US President Donald Trump said that he "does not care" about the divisions within his country after the assassination of his close aide Charlie Kirk. In an interview on Fox &amp; Friends on Friday (September 12), the American president was asked what he intended to do to heal the wounds of Kirk’s shooting in Utah. “How do we fix this country? How do we come back together?” he was asked.&nbsp;Trump replied: “I tell you something that is going to get me in trouble, but I couldn’t care less.” This was just 48 hours after Kirk was shot dead at Utah Valley University while speaking on mass shootings. “The radicals on the right are radical because they don’t want to see crime … The radicals on the left are the problem – and they are vicious and horrible and politically savvy. They want men in women’s sports, they want transgender for everyone, they want open borders. The worst thing that happened to this country," Trump added.&nbsp;Alos read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-declares-charlie-kirk-a-martyr-says-there-s-never-been-anyone-who-1757599088450">Trump declares Charlie Kirk a martyr, says ‘there's never been anyone who...’</a>&nbsp;Trump declared his ally Charlie Kirk a martyr in a video message on September 11. He said, "To my great fellow Americans, I am filled with grief and anger at the heinous assassination of Charlie Kirk on a college campus in Utah. Charlie inspired millions, and tonight, all who knew him and loved him are united in shock and horror. Charlie was a patriot who devoted his life to the cause of open debate and the country that he loved so much, the United States of America. He fought for liberty, democracy, justice, and the American people. He's a martyr for truth and freedom, and there's never been anyone who was so respected by youth. Charlie was also a man of deep, deep faith. And we take comfort in the knowledge that he is now at peace with God in heaven.”&nbsp;

In an interview on Fox & Friends on Friday (September 12), the American president was asked what he intended to do to heal the wounds of Kirk shooting in Utah.

US President Donald Trump said that he "does not care" about the divisions within his country after the assassination of his close aide Charlie Kirk. In an interview on Fox & Friends on Friday (September 12), the American president was asked what he intended to do to heal the wounds of Kirk’s shooting in Utah. “How do we fix this country? How do we come back together?” he was asked. Trump replied: “I tell you something that is going to get me in trouble, but I couldn’t care less.” This was just 48 hours after Kirk was shot dead at Utah Valley University while speaking on mass shootings. “The radicals on the right are radical because they don’t want to see crime … The radicals on the left are the problem – and they are vicious and horrible and politically savvy. They want men in women’s sports, they want transgender for everyone, they want open borders. The worst thing that happened to this country," Trump added. Alos read: Trump declares Charlie Kirk a martyr, says ‘there's never been anyone who...’ Trump declared his ally Charlie Kirk a martyr in a video message on September 11. He said, "To my great fellow Americans, I am filled with grief and anger at the heinous assassination of Charlie Kirk on a college campus in Utah. Charlie inspired millions, and tonight, all who knew him and loved him are united in shock and horror. Charlie was a patriot who devoted his life to the cause of open debate and the country that he loved so much, the United States of America. He fought for liberty, democracy, justice, and the American people. He's a martyr for truth and freedom, and there's never been anyone who was so respected by youth. Charlie was also a man of deep, deep faith. And we take comfort in the knowledge that he is now at peace with God in heaven.”

In an interview on Fox &amp; Friends on Friday (September 12), the American president was asked what he intended to do to heal the wounds of Kirk’s shooting in Utah.

‘I couldn’t care less’: Trump on divisions within US after Charlie Kirk’s assassination

Veteran journalist Rick Sanchez recently spoke at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, where he said that US President Donald Trump's contradictory messaging strategy is pushing his nation's traditional allies towards rival powers. He mentioned Trump and said, "He's hot, he's cold. One day he loves you, one day he hates you."&nbsp;"The messaging that's coming out these days from the United States is so incredibly confusing that it leaves people wondering whether they should act on it. Or just ignore it. And what most people are choosing to do is usually ignore it, from a business standpoint," he said in his statement at the summit.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/six-killed-in-gujarat-as-cargo-ropeway-trolley-breaks-down-at-pavagadh-hill-temple-1757162422450">6 killed in Gujarat as cargo ropeway trolley breaks down at Pavagadh Hill Temple</a>&nbsp;The journalist emphasised how this inconsistency violates fundamental business principles. "If you're a real businessman, you would know that the last thing you ever want to do to a market is confuse it. There has to be consistency of messaging," he argued.&nbsp;"Look, we'll be your friend. We'll be your business partners, we'll buy your products. We'll share rare earth minerals with you... Let's just get together and we'll do for each other what you were hoping the United States would do for you that you no longer trust the United States will do," the journo added.&nbsp;He also added, “The person who's holding the door open is Donald Trump. Donald Trump is literally telling Russia, we don't want to be your friends. Go be friends with China.”&nbsp;

Veteran journalist Rick Sanchez recently spoke at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, where he said that US President Donald Trump contradictory messaging strategy is pushing his nation traditional allies towards rival powers. 

Veteran journalist Rick Sanchez recently spoke at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, where he said that US President Donald Trump's contradictory messaging strategy is pushing his nation's traditional allies towards rival powers. He mentioned Trump and said, "He's hot, he's cold. One day he loves you, one day he hates you." "The messaging that's coming out these days from the United States is so incredibly confusing that it leaves people wondering whether they should act on it. Or just ignore it. And what most people are choosing to do is usually ignore it, from a business standpoint," he said in his statement at the summit. Also read: 6 killed in Gujarat as cargo ropeway trolley breaks down at Pavagadh Hill Temple The journalist emphasised how this inconsistency violates fundamental business principles. "If you're a real businessman, you would know that the last thing you ever want to do to a market is confuse it. There has to be consistency of messaging," he argued. "Look, we'll be your friend. We'll be your business partners, we'll buy your products. We'll share rare earth minerals with you... Let's just get together and we'll do for each other what you were hoping the United States would do for you that you no longer trust the United States will do," the journo added. He also added, “The person who's holding the door open is Donald Trump. Donald Trump is literally telling Russia, we don't want to be your friends. Go be friends with China.”

Veteran journalist Rick Sanchez recently spoke at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, where he said that US President Donald Trump's contradictory messaging strategy is pushing his nation's traditional allies towards rival powers.&nbsp;

One day Trump's hot, one day he's cool: American journalist explains why US is 'NOT' the most powerful country

An US judge declared the Trump administration's deployation of national guards in Los Angeleles an illegal act. The judge, Charles Breyer said on Tuesday (September 2) that the use of 4,000 National Guard and 700 active duty US Marines to Los Angeles in June was the violated of the Posse Comitatus Act.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/a-brahmin-blunder-navarro-s-weaponised-misunderstanding-of-caste-and-class-1756834098320">A Brahmin Blunder: Navarro’s weaponised misunderstanding of caste and class</a>&nbsp;White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly said that “a rogue judge is trying to usurp the authority of the Commander-in-Chief to protect American cities from violence and destruction.” The ruling is on hold 12 September.&nbsp;"The President is committed to protecting law-abiding citizens, and this will not be the final say on the issue," Ms Kelly said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modi-hitting-back-at-trump-indian-pm-s-economic-selfishness-remark-after-us-president-s-one-sided-disaster-jab-amid-tariff-row-1756801988597">PM Modi's 'economic selfishness' remark after Trump's 'one-sided disaster' jab</a>&nbsp;Governor Gavin Newsom said in a statement that "the court sided with democracy and the Constitution."&nbsp;"President Trump's recent executive orders and public statements regarding the National Guard raise serious concerns as to whether he intends to order troops to violate the Posse Comitatus Act elsewhere in California," Judge Breyer wrote.&nbsp;Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/second-earthquake-of-magnitude-5-5-strikes-afghanistan-day-after-massive-6-0-quake-kills-over-1-400-1756817539463">Second earthquake of magnitude 5.2 strikes Afghanistan</a>&nbsp;US appeals court finds Trump's global tariffs illegal, Trump says...&nbsp;A US federal court ruled on Friday (August 29) that most of President Donald Trump's tariffs, including the 50 per cent on India, were illegal. The federal appeals court said that the American president had exceeded his authority in imposing them. Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pak-defence-minister-khawaja-asif-tells-citizens-to-treat-floods-as-a-blessing-says-store-water-in-tubs-1756807832538">Pak defence minister tells citizens to treat floods as ‘blessing’: ‘Store water’</a>&nbsp;The decision marks a blow to Trump, who has wielded duties as a wide-ranging economic policy tool. Although the ruling allowed the tariffs to stay in place for now, while sent the case back to a lower court for further consideration.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

The judge, Charles Breyer said on Tuesday (September 2) that the use of 4,000 National Guard and 700 active duty U.S. Marines to Los Angeles in June was the violated of the Posse Comitatus Act.

An US judge declared the Trump administration's deployation of national guards in Los Angeleles an illegal act. The judge, Charles Breyer said on Tuesday (September 2) that the use of 4,000 National Guard and 700 active duty US Marines to Los Angeles in June was the violated of the Posse Comitatus Act. Also read: A Brahmin Blunder: Navarro’s weaponised misunderstanding of caste and class White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly said that “a rogue judge is trying to usurp the authority of the Commander-in-Chief to protect American cities from violence and destruction.” The ruling is on hold 12 September. "The President is committed to protecting law-abiding citizens, and this will not be the final say on the issue," Ms Kelly said. Also read: PM Modi's 'economic selfishness' remark after Trump's 'one-sided disaster' jab Governor Gavin Newsom said in a statement that "the court sided with democracy and the Constitution." "President Trump's recent executive orders and public statements regarding the National Guard raise serious concerns as to whether he intends to order troops to violate the Posse Comitatus Act elsewhere in California," Judge Breyer wrote. Also read: Second earthquake of magnitude 5.2 strikes Afghanistan US appeals court finds Trump's global tariffs illegal, Trump says... A US federal court ruled on Friday (August 29) that most of President Donald Trump's tariffs, including the 50 per cent on India, were illegal. The federal appeals court said that the American president had exceeded his authority in imposing them. Also read: Pak defence minister tells citizens to treat floods as ‘blessing’: ‘Store water’ The decision marks a blow to Trump, who has wielded duties as a wide-ranging economic policy tool. Although the ruling allowed the tariffs to stay in place for now, while sent the case back to a lower court for further consideration.

The judge, Charles Breyer said on Tuesday (September 2) that the use of 4,000 National Guard and 700 active duty U.S. Marines to Los Angeles in June was the violated of the Posse Comitatus Act.

Judge declares Trump's use of troops in LA illegal, says...

US President Donald Trump, when asked about the meeting between Russian President and Ukrainian president, said on Tuesday (August 26) that it takes "two people t tango". He said, "you got to get them together." The American president added that his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky, "isn not exactly innocent either."&nbsp;"It’s no different than the worst wars that I’ve ever seen, and if I can stop it – because I have a certain power or a certain relationship – I had a very good relationship with President Putin, very, very good. That’s a positive thing again," Trump said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/supreme-court-s-major-verdict-allows-trump-to-cut-around-800mn-of-research-funding-in-anti-dei-push-1755811728794">Supreme Court's major verdict - Allows Trump to cut around $800mn of research funding in anti-DEI push</a>&nbsp;Moreover, the president kept his answer short and snappy when asked about Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov’s comments that Russia wasn’t interested in a long-term peace deal with Ukraine. “Doesn’t matter what they say. Everybody’s posturing. It’s all bullshit,” Trump said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Trump renewed his threat to Russia, saying he will impose economic penalties on the country if Vladimir Putin refuses a Ukraine ceasefire deal.&nbsp;“It will not be a world war but it will be an economic war,” Trump said. &nbsp;“It’s going to be bad for Russia," he added. Although he did not &nbsp;set any fresh timetable for following through. But he quickly added that he didn’t want to impose new sanctions or tariffs aimed at hurting the Russian economy, expressing hope that there was still a path toward brokering a deal to end the war.<h2>Zelensky says Putin is avoiding meeting him</h2>Zelensky accused his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, on Thursday (August 21) of not wanting to meet him, as he is willing to continue the ongoing war. He said that Putin is avoiding the "necessity" of holding a meeting between the two countries' leaders despite US-led efforts to arrange such a summit to try to end the war.

 Donald Trump was asked about the meeting between Russian President and Ukrainian president. He said in response that it takes two people t tango. The American president added that his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky, isn not exactly innocent either.

US President Donald Trump, when asked about the meeting between Russian President and Ukrainian president, said on Tuesday (August 26) that it takes "two people t tango". He said, "you got to get them together." The American president added that his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky, "isn not exactly innocent either." "It’s no different than the worst wars that I’ve ever seen, and if I can stop it – because I have a certain power or a certain relationship – I had a very good relationship with President Putin, very, very good. That’s a positive thing again," Trump said. Also read: Supreme Court's major verdict - Allows Trump to cut around $800mn of research funding in anti-DEI push Moreover, the president kept his answer short and snappy when asked about Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov’s comments that Russia wasn’t interested in a long-term peace deal with Ukraine. “Doesn’t matter what they say. Everybody’s posturing. It’s all bullshit,” Trump said. Meanwhile, Trump renewed his threat to Russia, saying he will impose economic penalties on the country if Vladimir Putin refuses a Ukraine ceasefire deal. “It will not be a world war but it will be an economic war,” Trump said. “It’s going to be bad for Russia," he added. Although he did not set any fresh timetable for following through. But he quickly added that he didn’t want to impose new sanctions or tariffs aimed at hurting the Russian economy, expressing hope that there was still a path toward brokering a deal to end the war. Zelensky says Putin is avoiding meeting him Zelensky accused his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, on Thursday (August 21) of not wanting to meet him, as he is willing to continue the ongoing war. He said that Putin is avoiding the "necessity" of holding a meeting between the two countries' leaders despite US-led efforts to arrange such a summit to try to end the war.

&nbsp;Donald Trump was asked about the meeting between Russian President and Ukrainian president. He said in response that it takes "two people t tango". The American president added that his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky, "isn not exactly innocent either."

