also moved from the Hilton to the Waldorf Astoria, a former Trump hotel. Organisers said the new venue will make the gala much smaller and "more intimate." Previous gala called off after shooting Chaos erupted at the White House dinner on April 25, 2026, when gunman Cole Tomas Allen opened fire near a security checkpoint at the Washington Hilton. Armed with a shotgun, pistol and knives, the 31-year-old shot a Secret Service officer, whose vest prevented serious injury. Tactical agents rushed President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump and Vice President JD Vance to safety as 2,600 guests scrambled under tables. Officers quickly subdued Allen, who had emailed an anti-government manifesto beforehand. The dinner was cancelled, and Allen now faces federal attempted assassination charges. California man Cole Allen, 31, has pleaded not guilty to charges that include attempting to kill the president. Also Read: Pakistan army chief used private oil venture to keep Iran attacks off Saudi Arabia: Report Trump to return after three months "In April, President Trump promised to finish the job and plan another WHCA Dinner, and today, he will deliver on that promise," White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt was quoted as saying by AFP. "We look forward to a great and fun evening celebrating 250 years of American greatness and a free press." Trump's appearance at the April dinner marked his first attendance at the event during either of his two terms as president. His absence from previous dinners reflected his disdain for the media, which he has called the "enemy of the people."

US President Donald Trump will attend the rescheduled White House Correspondents' Dinner three months after a shooting forced the previous event to be cancelled, while First Lady Melania Trump will skip the gathering due to a prior commitment.

Trump to attend White House press dinner rescheduled after shooting; Melania to skip

US President Donald Trump has announced that the proposed civilian nuclear agreement between the United States and Saudi Arabia will only be approved if Riyadh recognizes the State of Israel by joining the Abraham Accords. Trump stated that the deal, which is limited to non-military civilian nuclear energy and prohibits uranium enrichment, is "totally subject" to Saudi Arabia becoming part of the Abraham Accords. The remarks have raised fresh questions over the future of US-Saudi relations and Middle East diplomacy, especially since the text of the agreement has not yet been released. Saudi Arabia has not officially responded to Trump's latest statement.

Trump makes Saudi Nuclear deal conditional on Israel recognition | Abraham Accords back in Focus

The decades-old Cauvery water dispute may be entering a new phase as Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay are expected to hold high-level talks in Bengaluru. The proposed meeting is likely to focus on the controversial Mekedatu balancing reservoir project and water-sharing during distress years.
If the meeting takes place, it will mark the first bilateral dialogue between the chief ministers of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu on the Cauvery issue in decades. The development comes amid renewed political pressure over water allocation, with former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin urging stronger action to protect the state's share of Cauvery waters.

Cauvery Water Row: Karnataka & Tamil Nadu CMs to hold key Mekedatu talks

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