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US Central Command (CENTCOM) on Saturday (May 2) released an image showing USS New Orleans (LPD 18) operating in the Arabian Sea on April 28 as the United States continues the blockade of Iranian ports. This comes as tensions continue to flare in West Asia amid a tense standoff between the US and Iran over the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has said that he is “not satisfied” with Iran’s new proposal amid stalled talks.In a post on X, CENTCOM posted, “USS New Orleans (LPD 18) sails in the Arabian Sea during the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports, April 28. Over the past 20 days, 48 vessels have been redirected to ensure compliance with the blockade.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">USS New Orleans (LPD 18) sails in the Arabian Sea during the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports, April 28. Over the past 20 days, 48 vessels have been redirected to ensure compliance with the blockade. <a href="https://t.co/Zuj12vfFMw">pic.twitter.com/Zuj12vfFMw</a>&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/2050568285825933750?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

A day earlier, CENTCOM also posted a video showing US forces continuing patrolling of international waters and enforcing the ongoing blockade against Iran.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">U.S. forces continue to patrol international waters and enforce the ongoing naval blockade against Iran. As of now, 45 commercial vessels have been directed to turn around or return to port to ensure compliance. <a href="https://t.co/K682VHSXAq">pic.twitter.com/K682VHSXAq</a>&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/2050260946937860513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Trump unhappy with Iran proposal</h2>Amid stalled peace talks between the US and Iran, the Iranian state media reported that Tehran had delivered a new proposal to Pakistan on Thursday evening. Following the report, Trump told reporters that he was “not satisfied” with what the Iranians were offering at the moment.Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said, “At this moment I’m not satisfied with what they’re offering.”When asked why he was unsatisfied with the Iranian proposal, Trump responded, “They’re asking for things that I can’t agree.” The US president did not give details on what things the Iranians were asking.Trump also said that Iran had “made strides” in the discussions, but added that there was “tremendous discord” in the Islamic Republic’s leadership. He said, “I’m not sure if they ever get there.”When asked what he would do if Iran fails to strike a deal, Trump said, “Do we want to go and just blast the hell out of them and finish them forever – or do we want to try and make a deal? I mean, those are the options.”The Republican president added that he would “prefer not” to launch a huge offensive against Tehran, but warned, “That’s the option: do we want to go in there heavy and just blast them away or do we want to do something?”Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

United States Central Command shared an image of USS New Orleans enforcing the Iran blockade in the Arabian Sea, saying 48 vessels were redirected to ensure compliance.

US Central Command (CENTCOM) on Saturday (May 2) released an image showing USS New Orleans (LPD 18) operating in the Arabian Sea on April 28 as the United States continues the blockade of Iranian ports. This comes as tensions continue to flare in West Asia amid a tense standoff between the US and Iran over the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has said that he is “not satisfied” with Iran’s new proposal amid stalled talks. In a post on X, CENTCOM posted, “USS New Orleans (LPD 18) sails in the Arabian Sea during the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports, April 28. Over the past 20 days, 48 vessels have been redirected to ensure compliance with the blockade.”

United States Central Command shared an image of USS New Orleans enforcing the Iran blockade in the Arabian Sea, saying 48 vessels were redirected to ensure compliance.

‘48 vessels redirected’: US CENTCOM photo shows USS New Orleans amid blockade of Iranian ports