'It takes two to tango': Trump comments on Ukraine deal, says Zelensky isn't 'innocent' either

US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday (August 26) that if Harvard University wants to restore its federal funding, it needs to pay $500 million to his administration. The American president announced the settlement amount, saying that the elite university has been “very bad.”“We want nothing less than $500 million from Harvard. Don’t negotiate, Linda,” Trump said to Education Secretary Linda McMahon during a Cabinet meeting.&nbsp;He continued, “They’ve been very bad. Don’t negotiate.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexican-drug-lord-el-mayo-zambada-pleads-guilty-in-us-pam-bondi-says-he-ll-die-in-jail-where-he-belongs-1756162459516">Mexican drug lord ‘El Mayo’ Zambada pleads guilty in US, Pam Bondi says he’ll die in jail where he ‘belongs’</a> As per The New York Times, three people said that Harvard would agree to invest $500 million in vocational and educational programs and research. The university has reportedly said that it would not pay the government directly, while the Trump administration would reportedly restore Harvard’s research funding and forgo appointing a monitor.<h2>Trump says US colleges 'would go to hell' without Chinese students</h2>Trump said that he likes it when students from China and other countries come to study at US universities. He said that if they stop coming, the American college system would come to an end. With this statement, the American president appeared to back off his administration’s plans to “aggressively revoke visas for Chinese students,” a move that, he said, came as US relations with China have improved.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-calls-israel-s-justification-of-killing-journalists-baseless-and-an-attempt-to-evade-legal-responsibility-1756239098616">Hamas calls Israel’s justification of killing journalists ‘baseless’ and an attempt to evade legal responsibility</a> “We’re getting along very well with China, and I’m getting along very well with President Xi. I think it’s very insulting to say students can’t come here," Trump said. “I like that their students come here. I like that other countries’ students come here. And you know what would happen if they didn’t? Our college system would go to hell very quickly," the American president added.

 Donald Trump said that if Harvard University wants to restore its federal funding, it needs to pay $500 million to his administration. The American president announced the settlement amount, saying that the elite university has been very bad.

US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday (August 26) that if Harvard University wants to restore its federal funding, it needs to pay $500 million to his administration. The American president announced the settlement amount, saying that the elite university has been “very bad.” “We want nothing less than $500 million from Harvard. Don’t negotiate, Linda,” Trump said to Education Secretary Linda McMahon during a Cabinet meeting. He continued, “They’ve been very bad. Don’t negotiate.” Also read: Mexican drug lord ‘El Mayo’ Zambada pleads guilty in US, Pam Bondi says he’ll die in jail where he ‘belongs’ As per The New York Times, three people said that Harvard would agree to invest $500 million in vocational and educational programs and research. The university has reportedly said that it would not pay the government directly, while the Trump administration would reportedly restore Harvard’s research funding and forgo appointing a monitor. Trump says US colleges 'would go to hell' without Chinese students Trump said that he likes it when students from China and other countries come to study at US universities. He said that if they stop coming, the American college system would come to an end. With this statement, the American president appeared to back off his administration’s plans to “aggressively revoke visas for Chinese students,” a move that, he said, came as US relations with China have improved. Also read: Hamas calls Israel’s justification of killing journalists ‘baseless’ and an attempt to evade legal responsibility “We’re getting along very well with China, and I’m getting along very well with President Xi. I think it’s very insulting to say students can’t come here," Trump said. “I like that their students come here. I like that other countries’ students come here. And you know what would happen if they didn’t? Our college system would go to hell very quickly," the American president added.

&nbsp;Donald Trump said that if Harvard University wants to restore its federal funding, it needs to pay $500 million to his administration. The American president announced the settlement amount, saying that the elite university has been “very bad.”

'We want nothing less than $500 million from Harvard': Trump demands sweeping settlement

In a recent transatlantic bout, London's mayor, Sadiq Khan, has responded to US President Donald Trump's latest remark of ‘nasty person'. Mayor Sadiq Khan dealt the latest jab by welcoming US President Trump to London. His office responded that Mr Trump would find a vibrant, diverse London among the strong headwinds of right-wing populism.While addressing a joint press conference with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump was asked if he would visit the British Capital, London. In response, Trump said, ”I’m not a fan of your mayor. I think he’s done a terrible job... the Mayor of London... a nasty person,” Karmer sitting beside interrupted Trump, “He is my friend”. Trump immediately added, “But I would certainly visit London.”The mayor Khan's spokesperson responded more quietly, targeting the anti-immigrant values of Trump, "Sadiq is delighted that President Trump wants to come to the greatest city in the world. He’d see how our diversity makes us stronger, not weaker; richer, not poorer. Perhaps these are the reasons why a record number of Americans have applied for British citizenship under his Presidency”This is not the first time Trump has attacked Mayor Sadiq Khan. During his first term, Trump has called Khan a “stone-cold loser” and “very dumb”, citing crime and terrorism in London. Khan also did not withhold his feelings; he called Trump the “poster boy for racists”. The two share differing opinions on immigration, identity and political values.While Trump's comments were blunt, the UK Prime Minister maintained a more measured approach, claiming that he has a very strong working relationship with both the US administration and the local leadership in London. But Trump's comments have put Khan above the fray. Those familiar with the city hall politics say that these remarks just solidify his position. Amid the staunch rise of right-wing populism, he is seen as a bulwark of liberal values.

In a fresh flare-up of a long-engaging bout between US President Donald Trump's ‘nasty person’ remark to London Mayor Sadiq Khan, his office responds, highlighting London's diversity and resilience while subtly criticising Trump's leadership and why US citizens are applying for UK citizenship

In a recent transatlantic bout, London's mayor, Sadiq Khan, has responded to US President Donald Trump's latest remark of ‘nasty person'. Mayor Sadiq Khan dealt the latest jab by welcoming US President Trump to London. His office responded that Mr Trump would find a vibrant, diverse London among the strong headwinds of right-wing populism. While addressing a joint press conference with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump was asked if he would visit the British Capital, London. In response, Trump said, ”I’m not a fan of your mayor. I think he’s done a terrible job... the Mayor of London... a nasty person,” Karmer sitting beside interrupted Trump, “He is my friend”. Trump immediately added, “But I would certainly visit London.” The mayor Khan's spokesperson responded more quietly, targeting the anti-immigrant values of Trump, "Sadiq is delighted that President Trump wants to come to the greatest city in the world. He’d see how our diversity makes us stronger, not weaker; richer, not poorer. Perhaps these are the reasons why a record number of Americans have applied for British citizenship under his Presidency” This is not the first time Trump has attacked Mayor Sadiq Khan. During his first term, Trump has called Khan a “stone-cold loser” and “very dumb”, citing crime and terrorism in London. Khan also did not withhold his feelings; he called Trump the “poster boy for racists”. The two share differing opinions on immigration, identity and political values. While Trump's comments were blunt, the UK Prime Minister maintained a more measured approach, claiming that he has a very strong working relationship with both the US administration and the local leadership in London. But Trump's comments have put Khan above the fray. Those familiar with the city hall politics say that these remarks just solidify his position. Amid the staunch rise of right-wing populism, he is seen as a bulwark of liberal values.

In a fresh flare-up of a long-engaging bout between US President Donald Trump's ‘nasty person’ remark to London Mayor Sadiq Khan, his office responds, highlighting London's diversity and resilience while subtly criticising Trump's leadership and why US citizens are applying for UK citizenship

Trump calls Sadiq Khan a 'Nasty Person' — London Mayor fires back with grace

Stepping up his attack on Barack Obama, US President Donald Trump on Monday posted an AI-generated video on Truth Social that shows the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) arresting the former President in the White House. The social media post comes after the Trump administration accused Obama of election fraud in 2016.&nbsp;The video of Obama being arrested has gone viral inviting criticism from various corners. Critics have termed the move as a bid to distract attention from the Epstein files that feature Trump's name.&nbsp;The viral clip begins with Obama saying, "especially the President is above the law". Then after a while, former US president Joe Biden appears in the AI generated video saying “no one is above the law”. In the next clip Obama can be seen being handcuffed by two FBI agents in the Oval office which once he occupied. And while Obama is being 'arrested', Trump can be seen sitting and smiling in the AI video. In the last shot, Obama is inside a prison wearing an orange costume.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Donald J. Trump Truth Social 07.20.25 06:47 PM EST <a href="https://t.co/Xf5LYzkZiI">pic.twitter.com/Xf5LYzkZiI</a>&mdash; Fan Donald J. Trump Posts From Truth Social (@TrumpDailyPosts) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrumpDailyPosts/status/1947074244229366220?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

No disclaimer was issued by Trump for the video being fictional for which he was slammed by critics, who called him "deeply irresponsible."&nbsp;Gabbard threatens Obama&nbsp;Trump posted the video after US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard on Friday (July 18) accused former President Barack Obama’s administration of election fraud in 2016, and threatened action against them.&nbsp;The statement by Gabbard was welcomed by Trump who said, “Congratulations to Tulsi Gabbard. Keep it coming!!!”&nbsp;Gabbard claims that Obama and several of his top officials orchestrated a “treasonous conspiracy” to undermine Trump’s victory in the 2016 election.&nbsp;In her statement Gabbard said that the national security officials under Obama “manufactured” and politicised intelligence assessments about Russian interference.&nbsp;She demanded an investigation of the case and said, “No matter how powerful, every person involved in this conspiracy must be investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."&nbsp;

The AI generated video comes after the Trump administration accused Obama and his officials of election fraud in 2016.

Stepping up his attack on Barack Obama, US President Donald Trump on Monday posted an AI-generated video on Truth Social that shows the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) arresting the former President in the White House. The social media post comes after the Trump administration accused Obama of election fraud in 2016. The video of Obama being arrested has gone viral inviting criticism from various corners. Critics have termed the move as a bid to distract attention from the Epstein files that feature Trump's name. The viral clip begins with Obama saying, "especially the President is above the law". Then after a while, former US president Joe Biden appears in the AI generated video saying “no one is above the law”. In the next clip Obama can be seen being handcuffed by two FBI agents in the Oval office which once he occupied. And while Obama is being 'arrested', Trump can be seen sitting and smiling in the AI video. In the last shot, Obama is inside a prison wearing an orange costume.

The AI generated video comes after the Trump administration accused Obama and his officials of election fraud in 2016.

Obama 'arrested' by FBI, put in jail: Trump shares AI video amid election fraud charges

The Trump administration’s sweeping cuts to US foreign aid have left dozens of critical water and sanitation projects abandoned midstream across developing countries, exposing vulnerable populations to mounting risks of disease, displacement, and insecurity.&nbsp;As per an exclusive investigation by Reuters, at least 21 water-related infrastructure projects in 16 countries have been halted after Washington froze hundreds of millions of dollars in funding earlier this year. The abrupt policy reversal has not only stranded construction sites but also endangered the lives of millions who had been promised clean drinking water and sanitation facilities by the United States.<h2>From cement sacks to security threats</h2>Projects once seen as symbols of US goodwill now lie incomplete, pipes rusting, trenches open, and bags of cement gathering dust. In Nepal, construction of over 100 water systems was paused, with 6,500 cement bags and vital plumbing material left idle. The Himalayan nation now plans to complete the job with domestic funds, according to Water Minister Pradeep Yadav.&nbsp;In Kenya’s Taita Taveta County, work on a key irrigation canal was stopped abruptly, with only 220 metres of a planned 3.1-kilometre channel built. Local leaders warn of a looming flood disaster, as unplastered canal walls may collapse during heavy rains, endangering lives and farmland. “Without plaster, the walls will collapse in heavy rain,” warned community leader Juma Kobo.&nbsp;According to internal memos accessed by Reuters, only 15 per cent of a five-year, $100 million USAID project in Kenya had been completed before contractors were told to withdraw. Nearly $100,000 worth of unused materials remain exposed to looting and degradation.&nbsp;A separate memo by the US embassy in Nairobi, cited by Reuters, noted the “reputational risk” from leaving such projects unfinished, suggesting that extremist groups like al Shabaab could exploit public anger to bolster recruitment.<h2>Lebanon, Congo, and a global toll</h2>In Lebanon, a USAID-backed initiative to supply solar-powered water utilities was cancelled, costing 70 jobs and forcing utilities back onto costly diesel systems, energy adviser Suzy Hoayek told Reuters. Meanwhile, in conflict-ridden eastern Congo, abandoned water kiosks now double as play areas for children. One mother, Evelyne Mbaswa, said her 16-year-old son disappeared after venturing out to fetch water.&nbsp;“These cuts are not just numbers on a budget sheet,” said Tjada D’Oyen McKenna, CEO of Mercy Corps. “This is the unraveling of progress, stability and human dignity.”&nbsp;Research published in The Lancet warned that the aid rollbacks could result in an additional 14 million deaths by 2030, many from preventable diseases linked to unsafe water and poor sanitation.<h2>Why Trump pulled the plug?</h2>The Trump administration has defended the foreign aid rollback, saying US taxpayer money should benefit Americans first. According to Reuters, senior Republicans argue that agencies like USAID had drifted from core missions, funding “woke” projects such as LGBT rights initiatives in Serbia.&nbsp;The water and sanitation programme had an annual budget of $450 million, a small share of the $61 billion in total US foreign aid. However, it had strong bipartisan support prior to 2025. A 2014 law that doubled water aid funding was passed unanimously by Congress.&nbsp;Yet since January, the dismantling of USAID operations has also stalled food, medical and infrastructure aid across multiple continents. Although the US State Department has restored some emergency aid, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said future assistance will be “more limited”.&nbsp;One exception is Jordan, where a $6 billion desalination plant project was revived after direct diplomatic intervention by King Abdullah, according to Reuters.&nbsp;But for countries like Ethiopia, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the future remains uncertain.<h2>Local solutions, uncertain futures</h2>In Kenya’s flood-prone Taita Taveta, residents are now scrambling for solutions. Community leaders plan to sell leftover cement and steel cables from the halted USAID site to fund basic backfilling.&nbsp;Farmer Mary Kibachia, 74, whose home was flooded after the project halted, summed up the sentiment: “Where can I go? This is home.” &nbsp;

At least 21 infrastructure projects in 16 nations were halted after funding freezes. In Nepal, over 100 water system constructions stalled, leaving crucial materials idle. Kenya irrigation canal work stopped abruptly, raising flood risks. 

The Trump administration’s sweeping cuts to US foreign aid have left dozens of critical water and sanitation projects abandoned midstream across developing countries, exposing vulnerable populations to mounting risks of disease, displacement, and insecurity. As per an exclusive investigation by Reuters, at least 21 water-related infrastructure projects in 16 countries have been halted after Washington froze hundreds of millions of dollars in funding earlier this year. The abrupt policy reversal has not only stranded construction sites but also endangered the lives of millions who had been promised clean drinking water and sanitation facilities by the United States. From cement sacks to security threats Projects once seen as symbols of US goodwill now lie incomplete, pipes rusting, trenches open, and bags of cement gathering dust. In Nepal, construction of over 100 water systems was paused, with 6,500 cement bags and vital plumbing material left idle. The Himalayan nation now plans to complete the job with domestic funds, according to Water Minister Pradeep Yadav. In Kenya’s Taita Taveta County, work on a key irrigation canal was stopped abruptly, with only 220 metres of a planned 3.1-kilometre channel built. Local leaders warn of a looming flood disaster, as unplastered canal walls may collapse during heavy rains, endangering lives and farmland. “Without plaster, the walls will collapse in heavy rain,” warned community leader Juma Kobo. According to internal memos accessed by Reuters, only 15 per cent of a five-year, $100 million USAID project in Kenya had been completed before contractors were told to withdraw. Nearly $100,000 worth of unused materials remain exposed to looting and degradation. A separate memo by the US embassy in Nairobi, cited by Reuters, noted the “reputational risk” from leaving such projects unfinished, suggesting that extremist groups like al Shabaab could exploit public anger to bolster recruitment. Lebanon, Congo, and a global toll In Lebanon, a USAID-backed initiative to supply solar-powered water utilities was cancelled, costing 70 jobs and forcing utilities back onto costly diesel systems, energy adviser Suzy Hoayek told Reuters. Meanwhile, in conflict-ridden eastern Congo, abandoned water kiosks now double as play areas for children. One mother, Evelyne Mbaswa, said her 16-year-old son disappeared after venturing out to fetch water. “These cuts are not just numbers on a budget sheet,” said Tjada D’Oyen McKenna, CEO of Mercy Corps. “This is the unraveling of progress, stability and human dignity.” Research published in The Lancet warned that the aid rollbacks could result in an additional 14 million deaths by 2030, many from preventable diseases linked to unsafe water and poor sanitation. Why Trump pulled the plug? The Trump administration has defended the foreign aid rollback, saying US taxpayer money should benefit Americans first. According to Reuters, senior Republicans argue that agencies like USAID had drifted from core missions, funding “woke” projects such as LGBT rights initiatives in Serbia. The water and sanitation programme had an annual budget of $450 million, a small share of the $61 billion in total US foreign aid. However, it had strong bipartisan support prior to 2025. A 2014 law that doubled water aid funding was passed unanimously by Congress. Yet since January, the dismantling of USAID operations has also stalled food, medical and infrastructure aid across multiple continents. Although the US State Department has restored some emergency aid, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said future assistance will be “more limited”. One exception is Jordan, where a $6 billion desalination plant project was revived after direct diplomatic intervention by King Abdullah, according to Reuters. But for countries like Ethiopia, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the future remains uncertain. Local solutions, uncertain futures In Kenya’s flood-prone Taita Taveta, residents are now scrambling for solutions. Community leaders plan to sell leftover cement and steel cables from the halted USAID site to fund basic backfilling. Farmer Mary Kibachia, 74, whose home was flooded after the project halted, summed up the sentiment: “Where can I go? This is home.”

The Trump administration's significant cuts to US foreign aid have led to the abandonment of essential water and sanitation projects in developing countries, putting vulnerable populations at risk of disease and insecurity.

Trump’s aid cuts stall global water projects, exposing millions to new risks

US President Donald Trump’s administration reportedly considered axing several federal contracts with Elon Musk’s SpaceX, but found most of them too vital to scrap. This is according to a detailed Wall Street Journal investigation published on July 19, citing senior officials familiar with the matter. The review was initiated after Trump’s public spat with Musk in June 2025, when the tech billionaire criticised Trump on social media platforms. In response, Trump suggested axing Musk’s government deals as a cost-cutting move.&nbsp;“The easiest way to save federal dollars is to cancel SpaceX contracts,” Trump posted on Truth Social last month. Following the post, Trump-appointed officials at the General Services Administration reportedly circulated internal requests to NASA, the Pentagon, and other departments for a contract-by-contract breakdown of all federal business awarded to SpaceX.<h2>Most SpaceX contracts deemed too essential</h2>However, the WSJ report says most of SpaceX’s federal contracts, especially those linked to national security and human spaceflight were flagged as irreplaceable. The Pentagon, NASA, and intelligence agencies reportedly warned that unwinding such deals would cripple key missions.&nbsp;One senior official familiar with the review told The Wall Street Journal that “the government has no real alternatives” when it comes to rocket launches, crew missions or military-grade satellite internet.&nbsp;The review ultimately failed to produce any major cancellations. Instead, the findings reinforced SpaceX’s strategic role in US defence and space infrastructure, from flying GPS satellites and ferrying NASA astronauts to supplying Starlink-based military communications.<h2>Behind-the-scenes diplomacy and Starlink’s growing role</h2>While Musk and Trump continue to spar in public, SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell reportedly held quiet meetings with White House officials in recent weeks, indicating efforts to contain the fallout. Meanwhile, SpaceX has secured fresh deals, including a $5.9 billion agreement to launch 28 national security missions for the US Space Force, as per WSJ.&nbsp;Musk’s space company is also central to the US’s internet-in-space ambitions. Its Starshield unit, a military variant of the Starlink constellation, is under a classified contract with the US intelligence community, the report adds.&nbsp;NASA too is heavily dependent on Musk’s company. The Crew Dragon capsule remains the only American spacecraft certified to carry astronauts to and from the International Space Station.&nbsp;Earlier this year, Musk reportedly threatened to suspend Dragon missions during a clash over political pressure. However, he later backed down after internal talks.<h2>No signs of slowdown</h2>Despite political heat, SpaceX continues to dominate global launch markets. The company is expected to launch a crewed NASA mission to the ISS later this month and is ramping up Starlink deployments globally, &nbsp;including in geopolitically sensitive regions like Ukraine and the Indo-Pacific.&nbsp;While Trump’s call for a SpaceX “review” briefly triggered alarm, the WSJ report makes clear: Musk’s company remains entrenched in US federal architecture and irreplaceable in the current geopolitical and technological landscape. &nbsp;

However, a Wall Street Journal report revealed most contracts, especially those vital to national security and space missions, were deemed irreplaceable. 

US President Donald Trump’s administration reportedly considered axing several federal contracts with Elon Musk’s SpaceX, but found most of them too vital to scrap. This is according to a detailed Wall Street Journal investigation published on July 19, citing senior officials familiar with the matter. The review was initiated after Trump’s public spat with Musk in June 2025, when the tech billionaire criticised Trump on social media platforms. In response, Trump suggested axing Musk’s government deals as a cost-cutting move. “The easiest way to save federal dollars is to cancel SpaceX contracts,” Trump posted on Truth Social last month. Following the post, Trump-appointed officials at the General Services Administration reportedly circulated internal requests to NASA, the Pentagon, and other departments for a contract-by-contract breakdown of all federal business awarded to SpaceX. Most SpaceX contracts deemed too essential However, the WSJ report says most of SpaceX’s federal contracts, especially those linked to national security and human spaceflight were flagged as irreplaceable. The Pentagon, NASA, and intelligence agencies reportedly warned that unwinding such deals would cripple key missions. One senior official familiar with the review told The Wall Street Journal that “the government has no real alternatives” when it comes to rocket launches, crew missions or military-grade satellite internet. The review ultimately failed to produce any major cancellations. Instead, the findings reinforced SpaceX’s strategic role in US defence and space infrastructure, from flying GPS satellites and ferrying NASA astronauts to supplying Starlink-based military communications. Behind-the-scenes diplomacy and Starlink’s growing role While Musk and Trump continue to spar in public, SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell reportedly held quiet meetings with White House officials in recent weeks, indicating efforts to contain the fallout. Meanwhile, SpaceX has secured fresh deals, including a $5.9 billion agreement to launch 28 national security missions for the US Space Force, as per WSJ. Musk’s space company is also central to the US’s internet-in-space ambitions. Its Starshield unit, a military variant of the Starlink constellation, is under a classified contract with the US intelligence community, the report adds. NASA too is heavily dependent on Musk’s company. The Crew Dragon capsule remains the only American spacecraft certified to carry astronauts to and from the International Space Station. Earlier this year, Musk reportedly threatened to suspend Dragon missions during a clash over political pressure. However, he later backed down after internal talks. No signs of slowdown Despite political heat, SpaceX continues to dominate global launch markets. The company is expected to launch a crewed NASA mission to the ISS later this month and is ramping up Starlink deployments globally, including in geopolitically sensitive regions like Ukraine and the Indo-Pacific. While Trump’s call for a SpaceX “review” briefly triggered alarm, the WSJ report makes clear: Musk’s company remains entrenched in US federal architecture and irreplaceable in the current geopolitical and technological landscape.

Trump’s administration considered cutting federal contracts with SpaceX due to Musk's criticism, but found most contracts essential, especially for national security and space missions.

Trump review spares critical SpaceX contracts: WSJ

Amid US President Donald Trump's mounting trade tensions, the Federal Reserve is under the spotlight. But this time, it’s not about interest rates or inflation, it’s about a construction bill. What started as a $1.9 billion renovation of the Federal Reserve’s Washington, DC headquarters has now swelled to $2.5 billion. That spike has sparked outrage from Trump's allies, who are pushing for an investigation into what they claim is an “ostentatious overhaul” of the 1937-era Marriner S. Eccles Building.&nbsp;According to Bloomberg, the ballooning costs have more to do with geological quirks, engineering nightmares, and post-9/11 security requirements than rooftop gardens or VIP lifts.<h2>Trump’s circle sees a chance to go after Powell</h2>Critics from the Trump administration aren’t buying it. In a July 10 letter to Fed Chair Jerome Powell, Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought labelled the renovation as excessive. He pointed to “rooftop terrace gardens,” “VIP dining rooms,” and “luxury elevators” as signs of government waste. Bill Pulte, a prominent Powell critic and Trump appointee leading the Federal Housing Finance Agency, told Bloomberg he’s confident that Congress will open a probe into the cost overruns.The criticism, however, might not just be about construction. As Bloomberg noted, the controversy could provide Trump allies with a pretext to push for Powell’s removal, especially after the Fed’s refusal to cut interest rates this year, defying the White House’s pro-growth stance.<h2>Powell pushes back</h2>In his defence, Powell responded to Vought in a July 17 letter, clarifying that the “terrace gardens” are eco-friendly green roofs and that the lift expansion is meant to comply with accessibility standards, not luxury tastes. As per Bloomberg, speaking to lawmakers in June, Powell acknowledged the scale of the challenge. “No one in office wants to do a major renovation of a historic building during their term in office,” he said. “We decided to take it on because… I came to understand how badly the Eccles Building really needed a serious renovation. It never had one. It was not really safe and it was not waterproof.”<h2>It’s not luxury — it’s geology</h2>So, what exactly is driving up the price?&nbsp;The Fed’s renovation covers both the Eccles Building and the adjacent East Building, originally built in 1931. According to Bloomberg, the project includes new office space, removal of hazardous materials like asbestos and lead, replacement of outdated mechanical systems, and structural upgrades to meet modern federal security standards.&nbsp;But the most expensive part is below ground.&nbsp;Washington, DC’s Tidal Basin, once a swamp, sits on unpredictable terrain with a high-water table. Deep excavation under these historic buildings turned out to be a feat of modern engineering.&nbsp;Berkel and Company Contractors, a specialist firm, had to lower the slab beneath the Eccles Building by more than 20 feet. That involved suspending the entire structure, demolishing the old basement, and driving over 1,000 micropiles, a method used when traditional foundations aren’t viable. Berkel later received an industry award for “excellence in the face of adversity,” as noted by the Washington Building Congress.<h2>Underground builds in DC are notorious</h2>Washington isn’t an easy place to dig. As landscape architect Phia Sennett wrote for the National Trust for Historic Preservation, much of the land along the National Mall was artificially created using sediment from the Potomac River, built over creeks and marshland.&nbsp;The Fed’s expansion includes a new 318-space parking garage under the East Building’s south lawn and a five-storey annex, with four floors below ground. Such below-grade construction is common in DC due to height restrictions, but it’s also expensive and risky.&nbsp;Bloomberg pointed out that the Smithsonian’s Castle restoration, which also proposed underground expansion was shelved after projected costs hit $2 billion. The nearby National Museum of African American History and Culture required a giant waterproof “bathtub” to keep the water out, with final costs of $540 million, 50 per cent over its original estimate.&nbsp;The Fed’s renovation was also delayed by design politics. During Trump’s first term, the US Commission of Fine Arts, led by Trump appointees demanded that the building incorporate more white marble and classical design elements, reversing an earlier proposal that used more glass.&nbsp;As reported by the Associated Press and cited in Bloomberg, the Fed had to rework its architectural plans to align with the administration’s “classical architecture” mandate for federal buildings.&nbsp;Mina Wright, director at the General Services Administration, described the Fed’s review process as “tumultuous.” Speaking in 2021, she said, “They’ve had some hostile criticism at one point that was unjustified.”<h2>The firms behind the billion-dollar facelift</h2>The Fed’s renovation is being carried out by Fortus, a joint venture between Dutch engineering giant Arcadis and US-based Quinn Evans Architects. Arcadis has experience in water infrastructure and resilience, while Quinn Evans is known for restoring historic buildings, including Michigan Central Station and the National Academy of Sciences.&nbsp;Neither firm commented directly on the controversy, referring Bloomberg back to the Fed.<h2>The bottom line</h2>While critics cry foul over a $2.5 billion bill, the real story lies in the unseen layers beneath the Fed’s historic headquarters, in foundations lowered by hand, in a water-logged city that’s notoriously tough to build in, and in the tangled bureaucracy of federal design mandates.&nbsp;For Powell, the renovation may be a political liability. But as he told Congress, it was a decision made out of necessity, not extravagance: “It was not safe. And it was not waterproof.”&nbsp;

While critics cry foul over a $2.5 billion bill, the real story lies in the unseen layers beneath the Fed historic headquarters, in foundations lowered by hand, in a water logged city that notoriously tough to build in, and in the tangled bureaucracy of federal design mandates.