&nbsp;A Marshall Islands-flagged LPG carrier, Sarv Shakti, carrying over 45,000-tonne of LPG of Indian origin, has safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, according to official sources. The vessel, with 20 crew members onboard, including 18 Indian nationals, is now en route to Visakhapatnam and is expected to arrive on May 13, 2026. Earlier, Bloomberg had reported citing ship-tracking data that the supertanker was attempting passage through the Strait of Hormuz. It was tracked on Saturday moving northwards past Iran’s Larak and Qeshm islands, appearing to head towards the Gulf of Oman.&nbsp;The transit comes at a time when shipping activity through the key energy route has dropped sharply amid heightened regional tensions. Bloomberg reported that vessel movements through the strait have become rare following disruptions linked to a US blockade affecting Iran-associated shipping, which significantly reduced maritime traffic in the region.<h3>Cargo traced to Indian buyer</h3>&nbsp;According to shipping documents reviewed by Bloomberg, Indian Oil Corporation has been identified as the buyer of the LPG cargo, although there has been no official confirmation from the company. The tanker is carrying approximately 45,000 tonnes of LPG, a critical fuel widely used for household cooking in India.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-pakistan-economic-corridor-under-strain-chinese-company-shuts-gwadar-unit-flags-systemic-barriers-in-project-1777729696578">China-Pakistan Economic Corridor under strain? Chinese company shuts Gwadar unit, flags ‘systemic barriers’ in project</a>&nbsp;The Sarv Shakti entered the Persian Gulf earlier in February and loaded its cargo through a ship-to-ship transfer near Dubai. The vessel’s movement is being closely tracked due to its scale and timing, as several commercial ships have previously altered routes or delayed transits amid volatility in the region.<h3>Strategic waterway under heightened strain</h3>The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global energy chokepoint, has come under sustained strain amid rising tensions between Iran and the United States. Maritime traffic through the passage has remained heavily restricted, with numerous vessels avoiding the route due to security concerns and operational uncertainty. Shipping data showed that only six ships, which is a fraction of normal traffic, &nbsp;crossed the strait on Wednesday.&nbsp;The successful crossing ensures continuity of a key shipment amid broader concerns over supply chain stability in the Middle East. The presence of 18 Indian crew members aboard the vessel further underscores India’s operational footprint in global energy shipping routes.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wion-summit-india-can-offer-zero-tariff-access-sri-lanka-industry-leaders-call-to-rethink-india-sri-lanka-trade-ties-1777720764699">WION Summit| 'India can offer zero-tariff access': Sri Lanka industry leaders call to rethink India–Sri Lanka trade ties</a><h3>India’s energy security concerns</h3>The development carries significance for India, the world’s third-largest oil importer and a major LPG consumer. Supply chains have been strained by instability in the Middle East, prompting concerns over domestic fuel availability.&nbsp;In response, India has prioritised LPG shipments at ports and expanded domestic production capacity to around 54,000 tonnes per day, while demand stands near 80,000 tonnes, according to Oil Minister Hardeep Puri. Despite disruptions, India has continued securing limited LPG supplies through diplomatic channels and alternative routing arrangements.

Maritime traffic through the passage has remained heavily restricted, with numerous vessels avoiding the route due to security concerns and operational uncertainty.

A Marshall Islands-flagged LPG carrier, Sarv Shakti, carrying over 45,000-tonne of LPG of Indian origin, has safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, according to official sources. The vessel, with 20 crew members onboard, including 18 Indian nationals, is now en route to Visakhapatnam and is expected to arrive on May 13, 2026. Earlier, Bloomberg had reported citing ship-tracking data that the supertanker was attempting passage through the Strait of Hormuz. It was tracked on Saturday moving northwards past Iran’s Larak and Qeshm islands, appearing to head towards the Gulf of Oman. The transit comes at a time when shipping activity through the key energy route has dropped sharply amid heightened regional tensions. Bloomberg reported that vessel movements through the strait have become rare following disruptions linked to a US blockade affecting Iran-associated shipping, which significantly reduced maritime traffic in the region. Cargo traced to Indian buyer According to shipping documents reviewed by Bloomberg, Indian Oil Corporation has been identified as the buyer of the LPG cargo, although there has been no official confirmation from the company. The tanker is carrying approximately 45,000 tonnes of LPG, a critical fuel widely used for household cooking in India. ALSO READ: China-Pakistan Economic Corridor under strain? Chinese company shuts Gwadar unit, flags ‘systemic barriers’ in project The Sarv Shakti entered the Persian Gulf earlier in February and loaded its cargo through a ship-to-ship transfer near Dubai. The vessel’s movement is being closely tracked due to its scale and timing, as several commercial ships have previously altered routes or delayed transits amid volatility in the region. Strategic waterway under heightened strain The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global energy chokepoint, has come under sustained strain amid rising tensions between Iran and the United States. Maritime traffic through the passage has remained heavily restricted, with numerous vessels avoiding the route due to security concerns and operational uncertainty. Shipping data showed that only six ships, which is a fraction of normal traffic, crossed the strait on Wednesday. The successful crossing ensures continuity of a key shipment amid broader concerns over supply chain stability in the Middle East. The presence of 18 Indian crew members aboard the vessel further underscores India’s operational footprint in global energy shipping routes. ALSO READ: WION Summit| 'India can offer zero-tariff access': Sri Lanka industry leaders call to rethink India–Sri Lanka trade ties India’s energy security concerns The development carries significance for India, the world’s third-largest oil importer and a major LPG consumer. Supply chains have been strained by instability in the Middle East, prompting concerns over domestic fuel availability. In response, India has prioritised LPG shipments at ports and expanded domestic production capacity to around 54,000 tonnes per day, while demand stands near 80,000 tonnes, according to Oil Minister Hardeep Puri. Despite disruptions, India has continued securing limited LPG supplies through diplomatic channels and alternative routing arrangements.