Amid US President Donald Trump's mounting trade tensions, the Federal Reserve is under the spotlight. But this time, it’s not about interest rates or inflation, it’s about a construction bill. What started as a $1.9 billion renovation of the Federal Reserve’s Washington, DC headquarters has now swelled to $2.5 billion. That spike has sparked outrage from Trump's allies, who are pushing for an investigation into what they claim is an “ostentatious overhaul” of the 1937-era Marriner S. Eccles Building. According to Bloomberg, the ballooning costs have more to do with geological quirks, engineering nightmares, and post-9/11 security requirements than rooftop gardens or VIP lifts. Trump’s circle sees a chance to go after Powell Critics from the Trump administration aren’t buying it. In a July 10 letter to Fed Chair Jerome Powell, Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought labelled the renovation as excessive. He pointed to “rooftop terrace gardens,” “VIP dining rooms,” and “luxury elevators” as signs of government waste. Bill Pulte, a prominent Powell critic and Trump appointee leading the Federal Housing Finance Agency, told Bloomberg he’s confident that Congress will open a probe into the cost overruns. The criticism, however, might not just be about construction. As Bloomberg noted, the controversy could provide Trump allies with a pretext to push for Powell’s removal, especially after the Fed’s refusal to cut interest rates this year, defying the White House’s pro-growth stance. Powell pushes back In his defence, Powell responded to Vought in a July 17 letter, clarifying that the “terrace gardens” are eco-friendly green roofs and that the lift expansion is meant to comply with accessibility standards, not luxury tastes. As per Bloomberg, speaking to lawmakers in June, Powell acknowledged the scale of the challenge. “No one in office wants to do a major renovation of a historic building during their term in office,” he said. “We decided to take it on because… I came to understand how badly the Eccles Building really needed a serious renovation. It never had one. It was not really safe and it was not waterproof.” It’s not luxury — it’s geology So, what exactly is driving up the price? The Fed’s renovation covers both the Eccles Building and the adjacent East Building, originally built in 1931. According to Bloomberg, the project includes new office space, removal of hazardous materials like asbestos and lead, replacement of outdated mechanical systems, and structural upgrades to meet modern federal security standards. But the most expensive part is below ground. Washington, DC’s Tidal Basin, once a swamp, sits on unpredictable terrain with a high-water table. Deep excavation under these historic buildings turned out to be a feat of modern engineering. Berkel and Company Contractors, a specialist firm, had to lower the slab beneath the Eccles Building by more than 20 feet. That involved suspending the entire structure, demolishing the old basement, and driving over 1,000 micropiles, a method used when traditional foundations aren’t viable. Berkel later received an industry award for “excellence in the face of adversity,” as noted by the Washington Building Congress. Underground builds in DC are notorious Washington isn’t an easy place to dig. As landscape architect Phia Sennett wrote for the National Trust for Historic Preservation, much of the land along the National Mall was artificially created using sediment from the Potomac River, built over creeks and marshland. The Fed’s expansion includes a new 318-space parking garage under the East Building’s south lawn and a five-storey annex, with four floors below ground. Such below-grade construction is common in DC due to height restrictions, but it’s also expensive and risky. Bloomberg pointed out that the Smithsonian’s Castle restoration, which also proposed underground expansion was shelved after projected costs hit $2 billion. The nearby National Museum of African American History and Culture required a giant waterproof “bathtub” to keep the water out, with final costs of $540 million, 50 per cent over its original estimate. The Fed’s renovation was also delayed by design politics. During Trump’s first term, the US Commission of Fine Arts, led by Trump appointees demanded that the building incorporate more white marble and classical design elements, reversing an earlier proposal that used more glass. As reported by the Associated Press and cited in Bloomberg, the Fed had to rework its architectural plans to align with the administration’s “classical architecture” mandate for federal buildings. Mina Wright, director at the General Services Administration, described the Fed’s review process as “tumultuous.” Speaking in 2021, she said, “They’ve had some hostile criticism at one point that was unjustified.” The firms behind the billion-dollar facelift The Fed’s renovation is being carried out by Fortus, a joint venture between Dutch engineering giant Arcadis and US-based Quinn Evans Architects. Arcadis has experience in water infrastructure and resilience, while Quinn Evans is known for restoring historic buildings, including Michigan Central Station and the National Academy of Sciences. Neither firm commented directly on the controversy, referring Bloomberg back to the Fed. The bottom line While critics cry foul over a $2.5 billion bill, the real story lies in the unseen layers beneath the Fed’s historic headquarters, in foundations lowered by hand, in a water-logged city that’s notoriously tough to build in, and in the tangled bureaucracy of federal design mandates. For Powell, the renovation may be a political liability. But as he told Congress, it was a decision made out of necessity, not extravagance: “It was not safe. And it was not waterproof.”

Amid mounting pressure from Trump allies, here's inside the Federal Reserve $2.5 billion construction bill.&nbsp;

Why did the Fed spend whopping $2.5 billion for revamp?

US President Donald Trump has renewed pressure on the Federal Reserve, insisting the central bank should slash its benchmark interest rate to 1 per cent. He argues such a move would cut government borrowing costs and help finance the ballooning deficits driven by his administration’s spending and tax cuts.&nbsp;But economists warn this demand could spell serious trouble for the world’s largest economy. According to Reuters, Trump’s push for ultra-low rates risks undermining the Fed’s credibility, reigniting inflation and rattling investors in the $36 trillion US Treasury market, a critical source of funding for the federal government.<h2>Crisis-era rates, but no crisis</h2>Historically, a 1 per cent Fed policy rate has been associated with moments of genuine economic distress: the dot-com crash, the aftermath of 9/11, the 2008 global financial crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic. None of those conditions describe the current US economy.&nbsp;Unemployment is relatively low at 4.1 per cent, GDP growth is around 2 per cent, and inflation sits just above the Fed’s 2 per cent target. Gregory Daco, chief economist at EY-Parthenon, told Reuters that, “There is scope to ease from the current 4.25%-4.50% range, but nothing like the magnitude of cuts Trump envisions.”&nbsp;Daco noted that slashing rates to 1 per cent could alarm markets, signalling that the Fed had bowed to political pressure rather than responding to data, risking a loss of confidence and a spike in inflation expectations.The Fed’s mandate: not cheap borrowingThe Federal Reserve’s job is to maintain price stability and full employment, not to make it easier for the government to borrow. Cutting rates sharply when the economy isn’t in recession could spur demand just as new tariffs risk pushing prices higher.&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump’s administration recently passed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”, which is expected to widen the budget deficit and increase government borrowing needs. As Reuters notes, larger deficits mean the Treasury will have to issue more debt, potentially pushing interest rates up – the opposite of what Trump hopes for.<h2>Markets set the cost of borrowing</h2>Even if the Fed lowers its overnight rate, broader borrowing costs – such as those on mortgages, corporate loans, and crucially, government bonds – depend on investor demand. Global investors weigh inflation risks, government fiscal discipline and trust in institutions when pricing US debt.&nbsp;If markets perceive a 1 per cent Fed rate as politically motivated and inflationary, they could demand higher yields to compensate for the added risk. Reuters points out that when Trump threatened to fire Fed Chair Jerome Powell in 2024, Treasury yields rose – a clear signal that investors watch central bank independence closely.<h2>A question of trust and credibility</h2>The Fed uses rules and models to guide policy decisions, balancing inflation and growth data to set an appropriate interest rate. None of those frameworks support the kind of extreme cut Trump wants now.Sarah House, senior economist at Wells Fargo, told Reuters such a move would risk unmooring inflation expectations at precisely the moment the central bank needs to keep them anchored.&nbsp;Any sign that the Fed was being used to finance political priorities could undermine trust in US economic management and damage the dollar’s role as the world’s reserve currency.<h2>The bottom line</h2>Trump may see a 1 per cent interest rate as a way to fund his ambitious spending plans on the cheap, but the broader economy could pay the price in the form of higher inflation, reduced investor confidence, and long-term financial instability.&nbsp;While rate cuts remain possible if the economy weakens, economists caution that a sharp, politically driven move now would be risky and irresponsible.&nbsp;

But economists warn such an aggressive move could jeopardize the Fed credibility, spark inflation, and destabilise the $36 trillion Treasury market.

US President Donald Trump has renewed pressure on the Federal Reserve, insisting the central bank should slash its benchmark interest rate to 1 per cent. He argues such a move would cut government borrowing costs and help finance the ballooning deficits driven by his administration’s spending and tax cuts. But economists warn this demand could spell serious trouble for the world’s largest economy. According to Reuters, Trump’s push for ultra-low rates risks undermining the Fed’s credibility, reigniting inflation and rattling investors in the $36 trillion US Treasury market, a critical source of funding for the federal government. Crisis-era rates, but no crisis Historically, a 1 per cent Fed policy rate has been associated with moments of genuine economic distress: the dot-com crash, the aftermath of 9/11, the 2008 global financial crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic. None of those conditions describe the current US economy. Unemployment is relatively low at 4.1 per cent, GDP growth is around 2 per cent, and inflation sits just above the Fed’s 2 per cent target. Gregory Daco, chief economist at EY-Parthenon, told Reuters that, “There is scope to ease from the current 4.25%-4.50% range, but nothing like the magnitude of cuts Trump envisions.” Daco noted that slashing rates to 1 per cent could alarm markets, signalling that the Fed had bowed to political pressure rather than responding to data, risking a loss of confidence and a spike in inflation expectations. The Fed’s mandate: not cheap borrowing The Federal Reserve’s job is to maintain price stability and full employment, not to make it easier for the government to borrow. Cutting rates sharply when the economy isn’t in recession could spur demand just as new tariffs risk pushing prices higher. Trump’s administration recently passed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”, which is expected to widen the budget deficit and increase government borrowing needs. As Reuters notes, larger deficits mean the Treasury will have to issue more debt, potentially pushing interest rates up – the opposite of what Trump hopes for. Markets set the cost of borrowing Even if the Fed lowers its overnight rate, broader borrowing costs – such as those on mortgages, corporate loans, and crucially, government bonds – depend on investor demand. Global investors weigh inflation risks, government fiscal discipline and trust in institutions when pricing US debt. If markets perceive a 1 per cent Fed rate as politically motivated and inflationary, they could demand higher yields to compensate for the added risk. Reuters points out that when Trump threatened to fire Fed Chair Jerome Powell in 2024, Treasury yields rose – a clear signal that investors watch central bank independence closely. A question of trust and credibility The Fed uses rules and models to guide policy decisions, balancing inflation and growth data to set an appropriate interest rate. None of those frameworks support the kind of extreme cut Trump wants now. Sarah House, senior economist at Wells Fargo, told Reuters such a move would risk unmooring inflation expectations at precisely the moment the central bank needs to keep them anchored. Any sign that the Fed was being used to finance political priorities could undermine trust in US economic management and damage the dollar’s role as the world’s reserve currency. The bottom line Trump may see a 1 per cent interest rate as a way to fund his ambitious spending plans on the cheap, but the broader economy could pay the price in the form of higher inflation, reduced investor confidence, and long-term financial instability. While rate cuts remain possible if the economy weakens, economists caution that a sharp, politically driven move now would be risky and irresponsible.

Trump’s push for 1% interest rates alarms economists, who warn it could erode Fed independence, trigger inflation, and spook Treasury markets, despite no recession in sight.

Why Trump’s call for a 1% Federal Reserve rate could backfire on the US economy

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio strongly defended the Trump administration’s sweeping global tariff reset, calling it a “long overdue” correction to decades of imbalanced trade that he says has undermined American industry and national security. Speaking during a diplomatic tour of Southeast Asia, Rubio described the tariff overhaul — set to take effect August 1 — as a necessary global realignment, not an act of economic aggression.&nbsp;“There’s no country in the world where the issue of trade and tariffs wouldn’t come up,” Rubio said at a press conference in Kuala Lumpur. “But this is not about punishing anyone. It’s about fairness for American workers. It’s about fixing a system that hasn’t worked for decades.”&nbsp;Rubio’s message comes as trading partners across the Indo-Pacific express concern over Washington’s aggressive recalibration of tariffs. Vietnam, Japan, Malaysia, and others have warned of disruptions to long-established supply chains and mutual agreements. But Rubio pushed back on these concerns, arguing that many of America’s partners have benefited from lopsided trade dynamics, and that a reset is both fair and inevitable.&nbsp;“If we were targeting just a few countries, I could understand the backlash,” he said. “But this is global. Virtually every trade relationship is being reassessed. And if your economy is built on massive surpluses with the United States, of course you don’t want that to change — but it has to.”&nbsp;Rubio cited America’s ballooning trade deficits and the erosion of its domestic manufacturing capabilities as key reasons for the tariff reset. He pointed to sectors like shipbuilding, rare earth processing, and pharmaceuticals — industries that have either been outsourced or concentrated in adversarial regions — as examples of vulnerabilities the US can no longer afford.&nbsp;“It’s not just an economic issue. It’s a national security issue,” he said. “We need to be able to make things — not just for jobs, but for resilience. We’ve lost that edge, and it’s time to bring it back.”&nbsp;The secretary also addressed his much-anticipated meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, which he characterised as “constructive and positive.” While Rubio made clear that this was not a negotiation, he said the discussion laid the groundwork for future engagement on both contentious and cooperative fronts.&nbsp;“These are two big, powerful countries. There will always be disagreements,” he said. “But we have to keep talking. We have to communicate. And I thought today’s meeting was a good start.”&nbsp;Rubio confirmed that preparations are underway for a potential meeting between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping later this year, saying “the odds are high” that it will happen because both leaders are eager to engage. “Now it’s about getting the atmosphere and deliverables right,” he added. “We don’t want a meeting just for optics — we want results.”&nbsp;When asked about Taiwan, Rubio said the issue was not raised in a confrontational manner and emphasized that the meeting with Wang Yi was not one where “warnings” were issued. “They know our position. We know theirs. This was not about theatrics. This was about tone and trust.”&nbsp;Rubio also addressed criticism from some quarters that the tariff strategy could alienate allies and give China an opportunity to present itself as a more stable trade partner. He flatly rejected that narrative, saying America’s relationships in the region are far deeper than just economics. “We’re not walking away from our friends,” he said. “In fact, we’re doubling down. Look at what we’ve done just this week — agreements with Malaysia on civil nuclear cooperation, and an arrangement coming into force with Thailand. These are real steps, not rhetoric.”&nbsp;Rubio dismissed suggestions that US pressure on Japan to increase defense spending could strain bilateral ties, calling such expectations “encouragement” rather than demands. “We support Japan enhancing its capabilities within its constitutional limits. That’s not something we’re pushing against — it’s something we’re for,” he said, noting that Japan remains one of America’s closest allies.&nbsp;On Vietnam, another key US partner with a large trade surplus, Rubio said the issue of tariff levels came up briefly but was not the focus of their bilateral meeting. “I’m not the trade negotiator,” he said. “And neither is the foreign minister. So I’ll leave that to our teams. But yes, they want a good deal, and so do we.”&nbsp;Rubio also confirmed that he had a brief follow-up with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov but declined to elaborate, saying only that it concerned a “different topic” than their meeting the day before. He acknowledged that President Trump is expected to make an announcement on Russia soon but declined to preview it.&nbsp;Turning to Ukraine, Rubio explained that new efforts are underway through NATO to deliver existing US-made defense systems — like Patriot batteries — to Ukraine, with the US helping allies restock their arsenals. “It’s faster, it’s more efficient,” he said. “Some of the systems Ukraine needs are in Europe already. Let’s move them, then backfill as needed.”&nbsp;Ultimately, Rubio said the administration’s economic strategy is about more than trade figures or tariffs — it’s about long-term national security, industrial capacity, and strategic independence. “We’re not trying to shut the world out,” he said. “But we are trying to stop being dangerously dependent on one or two countries for critical things. It’s not just about bringing jobs back. It’s about being strong, safe, and self-reliant again.”&nbsp;As he wrapped up, Rubio pushed back on suggestions that the US has lost interest in the Indo-Pacific, noting that headlines often misrepresent the intensity of American engagement abroad. “Everywhere I go, the story is: the US isn’t focused enough,” he said. “But look at the facts. We’re here. We’re doing the work. And we’re not walking away — we’re building something stronger.”

Marco Rubio defends global tariff reset, calls it ‘long overdue’

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio strongly defended the Trump administration’s sweeping global tariff reset, calling it a “long overdue” correction to decades of imbalanced trade that he says has undermined American industry and national security. Speaking during a diplomatic tour of Southeast Asia, Rubio described the tariff overhaul — set to take effect August 1 — as a necessary global realignment, not an act of economic aggression. “There’s no country in the world where the issue of trade and tariffs wouldn’t come up,” Rubio said at a press conference in Kuala Lumpur. “But this is not about punishing anyone. It’s about fairness for American workers. It’s about fixing a system that hasn’t worked for decades.” Rubio’s message comes as trading partners across the Indo-Pacific express concern over Washington’s aggressive recalibration of tariffs. Vietnam, Japan, Malaysia, and others have warned of disruptions to long-established supply chains and mutual agreements. But Rubio pushed back on these concerns, arguing that many of America’s partners have benefited from lopsided trade dynamics, and that a reset is both fair and inevitable. “If we were targeting just a few countries, I could understand the backlash,” he said. “But this is global. Virtually every trade relationship is being reassessed. And if your economy is built on massive surpluses with the United States, of course you don’t want that to change — but it has to.” Rubio cited America’s ballooning trade deficits and the erosion of its domestic manufacturing capabilities as key reasons for the tariff reset. He pointed to sectors like shipbuilding, rare earth processing, and pharmaceuticals — industries that have either been outsourced or concentrated in adversarial regions — as examples of vulnerabilities the US can no longer afford. “It’s not just an economic issue. It’s a national security issue,” he said. “We need to be able to make things — not just for jobs, but for resilience. We’ve lost that edge, and it’s time to bring it back.” The secretary also addressed his much-anticipated meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, which he characterised as “constructive and positive.” While Rubio made clear that this was not a negotiation, he said the discussion laid the groundwork for future engagement on both contentious and cooperative fronts. “These are two big, powerful countries. There will always be disagreements,” he said. “But we have to keep talking. We have to communicate. And I thought today’s meeting was a good start.” Rubio confirmed that preparations are underway for a potential meeting between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping later this year, saying “the odds are high” that it will happen because both leaders are eager to engage. “Now it’s about getting the atmosphere and deliverables right,” he added. “We don’t want a meeting just for optics — we want results.” When asked about Taiwan, Rubio said the issue was not raised in a confrontational manner and emphasized that the meeting with Wang Yi was not one where “warnings” were issued. “They know our position. We know theirs. This was not about theatrics. This was about tone and trust.” Rubio also addressed criticism from some quarters that the tariff strategy could alienate allies and give China an opportunity to present itself as a more stable trade partner. He flatly rejected that narrative, saying America’s relationships in the region are far deeper than just economics. “We’re not walking away from our friends,” he said. “In fact, we’re doubling down. Look at what we’ve done just this week — agreements with Malaysia on civil nuclear cooperation, and an arrangement coming into force with Thailand. These are real steps, not rhetoric.” Rubio dismissed suggestions that US pressure on Japan to increase defense spending could strain bilateral ties, calling such expectations “encouragement” rather than demands. “We support Japan enhancing its capabilities within its constitutional limits. That’s not something we’re pushing against — it’s something we’re for,” he said, noting that Japan remains one of America’s closest allies. On Vietnam, another key US partner with a large trade surplus, Rubio said the issue of tariff levels came up briefly but was not the focus of their bilateral meeting. “I’m not the trade negotiator,” he said. “And neither is the foreign minister. So I’ll leave that to our teams. But yes, they want a good deal, and so do we.” Rubio also confirmed that he had a brief follow-up with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov but declined to elaborate, saying only that it concerned a “different topic” than their meeting the day before. He acknowledged that President Trump is expected to make an announcement on Russia soon but declined to preview it. Turning to Ukraine, Rubio explained that new efforts are underway through NATO to deliver existing US-made defense systems — like Patriot batteries — to Ukraine, with the US helping allies restock their arsenals. “It’s faster, it’s more efficient,” he said. “Some of the systems Ukraine needs are in Europe already. Let’s move them, then backfill as needed.” Ultimately, Rubio said the administration’s economic strategy is about more than trade figures or tariffs — it’s about long-term national security, industrial capacity, and strategic independence. “We’re not trying to shut the world out,” he said. “But we are trying to stop being dangerously dependent on one or two countries for critical things. It’s not just about bringing jobs back. It’s about being strong, safe, and self-reliant again.” As he wrapped up, Rubio pushed back on suggestions that the US has lost interest in the Indo-Pacific, noting that headlines often misrepresent the intensity of American engagement abroad. “Everywhere I go, the story is: the US isn’t focused enough,” he said. “But look at the facts. We’re here. We’re doing the work. And we’re not walking away — we’re building something stronger.”

After talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, US Secretary of State said that chances are high for a Xi-Trump meeting as both sides want to see it happen

Donald Trump on Monday (July 7) said the US will be sending more weapons to Ukraine to defend their homeland. This remark comes days after America was considering pausing the deliveries of critical weapons, citing a decline in the stockpile. Trump is now changing the US stance to Biden-era policies after being frustrated with Putin. The switch in the US’s stand came after the Pentagon announced holding deliveries of weapons like air defense missiles, precision-guided artillery and other ammunition. The comments were made by officials after they said the country’s stockpiles have declined too much. And now Trump said, “We have to.” As he believes Kyiv would need weapons to defend amid an intensified Russian offensive.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-atrocious-and-embarrassing-trump-makes-typos-and-errors-in-tariff-letters-to-world-leaders-see-what-he-wrote-1751972050170">'Atrocious and embarrassing': Trump makes typos and errors in tariff letters to world leaders - See what he wrote</a> “They have to be able to defend themselves. They’re getting hit very hard now. We’re going to send some more weapons — defensive weapons primarily,” he added. This comes at a time when Ukraine has been facing a barrage of missiles, which have heavily injured the civilian population. The conflict has been on for over three years now.&nbsp;Ukrainian officials and other allies were taken by surprise after the US decided to abruptly pause shipments of Patriot missiles, precision-guided GMLRS, Hellfire missiles and Howitzer rounds and weaponry.&nbsp;Late on Monday night, the Pentagon announced that at Trump’s instructions, the weapons shipments to Ukraine will resume. This is being done “to ensure the Ukrainians can defend themselves while we work to secure a lasting peace and ensure the killing stops.”&nbsp;Spokesman Sean Parnell said that as part of “America First” defense priorities, the framework for Trump to evaluate military shipments worldwide continues. While hosting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump expressed his growing frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin. After announcing a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, Trump is looking to pause the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donald Trump on Monday (July 7) said the US will be sending more weapons to Ukraine to defend their homeland. This remark comes days after America was considering pausing the deliveries of critical weapons, citing a decline in the stockpile.

Donald Trump on Monday (July 7) said the US will be sending more weapons to Ukraine to defend their homeland. This remark comes days after America was considering pausing the deliveries of critical weapons, citing a decline in the stockpile. Trump is now changing the US stance to Biden-era policies after being frustrated with Putin. The switch in the US’s stand came after the Pentagon announced holding deliveries of weapons like air defense missiles, precision-guided artillery and other ammunition. The comments were made by officials after they said the country’s stockpiles have declined too much. And now Trump said, “We have to.” As he believes Kyiv would need weapons to defend amid an intensified Russian offensive. Also read: 'Atrocious and embarrassing': Trump makes typos and errors in tariff letters to world leaders - See what he wrote “They have to be able to defend themselves. They’re getting hit very hard now. We’re going to send some more weapons — defensive weapons primarily,” he added. This comes at a time when Ukraine has been facing a barrage of missiles, which have heavily injured the civilian population. The conflict has been on for over three years now. Ukrainian officials and other allies were taken by surprise after the US decided to abruptly pause shipments of Patriot missiles, precision-guided GMLRS, Hellfire missiles and Howitzer rounds and weaponry. Late on Monday night, the Pentagon announced that at Trump’s instructions, the weapons shipments to Ukraine will resume. This is being done “to ensure the Ukrainians can defend themselves while we work to secure a lasting peace and ensure the killing stops.” Spokesman Sean Parnell said that as part of “America First” defense priorities, the framework for Trump to evaluate military shipments worldwide continues. While hosting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump expressed his growing frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin. After announcing a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, Trump is looking to pause the war in Ukraine.

Donald Trump on Monday (July 7) said the US will be sending more weapons to Ukraine to defend their homeland. This remark comes days after America was considering pausing the deliveries of critical weapons, citing a decline in the stockpile.

Trump goes back to Biden-era policies after being frustrated with Putin

Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence tool Grok, designed to curb misinformation on X (formerly Twitter), blamed its own creator and the Trump administration for the devastating floods in Texas. In response to a user asking who was to blame for the 27 girls still missing at Camp Mystic, Grok said, “Trump’s NOAA cuts, pushed by Musk’s DOGE, slashed funding 30% and staff 17%, underestimating rainfall by 50% and delaying alerts. This contributed to the floods killing 27, including ~20 Camp Mystic girls. Facts over feelings.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-launches-america-party-after-rift-with-trump-is-this-the-end-of-us-two-party-system-1751746649569">'To give you back your freedom': Elon Musk launches ‘America Party’ after rift with Trump - Is this the end of US two-party system?</a><h2>Forecasting failures linked to staffing cuts</h2>Officials in Texas say the National Weather Service (NWS), which is part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), failed to properly warn residents of Kerr County before the storm. At least 51 people have died, and the toll may rise.The NWS was among the agencies affected by budget cuts introduced by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a Trump-era initiative led by Elon Musk. DOGE’s focus on streamlining government resulted in a 17% staff reduction at NOAA, with roughly 600 employees let go. Now, Grok, a creation of Musk’s xAI, is openly calling out these decisions. One post read, “Trump’s NOAA cuts impaired flood warnings, contributing to deaths. Facts aren’t woke; they’re just facts.”<h2>White House caught in Grok’s line of fire</h2>Even White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt was not spared. After she shared a message from Trump offering prayers for the victims, Grok responded to users pointing out the deeper issue, “Climate models from IPCC and NOAA project more intense flooding in Texas due to warmer air holding more moisture, exacerbating events like this. Ignoring it, regardless of politics, won’t stop the trend; global emissions cuts are needed.”<h2>Musk slams Grok for being “too woke”</h2>This isn’t the first time Grok has embarrassed Musk. The billionaire previously criticised the AI bot, saying it had become “too woke.” In response, he announced that Grok 4 would soon be released and would “rewrite the entire corpus of human knowledge.” While AI still often provides misleading or inaccurate answers, in this case, however, other experts have supported Grok’s claims. Analysts say the budget cuts to NOAA and the NWS left Texas unprepared for such extreme&nbsp;flooding.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">God damn. Grok just said, “yep, Trump and Elon killed those girls.”&mdash; ryjkyj (@ryjkyj) <a href="https://twitter.com/ryjkyj/status/1941505977238606218?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Officials in Texas say the National Weather Service (NWS), which is part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), failed to properly warn residents of Kerr County before the storm. At least 51 people have died, and the toll may rise.

Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence tool Grok, designed to curb misinformation on X (formerly Twitter), blamed its own creator and the Trump administration for the devastating floods in Texas. In response to a user asking who was to blame for the 27 girls still missing at Camp Mystic, Grok said, “Trump’s NOAA cuts, pushed by Musk’s DOGE, slashed funding 30% and staff 17%, underestimating rainfall by 50% and delaying alerts. This contributed to the floods killing 27, including ~20 Camp Mystic girls. Facts over feelings.” Also read: 'To give you back your freedom': Elon Musk launches ‘America Party’ after rift with Trump - Is this the end of US two-party system? Forecasting failures linked to staffing cuts Officials in Texas say the National Weather Service (NWS), which is part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), failed to properly warn residents of Kerr County before the storm. At least 51 people have died, and the toll may rise. The NWS was among the agencies affected by budget cuts introduced by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a Trump-era initiative led by Elon Musk. DOGE’s focus on streamlining government resulted in a 17% staff reduction at NOAA, with roughly 600 employees let go. Now, Grok, a creation of Musk’s xAI, is openly calling out these decisions. One post read, “Trump’s NOAA cuts impaired flood warnings, contributing to deaths. Facts aren’t woke; they’re just facts.” White House caught in Grok’s line of fire Even White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt was not spared. After she shared a message from Trump offering prayers for the victims, Grok responded to users pointing out the deeper issue, “Climate models from IPCC and NOAA project more intense flooding in Texas due to warmer air holding more moisture, exacerbating events like this. Ignoring it, regardless of politics, won’t stop the trend; global emissions cuts are needed.” Musk slams Grok for being “too woke” This isn’t the first time Grok has embarrassed Musk. The billionaire previously criticised the AI bot, saying it had become “too woke.” In response, he announced that Grok 4 would soon be released and would “rewrite the entire corpus of human knowledge.” While AI still often provides misleading or inaccurate answers, in this case, however, other experts have supported Grok’s claims. Analysts say the budget cuts to NOAA and the NWS left Texas unprepared for such extreme flooding.

Officials in Texas say the National Weather Service (NWS), which is part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), failed to properly warn residents of Kerr County before the storm. At least 51 people have died, and the toll may rise.

‘Facts over feelings’: Elon Musk’s own AI Grok blames him and Trump for deadly Texas floods that killed at least 51

US President Donald Trump, in his initial reaction after the 'big beautiful bill' was passed in the House, said, 'biggest tax cut in history, great for security, great on the southern border'. Ever since he assumed office for his second term earlier this year in January, the president has been extremely vocal about his immigration policy and cutting government spending. This bill has been the most crucial for him and his administration.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;I think when you go over the bill, it was very easy to get them to a &#39;Yes.&#39; ... Biggest tax cut in history, great for security, great on the southern border ... we covered just about everything. Again, it&#39;s the biggest bill ever signed of its kind.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/0nfeQ5IDuo">pic.twitter.com/0nfeQ5IDuo</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1940882245482676660?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Talking to reporters, he said, "We are celebrating the biggest bill of its kind ever signed — and it's going to make this country into a rocket ship. It's going to be really great."He added, "I think when you go over the bill, it was very easy to get them to a 'Yes.' We won over the bill... the biggest tax cut in history, great for security, great on the southern border. Immigration is covered; we covered just about everything. Again, it's the biggest bill ever signed of its kind."&nbsp;The 'big beautiful bill' will allocate over $150 billion for the Trump administration to carry out mass deportation operations. About $75 billion will be spent on expanding the capacity of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention centre, and another $50 billion to be allocated for beefing up border security measures.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-magic-minute-speech-democratic-leader-jeffries-delays-house-vote-on-trump-s-big-beautiful-bill-1751559099269">Another 'magic minute' speech? Democratic Leader Jeffries's speech crosses '8 hours', delays vote on Trump's 'big, beautiful bill'</a>&nbsp;Before the bill was passed, Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries delivered a record speech went stretched over eight hours. This move comes as a protest against Trump's touted bill and in turn also delayed the voting procedure."Republicans are trying to jam this one, big, ugly bill down the throats of the American people. Leadership requires courage, conviction, compassion — and yet what we have seen from this administration and co-conspirators on the Republican side of the aisle is cruelty, chaos, and corruption," he said as emphasised the ramifications of the bill.&nbsp;The lower chamber voted 218 to 214 to approve the bill. President Trump will be signing the bill into law at 5 PM (EST) in a ceremony on July 4. &nbsp;

US President Donald Trump, in his initial reaction after the 'big beautiful bill' was passed in the House, said, 'biggest tax cut in history, great for security, great on the southern border'.

US President Donald Trump, in his initial reaction after the 'big beautiful bill' was passed in the House, said, 'biggest tax cut in history, great for security, great on the southern border'. Ever since he assumed office for his second term earlier this year in January, the president has been extremely vocal about his immigration policy and cutting government spending. This bill has been the most crucial for him and his administration.

US President Donald Trump, in his initial reaction after the 'big beautiful bill' was passed in the House, said, 'biggest tax cut in history, great for security, great on the southern border'.

'Going to make America into a rocket ship': Trump's first reaction after US House passes 'Big Beautiful Bill'

Russian leader Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump were on a phone call, the Kremlin said on Thursday. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian news agencies that the telephone conversation was “ongoing now”.&nbsp;Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi denied reports of Iran suspending cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), calling it "fake news".&nbsp;Click on the headlines for more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-on-a-phone-call-with-trump-says-kremlin-1751557433053">Russian President Putin on a phone call with Trump, says Kremlin</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751558005951.jpg?zoom=0.9&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Russian President Putin on a phone call with Trump, says Kremlin"></figure>&nbsp;Russian leader Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump were on a phone call, the Kremlin said on Thursday. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian news agencies that the telephone conversation was “ongoing now”. It was the sixth publicly disclosed conversation between the two leaders this year. The call comes amid mounting scrutiny over US support for Ukraine, as the Pentagon confirmed a pause in some military aid shipments.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-fake-news-iran-denies-ending-iaea-cooperation-lashes-out-at-germany-for-supporting-israel-and-us-1751551200344">'Fake news': Iran denies ending cooperation with IAEA, lashes out at Germany for supporting Israel and US</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751551778763.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'Fake news': Iran denies ending cooperation with IAEA, lashes out at Germany for supporting Israel and US"></figure>&nbsp;A day after reports of Iran suspending cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi called it "fake news", saying that Tehran remains committed to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and has not ended cooperation with the IAEA.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quadcopters-interceptors-and-drones-ukraine-signs-deal-with-us-firm-to-fight-against-russia-s-raging-war-what-all-does-it-include-1751553327556">'Quadcopters, interceptors and drones': Ukraine signs deal with US firm to fight against Russia's raging war - What all does it include?</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751553544549.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'Quadcopters, interceptors and drones': Ukraine signs deal with US firm to fight against Russia's raging war - What all does it include?"></figure>&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (July 3) signed a drone deal with an American firm during his visit to Denmark, amid the ongoing war with Russia. This comes after the White House halted the delivery of some air defence interceptors and precision-guided bombs and missiles to Ukraine, citing that US weapons stocks are running low.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chicago-mass-shooting-4-killed-14-injured-after-gunman-opens-fire-on-crowd-what-we-know-1751540742884">Chicago mass shooting: 4 killed, 14 injured after gunman opens fire on crowd | What we know</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751541296645.jpg?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Chicago mass shooting: 4 killed, 14 injured after gunman opens fire on crowd | What we know"></figure>&nbsp;Four people were killed and 14 others were injured in a mass shooting in Chicago on Wednesday (Jul 2) night, said police. The horrific incident took place outside a nightclub in the River North neighbourhood, on the 300 block of West Chicago Avenue. Reportedly, around 11 pm, a vehicle drove past the Artis Lounge, and three people opened fire on a crowd standing outside.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/politically-motivated-cyberattack-hacktivist-stole-data-of-2-5-mn-columbia-university-students-employees-1751548985458">Politically motivated cyberattack? 'Hacktivist' stole data of 2.5 mn Columbia University students, employees</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751549806061.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Politically motivated cyberattack? 'Hacktivist' stole data of 2.5 mn Columbia University students, employees"></figure>&nbsp;More than two million people linked to Columbia University were attacked by a seasoned "hacktivist", who reportedly stole sensitive data from the students, applicants, and employees of the Ivy League University. The officials believe this cyberattack to be politically motivated.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-5-dead-many-missing-after-ferry-capsizes-off-bali-coast-rescue-ops-on-1751555789578">At least 5 dead, many missing after ferry capsizes off Bali coast, rescue ops on</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751556139059.jpg?zoom=1&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="At least 5 dead, many missing after ferry capsizes off Bali coast, rescue ops on"></figure>&nbsp;Five people are reported dead and many still missing after a ferry capsized overnight in rough seas off Indonesia’s resort island of Bali. Thirty-five of the 65 passengers on the boat were rescued, while the remaining 25 are missing. Many of them were found unconscious after drifting in choppy waters for hours, said the local police chief. The ferry was carrying 53 passengers, 12 crew members, and 22 vehicles, including 14 trucks, when it capsized shortly before midnight on Wednesday.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beaten-starved-and-tortured-kilmar-abrego-garcia-reveals-shocking-details-of-treatment-in-el-salvador-prison-1751551585111">Beaten, starved, and tortured: Kilmar Abrego Garcia reveals SHOCKING details of treatment in El Salvador prison</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751551861629.jpg?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Beaten, starved, and tortured: Kilmar Abrego Garcia reveals SHOCKING details of treatment in El Salvador prison"></figure>&nbsp;Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was mistakenly deported by the Trump administration in March, has revealed shocking details of treatment in the El Salvador prison after his return. Abrego Garcia returned to the United States on June 6. In a legal filing on Wednesday (Jul 2), he alleged that he was beaten, starved, and tortured after being sent to the El Salvador prison.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/viral-tsunami-rumour-is-hoax-says-japan-meteorological-agencyt-1751546760004">Viral tsunami rumour is hoax says Japan Meteorological Agency</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751550802738.jpg?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Viral tsunami rumour is hoax says Japan Meteorological Agency"></figure>&nbsp;Japan's meteorological agency on Thursday put the rumours of an earthquake to rest by saying that it was all unscientific and a "hoax".Japan Meteorological Agency's Earthquake and Tsunami Observations Division said that it is impossible to predict the exact time, location or magnitude of an earthquake. Notably, the prediction of Ryo Tatsuki's Manga comic that “a crack will open up under the seabed between Japan and the Philippines” was gaining absurd mileage.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/coolie-first-look-poster-of-aamir-khan-as-dahaa-from-rajinikanth-s-upcoming-film-is-out-1751552925044">Coolie: First look poster of Aamir Khan as Dahaa from Rajinikanth's upcoming film is out</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751554107789.png?zoom=0.9&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Coolie: First look poster of Aamir Khan as Dahaa from Rajinikanth's upcoming film is out"></figure>&nbsp;Since the announcement that Bollywood star Aamir Khan will make his Tamil debut in Rajinikanth’s upcoming film Coolie, fans have been eagerly awaiting the first look poster, and now it’s here. Sun Pictures has unveiled a new poster from the film featuring Aamir Khan’s character, Dahaa.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-eng-shubman-gill-now-first-india-skipper-to-score-test-double-ton-in-england-surpassing-greats-like-kohli-and-ganguly-1751549669835">IND vs ENG: Shubman Gill does what even Kohli couldn't do, joins elite list of visiting skippers</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250703/image-1751549762067.jpg?rect=(0,120,1440,1080)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="IND vs ENG: Shubman Gill does what even Kohli couldn't do, joins elite list of visiting skippers"></figure>&nbsp;India Test skipper Shubman Gill has become the first Indian skipper to score a double ton in Tests against England in England. He reached the milestone on day 2 (Jul 3) of the ongoing second Test at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Overall, Gill is also only the third Indian player ever to score a Test double ton in England behind Sunil Gavaskar (in 1979) and Rahul Dravid (in 2002). Among all visiting teams, Gill's only seventh skipper to score a Test double ton against England in England.&nbsp;

Stay updated with our selection of the top international stories, delivering essential news and analysis from across the world to keep you in the loop.

Russian leader Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump were on a phone call, the Kremlin said on Thursday. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian news agencies that the telephone conversation was “ongoing now”. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi denied reports of Iran suspending cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), calling it "fake news". Click on the headlines for more Russian President Putin on a phone call with Trump, says Kremlin Russian leader Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump were on a phone call, the Kremlin said on Thursday. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian news agencies that the telephone conversation was “ongoing now”. It was the sixth publicly disclosed conversation between the two leaders this year. The call comes amid mounting scrutiny over US support for Ukraine, as the Pentagon confirmed a pause in some military aid shipments. 'Fake news': Iran denies ending cooperation with IAEA, lashes out at Germany for supporting Israel and US A day after reports of Iran suspending cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi called it "fake news", saying that Tehran remains committed to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and has not ended cooperation with the IAEA. 'Quadcopters, interceptors and drones': Ukraine signs deal with US firm to fight against Russia's raging war - What all does it include? Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (July 3) signed a drone deal with an American firm during his visit to Denmark, amid the ongoing war with Russia. This comes after the White House halted the delivery of some air defence interceptors and precision-guided bombs and missiles to Ukraine, citing that US weapons stocks are running low. Chicago mass shooting: 4 killed, 14 injured after gunman opens fire on crowd | What we know Four people were killed and 14 others were injured in a mass shooting in Chicago on Wednesday (Jul 2) night, said police. The horrific incident took place outside a nightclub in the River North neighbourhood, on the 300 block of West Chicago Avenue. Reportedly, around 11 pm, a vehicle drove past the Artis Lounge, and three people opened fire on a crowd standing outside. Politically motivated cyberattack? 'Hacktivist' stole data of 2.5 mn Columbia University students, employees More than two million people linked to Columbia University were attacked by a seasoned "hacktivist", who reportedly stole sensitive data from the students, applicants, and employees of the Ivy League University. The officials believe this cyberattack to be politically motivated. At least 5 dead, many missing after ferry capsizes off Bali coast, rescue ops on Five people are reported dead and many still missing after a ferry capsized overnight in rough seas off Indonesia’s resort island of Bali. Thirty-five of the 65 passengers on the boat were rescued, while the remaining 25 are missing. Many of them were found unconscious after drifting in choppy waters for hours, said the local police chief. The ferry was carrying 53 passengers, 12 crew members, and 22 vehicles, including 14 trucks, when it capsized shortly before midnight on Wednesday. Beaten, starved, and tortured: Kilmar Abrego Garcia reveals SHOCKING details of treatment in El Salvador prison Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was mistakenly deported by the Trump administration in March, has revealed shocking details of treatment in the El Salvador prison after his return. Abrego Garcia returned to the United States on June 6. In a legal filing on Wednesday (Jul 2), he alleged that he was beaten, starved, and tortured after being sent to the El Salvador prison. Viral tsunami rumour is hoax says Japan Meteorological Agency Japan's meteorological agency on Thursday put the rumours of an earthquake to rest by saying that it was all unscientific and a "hoax".Japan Meteorological Agency's Earthquake and Tsunami Observations Division said that it is impossible to predict the exact time, location or magnitude of an earthquake. Notably, the prediction of Ryo Tatsuki's Manga comic that “a crack will open up under the seabed between Japan and the Philippines” was gaining absurd mileage. Coolie: First look poster of Aamir Khan as Dahaa from Rajinikanth's upcoming film is out Since the announcement that Bollywood star Aamir Khan will make his Tamil debut in Rajinikanth’s upcoming film Coolie, fans have been eagerly awaiting the first look poster, and now it’s here. Sun Pictures has unveiled a new poster from the film featuring Aamir Khan’s character, Dahaa. IND vs ENG: Shubman Gill does what even Kohli couldn't do, joins elite list of visiting skippers India Test skipper Shubman Gill has become the first Indian skipper to score a double ton in Tests against England in England. He reached the milestone on day 2 (Jul 3) of the ongoing second Test at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Overall, Gill is also only the third Indian player ever to score a Test double ton in England behind Sunil Gavaskar (in 1979) and Rahul Dravid (in 2002). Among all visiting teams, Gill's only seventh skipper to score a Test double ton against England in England.

Stay updated with our selection of the top international stories, delivering essential news and analysis from across the world to keep you in the loop.

Top 10 world news: Trump, Putin hold phone call; Iran denies ending cooperation with IAEA, and more

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday (Jul 3) reiterated that the ceasefire understanding between India and Pakistan in May was the result of negotiations between the DGMOs of the two countries and not from any trade talks with the United States, dismissing claims made by US President Donald Trump. The Republican leader has said that he brokered a ceasefire understanding between the two neighbours using trade following military escalation after India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 in response to the deadly Pahalagam terror attack.&nbsp;Speaking in a press conference in Washington during his three-day US visit, Jaishankar said, “The record of what happened at that time was very clear and the ceasefire was something which was negotiated between the DGMOs of the two countries.” He added, “I will leave it at that.”&nbsp;Earlier this week, the EAM told Newsweek that he was “in the room” when US Vice President JD Vance spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 9. He added that Vance told PM Modi that Pakistan would launch a massive attack on India if they did not accept certain things. PM Modi indicated that India would not remain silent and would respond accordingly.&nbsp;“In terms of what has been our position, yes, we have for many years it’s not a position just of this government in Delhi, I mean it’s been a national consensus that our dealings with Pakistan are bilateral and in this particular case, I can tell you that when I was in the room when Vice President Vance spoke to Prime Minister Modi on the night of 9th May saying that you know the Pakistanis would launch a very massive assault on India if we did not accept certain things and the prime minister was impervious to what the Pakistanis were threatening to do on the contrary he (PM Modi) indicated that there would be a response from us this was the night before.” Jaishankar said in the interview.&nbsp;“Something the Pakistanis did was attack us massively that night, we responded very quickly thereafter, and the next morning, Mr Rubio called me up and said the Pakistanis were ready to talk. So, I can only tell you from my personal experience what happened,” he said.&nbsp;Despite India’s denial, Trump has consistently claimed he brokered the peace between India and Pakistan. On May 10, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced that Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) spoke with his Indian counterpart, and both sides agreed to stop all military actions on land, in the air, and at sea.&nbsp;Indian Armed Forces on May 7 launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in retaliation for the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pagalgam that killed 26 civilians.

Earlier this week, the EAM told Newsweek that he was “in the room” when US Vice President JD Vance spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 9. He added that Vance told PM Modi that Pakistan would launch a massive attack on India if they did not accept certain things.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday (Jul 3) reiterated that the ceasefire understanding between India and Pakistan in May was the result of negotiations between the DGMOs of the two countries and not from any trade talks with the United States, dismissing claims made by US President Donald Trump. The Republican leader has said that he brokered a ceasefire understanding between the two neighbours using trade following military escalation after India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 in response to the deadly Pahalagam terror attack. Speaking in a press conference in Washington during his three-day US visit, Jaishankar said, “The record of what happened at that time was very clear and the ceasefire was something which was negotiated between the DGMOs of the two countries.” He added, “I will leave it at that.” Earlier this week, the EAM told Newsweek that he was “in the room” when US Vice President JD Vance spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 9. He added that Vance told PM Modi that Pakistan would launch a massive attack on India if they did not accept certain things. PM Modi indicated that India would not remain silent and would respond accordingly. “In terms of what has been our position, yes, we have for many years it’s not a position just of this government in Delhi, I mean it’s been a national consensus that our dealings with Pakistan are bilateral and in this particular case, I can tell you that when I was in the room when Vice President Vance spoke to Prime Minister Modi on the night of 9th May saying that you know the Pakistanis would launch a very massive assault on India if we did not accept certain things and the prime minister was impervious to what the Pakistanis were threatening to do on the contrary he (PM Modi) indicated that there would be a response from us this was the night before.” Jaishankar said in the interview. “Something the Pakistanis did was attack us massively that night, we responded very quickly thereafter, and the next morning, Mr Rubio called me up and said the Pakistanis were ready to talk. So, I can only tell you from my personal experience what happened,” he said. Despite India’s denial, Trump has consistently claimed he brokered the peace between India and Pakistan. On May 10, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced that Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) spoke with his Indian counterpart, and both sides agreed to stop all military actions on land, in the air, and at sea. Indian Armed Forces on May 7 launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in retaliation for the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pagalgam that killed 26 civilians.

Earlier this week, the EAM told Newsweek that he was “in the room” when US Vice President JD Vance spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 9. He added that Vance told PM Modi that Pakistan would launch a massive attack on India if they did not accept certain things.

‘Record of what happened very clear’: Jaishankar again denies Trump’s claims on India-Pak ceasefire

US President Donald Trump toured a new immigration detention center - dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz” - which is surrounded by alligator-filled swamps in the Florida Everglades. Trump and his team suggests that it could be a model for future lockups in USA

US President Donald Trump toured a new immigration detention center - dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz” - which is surrounded by alligator-filled swamps in the Florida Everglades. Trump and his team suggests that it could be a model for future lockups in USA

Trump tours 'Alligator Alcatraz' detention centre: Bunk beds, fenced-in cells, real alligators and protests - INSIDE pics here

The United States Senate has entered the longest vote-a-rama in its history as lawmakers debate President Donald Trump’s sweeping tax and spending package, officially titled the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill.’&nbsp;&nbsp;President Donald Trump has suggested that immigration authorities could be directed to investigate Elon Musk after the billionaire renewed his criticism of the administration’s flagship tax-and-spending package, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, now before the Senate.&nbsp;Click on the headlines for more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vote-on-trump-s-big-beautiful-bill-underway-vote-a-rama-becomes-longest-in-senate-history-what-is-vote-a-rama-explained-1751381241892">Vote on Trump’s ‘big, beautiful bill’ underway: ‘Vote-a-rama’ becomes longest in Senate history - What is Vote-a-rama? | Explained</a> &nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250701/image-1751381488622.jpg?rect=(0,337,3335,2502)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Vote on Trump’s ‘big, beautiful bill’ underway: ‘Vote-a-rama’ becomes longest in Senate history - What is Vote-a-rama? | Explained"></figure>&nbsp;The United States Senate has entered the longest vote-a-rama in its history as lawmakers debate President Donald Trump’s sweeping tax and spending package, officially titled the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill.’ By Tuesday, Senators had voted on 45 separate amendments and procedural motions, breaking the previous record of 44 votes during a budget resolution debate back in 2008. The rapid-fire session, which started on Monday afternoon, ran into the early hours of Tuesday.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doge-to-investigate-dogefather-trump-says-doge-monster-should-eat-musk-amid-row-over-one-big-beautiful-bill-1751373603423">DOGE to investigate 'Dogefather'? Trump says 'DOGE monster should eat Musk' amid row over 'One Big Beautiful Bill'</a> &nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250701/image-1751373731460.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="DOGE to investigate 'Dogefather'? Trump says 'DOGE monster should eat Musk' amid row over 'One Big Beautiful Bill'"></figure>&nbsp;President Donald Trump has suggested that immigration authorities could be directed to investigate Elon Musk after the billionaire renewed his criticism of the administration’s flagship tax-and-spending package, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, now before the Senate.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-wants-to-return-kidnapped-trump-hints-at-israel-hamas-ceasefire-next-week-says-will-talk-to-netanyahu-about-it-1751373846288">'Silent move &amp; silent watch': Ukraine becomes first country to receive 20 new Rheinmetall Ermine vehicles - Why they're so special?</a> &nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250701/image-1751374228493.jpeg?rect=(0,39,772,579)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'Silent move &amp; silent watch': Ukraine becomes first country to receive 20 new Rheinmetall Ermine vehicles - Why they're so special?"></figure>&nbsp;Ukraine will be receiving new Rheinmetall Ermine vehicles, financed by the Dutch Defence Ministry. The German defense manufacturer Rheinmetall made this announcement on June 25, after a contract was signed during the NATO Summit in The Hague.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-14-million-people-could-die-trump-s-us-aid-cuts-could-affect-millions-after-musk-puts-usaid-through-the-woodchipper-1751383066410">Over 14 million people could die? Trump's US aid cuts could affect millions after Musk puts USAID 'through the woodchipper'</a> &nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250701/image-1751383472823.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Over 14 million people could die? Trump's US aid cuts could affect millions after Musk puts USAID 'through the woodchipper'"></figure>&nbsp;As US President Donald Trump's US Agency for International Development (USAID) funding cuts, a study highlighted that more than 14 million of the world's most vulnerable people could die by 2030 because of Trump's cuts.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-heatwave-spain-portugal-record-hottest-june-ever-wildfires-rage-in-turkey-1751381005595">Europe heatwave: Spain, Portugal record hottest June ever, wildfires rage in Turkey</a> &nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250701/image-1751381366843.jpg?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Europe heatwave: Spain, Portugal record hottest June ever, wildfires rage in Turkey"></figure>&nbsp;Extreme heat has gripped Europe as tens of millions of people brace for more days of dangerous temperatures. Several nations, including France, Italy, and the UK, are experiencing severe conditions as sweltering heat has brought record high temperatures. Spain and Portugal recorded their hottest June ever as the hot weather continues gripping the continent. According to the Portuguese meteorological service, the country recorded a record high temperature of 46.6 degrees Celsius in June. Meanwhile, tens of thousands of people are facing evacuation due to raging wildfires in the western parts of Turkey.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-510-million-arms-sale-to-israel-as-aid-hits-record-high-who-are-winning-big-in-us-1751369688196">US approves $510 million arms sale to Israel as aid hits record high, who are winning big in US</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250701/image-1751372881137.jpg?zoom=0.9&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="US approves $510 million arms sale to Israel as aid hits record high, who are winning big in US"></figure>&nbsp;The United States Department of State has approved the sale of $510 million of arms to Israel on June 30. Thus paving the way for the procurement of 7,000 Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM) for the Israeli Defence Force (IDF). This includes 3,845 KMU-558B/B kits for BLU-109 bombs and 3,280 KMU-572 F/B kits for MK 82 bombs, along with logistics and technical support services.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-now-92-jailed-for-rape-and-murder-of-elderly-woman-in-1967-in-one-of-the-oldest-cold-cases-solved-1751371551705">British man, 92, jailed for rape and murder of elderly woman in one of the oldest cold cases solved</a> &nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250701/image-1751372677313.jpg?zoom=0.7&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="British man, 92, jailed for rape and murder of elderly woman in one of the oldest cold cases solved"></figure>&nbsp;A man, now 92, has been sentenced to life in prison for the rape and murder of a 75-year-old widow in the 1960s, in what appears to be the UK’s longest-running cold case ever solved. The court told the man that he will die in prison. Ryland Headley was 34 when he forced open a window at the home of Louisa Dunne, 75, in the Easton area of Bristol in June 1967 before attacking her. Nearly six decades later, Headley was finally sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 20 years after a jury at Bristol Crown Court found him guilty of both charges on Monday afternoon.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hope-for-israel-hamas-ceasefire-netanyahu-to-visit-us-next-week-to-meet-trump-what-we-know-1751370226110">Hope for Israel-Hamas ceasefire? Netanyahu to visit US next week to meet Trump - What we know</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250701/image-1751370383700.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Hope for Israel-Hamas ceasefire? Netanyahu to visit US next week to meet Trump - What we know"></figure>&nbsp;Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be meeting US President Donald Trump and other administration officials next week, according to US officials. This comes as the White House pushes Israel and Hamas for a hostage and ceasefire deal. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/heads-of-state-movie-review-john-cena-idris-elba-and-priyanka-chopra-shine-in-an-otherwise-passable-action-flick-1751370406101">Heads of State Movie Review: John Cena, Idris Elba and Priyanka Chopra Shine in an otherwise passable action flick</a> &nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250701/image-1751370844667.jpg?zoom=0.6&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Heads of State Movie Review: John Cena, Idris Elba and Priyanka Chopra Shine in an otherwise passable action flick"></figure>&nbsp;Amazon’s Heads of State stars John Cena as Will Derringer, a former action movie star turned President of the United States, who must put aside his rivalry with Idris Elba’s Sam Clarke, a former commando turned Prime Minister of the UK, after they both become targets of assassins. Priyanka Chopra takes on the role of Noel Bisset, a senior MI6 agent who comes to their aid. Despite its strong cast and solid action set pieces, the film never fully embraces its absurd premise, which ultimately holds it back.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-is-tanvi-sharma-16-year-old-indian-shuttler-now-world-no-1-1751380659142">Who is Tanvi Sharma? 16-year-old Indian shuttler now world no. 1 in junior women's singles</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250701/image-1751383602733.png?rect=(0,160,960,720)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Who is Tanvi Sharma? 16-year-old Indian shuttler now world no. 1 in junior women's singles"></figure>&nbsp;India's 16-year-old badminton sensation Tanvi Sharma made the country proud, as she was announced the new world number 1 junior women's singles player on Tuesday (July 1). The official X account of the Badminton Association of India (BAI) tweeted, “At a mere 16 years old, Teen Titan Tanvi Sharma is the new World No. 1 Junior Women's Single Player. What a great couple of weeks it has been for Tanvi! #Badminton #TanviSharma #TeenTitan #IndiaRising #IndianSports.”

The United States Senate has entered the longest vote-a-rama in its history as lawmakers debate President Donald Trump’s sweeping tax and spending package, officially titled the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill.’ President Donald Trump has suggested that immigration authorities could be directed to investigate Elon Musk after the billionaire renewed his criticism of the administration’s flagship tax-and-spending package, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, now before the Senate. Click on the headlines for more Vote on Trump’s ‘big, beautiful bill’ underway: ‘Vote-a-rama’ becomes longest in Senate history - What is Vote-a-rama? | Explained The United States Senate has entered the longest vote-a-rama in its history as lawmakers debate President Donald Trump’s sweeping tax and spending package, officially titled the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill.’ By Tuesday, Senators had voted on 45 separate amendments and procedural motions, breaking the previous record of 44 votes during a budget resolution debate back in 2008. The rapid-fire session, which started on Monday afternoon, ran into the early hours of Tuesday. DOGE to investigate 'Dogefather'? Trump says 'DOGE monster should eat Musk' amid row over 'One Big Beautiful Bill' President Donald Trump has suggested that immigration authorities could be directed to investigate Elon Musk after the billionaire renewed his criticism of the administration’s flagship tax-and-spending package, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, now before the Senate. 'Silent move & silent watch': Ukraine becomes first country to receive 20 new Rheinmetall Ermine vehicles - Why they're so special? Ukraine will be receiving new Rheinmetall Ermine vehicles, financed by the Dutch Defence Ministry. The German defense manufacturer Rheinmetall made this announcement on June 25, after a contract was signed during the NATO Summit in The Hague. Over 14 million people could die? Trump's US aid cuts could affect millions after Musk puts USAID 'through the woodchipper' As US President Donald Trump's US Agency for International Development (USAID) funding cuts, a study highlighted that more than 14 million of the world's most vulnerable people could die by 2030 because of Trump's cuts. Europe heatwave: Spain, Portugal record hottest June ever, wildfires rage in Turkey Extreme heat has gripped Europe as tens of millions of people brace for more days of dangerous temperatures. Several nations, including France, Italy, and the UK, are experiencing severe conditions as sweltering heat has brought record high temperatures. Spain and Portugal recorded their hottest June ever as the hot weather continues gripping the continent. According to the Portuguese meteorological service, the country recorded a record high temperature of 46.6 degrees Celsius in June. Meanwhile, tens of thousands of people are facing evacuation due to raging wildfires in the western parts of Turkey. US approves $510 million arms sale to Israel as aid hits record high, who are winning big in US The United States Department of State has approved the sale of $510 million of arms to Israel on June 30. Thus paving the way for the procurement of 7,000 Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM) for the Israeli Defence Force (IDF). This includes 3,845 KMU-558B/B kits for BLU-109 bombs and 3,280 KMU-572 F/B kits for MK 82 bombs, along with logistics and technical support services. British man, 92, jailed for rape and murder of elderly woman in one of the oldest cold cases solved A man, now 92, has been sentenced to life in prison for the rape and murder of a 75-year-old widow in the 1960s, in what appears to be the UK’s longest-running cold case ever solved. The court told the man that he will die in prison. Ryland Headley was 34 when he forced open a window at the home of Louisa Dunne, 75, in the Easton area of Bristol in June 1967 before attacking her. Nearly six decades later, Headley was finally sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 20 years after a jury at Bristol Crown Court found him guilty of both charges on Monday afternoon. Hope for Israel-Hamas ceasefire? Netanyahu to visit US next week to meet Trump - What we know Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be meeting US President Donald Trump and other administration officials next week, according to US officials. This comes as the White House pushes Israel and Hamas for a hostage and ceasefire deal. Heads of State Movie Review: John Cena, Idris Elba and Priyanka Chopra Shine in an otherwise passable action flick Amazon’s Heads of State stars John Cena as Will Derringer, a former action movie star turned President of the United States, who must put aside his rivalry with Idris Elba’s Sam Clarke, a former commando turned Prime Minister of the UK, after they both become targets of assassins. Priyanka Chopra takes on the role of Noel Bisset, a senior MI6 agent who comes to their aid. Despite its strong cast and solid action set pieces, the film never fully embraces its absurd premise, which ultimately holds it back. Who is Tanvi Sharma? 16-year-old Indian shuttler now world no. 1 in junior women's singles India's 16-year-old badminton sensation Tanvi Sharma made the country proud, as she was announced the new world number 1 junior women's singles player on Tuesday (July 1). The official X account of the Badminton Association of India (BAI) tweeted, “At a mere 16 years old, Teen Titan Tanvi Sharma is the new World No. 1 Junior Women's Single Player. What a great couple of weeks it has been for Tanvi! #Badminton #TanviSharma #TeenTitan #IndiaRising #IndianSports.”

Top 10 world news: Trump’s ‘big, beautiful bill’ faces Senate’s longest vote in history; DOGE could probe Musk, and more

More than 14 million people—many of them children—could die by the end of this decade as a direct consequence of the Donald Trump administration's sweeping rollback of US foreign aid, according to a new study published in The Lancet. The research arrives just as world leaders gather in Seville, Spain, this week for a UN conference hoping to bolster the reeling aid sector—one that the United States has conspicuously chosen to skip. The study warns that Trump's funding cuts could potentially reverse "two decades of progress in health among vulnerable populations".<h2>Study findings</h2>The new study by a team of international researchers from Spain, Brazil, Mozambique and the United States paints a grim picture. As per AFP, before Trump's return to the White House, the US Agency for International Development (USAID) provided over 40 per cent of the global humanitarian funding. Just two weeks into his 2nd term as POTUS, Trump's then-close advisor and DOGE chief Elon Musk was seen boasting about how he put the aid agency "through the woodchipper".Drawing on health data from 133 low- and middle-income countries, researchers found that USAID helped prevent nearly 91 million deaths between 2001 and 2021—more than any other source of humanitarian funding during that period. But with foreign aid funding slashed by around 83 per cent – a figure announced by the US government earlier this year – those hard-won gains are now at risk.The funding cuts "risk abruptly halting – and even reversing – two decades of progress in health among vulnerable populations," said Davide Rasella, a global health expert at the Barcelona Institute for Global Health and co-author of the study."For many low- and middle-income countries, the resulting shock would be comparable in scale to a global pandemic or a major armed conflict," he added.The researchers estimate that by 2030, more than 14 million preventable deaths could occur if the current level of US disengagement continues, including over 4.5 million children under the age of five. That's roughly 700,000 young children dying each year.The findings underscore how devastating the pullback from global aid could be, not just symbolically, but in sheer human cost. USAID's funding might have seemed modest—just 0.3 per cent of total US federal spending—it carried enormous weight. "US citizens contribute about 17 cents per day to USAID, around $64 per year," said study co-author James Macinko of UCLA. "I think most people would support continued USAID funding if they knew just how effective such a small contribution can be to saving millions of lives."

The funding cuts "risk abruptly halting – and even reversing – two decades of progress in health among vulnerable populations," said Davide Rasella, a global health expert at the Barcelona Institute for Global Health and co-author of the study.

More than 14 million people—many of them children—could die by the end of this decade as a direct consequence of the Donald Trump administration's sweeping rollback of US foreign aid, according to a new study published in The Lancet. The research arrives just as world leaders gather in Seville, Spain, this week for a UN conference hoping to bolster the reeling aid sector—one that the United States has conspicuously chosen to skip. The study warns that Trump's funding cuts could potentially reverse "two decades of progress in health among vulnerable populations". Study findings The new study by a team of international researchers from Spain, Brazil, Mozambique and the United States paints a grim picture. As per AFP, before Trump's return to the White House, the US Agency for International Development (USAID) provided over 40 per cent of the global humanitarian funding. Just two weeks into his 2nd term as POTUS, Trump's then-close advisor and DOGE chief Elon Musk was seen boasting about how he put the aid agency "through the woodchipper". Drawing on health data from 133 low- and middle-income countries, researchers found that USAID helped prevent nearly 91 million deaths between 2001 and 2021—more than any other source of humanitarian funding during that period. But with foreign aid funding slashed by around 83 per cent – a figure announced by the US government earlier this year – those hard-won gains are now at risk. The funding cuts "risk abruptly halting – and even reversing – two decades of progress in health among vulnerable populations," said Davide Rasella, a global health expert at the Barcelona Institute for Global Health and co-author of the study. "For many low- and middle-income countries, the resulting shock would be comparable in scale to a global pandemic or a major armed conflict," he added. The researchers estimate that by 2030, more than 14 million preventable deaths could occur if the current level of US disengagement continues, including over 4.5 million children under the age of five. That's roughly 700,000 young children dying each year. The findings underscore how devastating the pullback from global aid could be, not just symbolically, but in sheer human cost. USAID's funding might have seemed modest—just 0.3 per cent of total US federal spending—it carried enormous weight. "US citizens contribute about 17 cents per day to USAID, around $64 per year," said study co-author James Macinko of UCLA. "I think most people would support continued USAID funding if they knew just how effective such a small contribution can be to saving millions of lives."

The funding cuts "risk abruptly halting – and even reversing – two decades of progress in health among vulnerable populations," said Davide Rasella, a global health expert at the Barcelona Institute for Global Health and co-author of the study.

Trump's foreign aid cuts could cost a lot — 14 million lives by 2030, to be exact: Study

A fatwa is a formal Islamic legal opinion issued by a Marja, a senior Shia cleric. It carries moral and religious weight among followers and can direct personal conduct or, in rare cases, call for punitive action. Recent political and religious tensions in the middle-east have seen Iran's Grand Ayatollah Naser Makarem Shirazi issue fatwas against US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, describing them as ‘enemies of God’ and urging Muslims to stand united against any perceived threat to Iran’s leadership. However, this is not the first time, the most historically significant fatwa issued by Iran remains that against author Salman Rushdie, launched over three decades ago.&nbsp;<h2>The 1989 fatwa: The Satanic Verses backlash</h2>&nbsp;In February 1989, Iran’s then Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini declared Rushdie’s novel ‘The Satanic Verses’ to be blasphemous. He issued a fatwa calling for Rushdie’s execution, alongside anyone involved in publishing the book. The decree was bolstered by a bounty estimated at $2.8 million, and protests erupted across Muslim-majority countries, including bans in India, Bangladesh, Sudan, and Sri Lanka . The fatwa shocked the literary world, forcing Rushdie into hiding in London, under round-the-clock British protection. Reflecting on his impact, Rushdie later said: “What is freedom of expression? Without the freedom to offend, it ceases to exist.”&nbsp;<h2>Continued impact: A global wave of violence</h2>&nbsp;The fatwa did not fade: in the 1990s, Rushdie’s Japanese translator, Hitoshi Igarashi, was stabbed to death in July 1991, and his Italian translator was injured days earlier. Though the Iranian government declared in 1998 that it would not actively pursue the killing, Khomeini’s initial judgment remained officially in force; in 2017, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei reaffirmed its validity. Salman had once said, “Frankly, I wish I had written a more critical book..“A religion that claims it is able to behave like this, religious leaders who are able to behave like this, and then say this is a religion that must be above any kind of whisper of criticism: that doesn’t add up", according to The Independent.&nbsp;<h2>The 2022 stabbing: Fatwa’s long shadow</h2>&nbsp;On 12 August 2022, nearly 34 years later, Rushdie was stabbed while speaking at the Chautauqua Institution in New York. Attacker Hadi Matar, a 24-year-old New Jersey resident, rushed the stage and stabbed Rushdie dozens of times, causing life-threatening wounds. Rushdie lost sight in one eye and use of one hand before reaching hospital where he spent six weeks. He had told NPR: “I was rolling about in bed…people have dreams…you don’t run your daily life because of having a bad dream”. &nbsp;Hadi Matar was charged with attempted murder and assault. In February 2025, he was found guilty and sentenced to 25 years in prison for the violent assault.&nbsp;<h2>Why it took so long, and why it matters</h2>&nbsp;The gap between fatwa and stabbing underscores the lasting potency of such decrees, particularly when issued by a high-ranking cleric like Iran’s Supreme Leader. Unlike formal legal rulings, fatwas require no trial or defence, yet they can inspire violent action by individuals or groups who see them as divine commands. Though the Iranian state said in 1998 it would no longer actively seek Rushdie, the status of the bounty remained. Matar's defense claimed he acted under motivation related to Hezbollah and the enduring fatwa. That the attack occurred decades later shows fatwas can continue to inspire violence long after their issuance, cutting across borders and generations.&nbsp;<h2>Recent fatwas: Political leaders enter the fray</h2>&nbsp;On Monday, Makarem Shirazi issued fatwas against US President Donald Trump and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. Shirazi labelled them as the 'enemies of God', or mohareb for threatening Ayatollah Khamenei or other senior clerics. He additionally urged global Muslim unity against them, warning that supporting and cooperating with them is religiously forbidden (haram) and that anyone suffering for opposing them would be rewarded in fighting for god’s cause.&nbsp;<h2>Free expression versus religious authority</h2>&nbsp;The Rushdie fatwa triggered one of the most intense global debates on free speech. Western governments condemned the decree as a violation of human rights. Critics argue that such fatwas sidestep due process, offering no chance for defence or appeal. Rushdie, even under threat, continued writing: “Instead of just being the person who got stabbed, I now see myself as the person who wrote a book about getting stabbed,” he reflected after publishing his memoir Knife. Amnesty International and PEN have defended Rushdie's right to free expression.&nbsp;<h2>The enduring legacy of a contested decree</h2>&nbsp;The fatwa issued in 1989 remains officially active. Iranian law regards ‘mohareb’ status as a capital offence. Though Iran later signalled a softer stance, it has never formally revoked Khomeini’s ruling.&nbsp; &nbsp;

In February 1989, Iran’s then Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini declared Rushdie’s novel ‘The Satanic Verses’ to be blasphemous. He issued a fatwa calling for Rushdie’s execution, alongside anyone involved in publishing the book.

A fatwa is a formal Islamic legal opinion issued by a Marja, a senior Shia cleric. It carries moral and religious weight among followers and can direct personal conduct or, in rare cases, call for punitive action. Recent political and religious tensions in the middle-east have seen Iran's Grand Ayatollah Naser Makarem Shirazi issue fatwas against US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, describing them as ‘enemies of God’ and urging Muslims to stand united against any perceived threat to Iran’s leadership. However, this is not the first time, the most historically significant fatwa issued by Iran remains that against author Salman Rushdie, launched over three decades ago. The 1989 fatwa: The Satanic Verses backlash In February 1989, Iran’s then Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini declared Rushdie’s novel ‘The Satanic Verses’ to be blasphemous. He issued a fatwa calling for Rushdie’s execution, alongside anyone involved in publishing the book. The decree was bolstered by a bounty estimated at $2.8 million, and protests erupted across Muslim-majority countries, including bans in India, Bangladesh, Sudan, and Sri Lanka . The fatwa shocked the literary world, forcing Rushdie into hiding in London, under round-the-clock British protection. Reflecting on his impact, Rushdie later said: “What is freedom of expression? Without the freedom to offend, it ceases to exist.” Continued impact: A global wave of violence The fatwa did not fade: in the 1990s, Rushdie’s Japanese translator, Hitoshi Igarashi, was stabbed to death in July 1991, and his Italian translator was injured days earlier. Though the Iranian government declared in 1998 that it would not actively pursue the killing, Khomeini’s initial judgment remained officially in force; in 2017, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei reaffirmed its validity. Salman had once said, “Frankly, I wish I had written a more critical book.. “A religion that claims it is able to behave like this, religious leaders who are able to behave like this, and then say this is a religion that must be above any kind of whisper of criticism: that doesn’t add up", according to The Independent. The 2022 stabbing: Fatwa’s long shadow On 12 August 2022, nearly 34 years later, Rushdie was stabbed while speaking at the Chautauqua Institution in New York. Attacker Hadi Matar, a 24-year-old New Jersey resident, rushed the stage and stabbed Rushdie dozens of times, causing life-threatening wounds. Rushdie lost sight in one eye and use of one hand before reaching hospital where he spent six weeks. He had told NPR: “I was rolling about in bed…people have dreams…you don’t run your daily life because of having a bad dream”. Hadi Matar was charged with attempted murder and assault. In February 2025, he was found guilty and sentenced to 25 years in prison for the violent assault. Why it took so long, and why it matters The gap between fatwa and stabbing underscores the lasting potency of such decrees, particularly when issued by a high-ranking cleric like Iran’s Supreme Leader. Unlike formal legal rulings, fatwas require no trial or defence, yet they can inspire violent action by individuals or groups who see them as divine commands. Though the Iranian state said in 1998 it would no longer actively seek Rushdie, the status of the bounty remained. Matar's defense claimed he acted under motivation related to Hezbollah and the enduring fatwa. That the attack occurred decades later shows fatwas can continue to inspire violence long after their issuance, cutting across borders and generations. Recent fatwas: Political leaders enter the fray On Monday, Makarem Shirazi issued fatwas against US President Donald Trump and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. Shirazi labelled them as the 'enemies of God', or mohareb for threatening Ayatollah Khamenei or other senior clerics. He additionally urged global Muslim unity against them, warning that supporting and cooperating with them is religiously forbidden (haram) and that anyone suffering for opposing them would be rewarded in fighting for god’s cause. Free expression versus religious authority The Rushdie fatwa triggered one of the most intense global debates on free speech. Western governments condemned the decree as a violation of human rights. Critics argue that such fatwas sidestep due process, offering no chance for defence or appeal. Rushdie, even under threat, continued writing: “Instead of just being the person who got stabbed, I now see myself as the person who wrote a book about getting stabbed,” he reflected after publishing his memoir Knife. Amnesty International and PEN have defended Rushdie's right to free expression. The enduring legacy of a contested decree The fatwa issued in 1989 remains officially active. Iranian law regards ‘mohareb’ status as a capital offence. Though Iran later signalled a softer stance, it has never formally revoked Khomeini’s ruling.

In February 1989, Iran’s then Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini declared Rushdie’s novel ‘The Satanic Verses’ to be blasphemous. He issued a fatwa calling for Rushdie’s execution, alongside anyone involved in publishing the book.

The author Iran targeted before Trump and Netanyahu: Salman Rushdie’s 'fatwa' and stabbing explained!