Maritime traffic through the passage has remained heavily restricted, with numerous vessels avoiding the route due to security concerns and operational uncertainty.

India-linked 45,000-tonne LPG tanker Sarv Shakti crosses volatile Strait of Hormuz in high-risk transit

Sri Lanka's Deputy Minister of Tourism, Prof. Ruwan Chaminda Ranasinghe, on Saturday (May 02) hailed Indian travellers as a key pillar in helping the island's tourism remain sustainable and a key engine of economic growth for the country, saying they provide "consistency and resilience throughout the year for the island's growing tourism industry."&nbsp;Addressing the Zee Media and WION's Global Innovation &amp; Leadership Summit in Colombo on the theme of "The Island where India Feels at Home," Prof. Ranasinghe made a candid admission about the untapped potential of the Indian market, noting that while 32.7 million Indians travelled abroad in 2025, Sri Lanka received only 31,000 of them. "I feel something is wrong here, and I think there is something to be fixed, which will be our focus in the years to come," he said, pointing to the island's geographic advantages as a starting point.&nbsp;Outlining his vision for deeper bilateral ties, the minister said, "India and Sri Lanka together can emerge as a unified economic zone that will help drive the growth and future of the Global South." He identified agriculture, marine industries, and the creative sector as the three areas where he sees "significant growth potential in the coming years."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-clears-8-6-bn-arms-sales-to-israel-qatar-uae-and-kuwait-amid-iran-tensions-1777727156079">Trump administration clears $8.6 bn arms sales to Israel, Qatar, UAE and Kuwait amid Iran tensions</a>&nbsp;Highlighting Sri Lanka's unique tourism proposition, Prof. Ranasinghe said that, unlike many destinations where travellers must choose between experiences, Sri Lanka offers the opportunity to combine multiple experiences within a single journey. He also noted that India remains the top outbound destination for Sri Lankans as well, particularly for Buddhist pilgrimages, underscoring the deep cultural ties binding the two nations.&nbsp;Acknowledging the rapidly shifting landscape of global travel, the minister said, "Global travel is evolving, and AI is adapting to these changing trends and consumer preferences. We are witnessing a shift from short-term visits to longer stays, with digital nomads choosing to spend several months here."&nbsp;Expressing confidence in Sri Lanka’s tourism outlook, Prof. Ranasinghe acknowledged the challenges ahead, noting that the island competes in a highly competitive global tourism market dominated by established destinations such as Thailand and Bali. However, he remained optimistic, stressing that tourism continues to be a key pillar of the Sri Lankan economy with benefits reaching across sectors. He also underlined that Indian travellers will play a crucial role in sustaining long-term growth and resilience in the sector.&nbsp;&nbsp;Echoing similar sentiments at the Zee WION Global Innovation &amp; Leadership Summit, Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, expressed optimism that identifying agriculture, marine, and creative industries as key sectors likely to drive growth in the coming years. He also underscored the importance of closer regional integration, stating that India and Sri Lanka together can function as “one economic zone” that has the potential to power the future of the Global South.&nbsp;

The minister flagged a stark gap between the 32.7 million Indians travelling abroad in 2025 and just 31,000 visiting Sri Lanka, stressing that closing this gap will be central to the island’s tourism strategy going forward.

Sri Lanka's Deputy Minister of Tourism, Prof. Ruwan Chaminda Ranasinghe, on Saturday (May 02) hailed Indian travellers as a key pillar in helping the island's tourism remain sustainable and a key engine of economic growth for the country, saying they provide "consistency and resilience throughout the year for the island's growing tourism industry." Addressing the Zee Media and WION's Global Innovation & Leadership Summit in Colombo on the theme of "The Island where India Feels at Home," Prof. Ranasinghe made a candid admission about the untapped potential of the Indian market, noting that while 32.7 million Indians travelled abroad in 2025, Sri Lanka received only 31,000 of them. "I feel something is wrong here, and I think there is something to be fixed, which will be our focus in the years to come," he said, pointing to the island's geographic advantages as a starting point. Outlining his vision for deeper bilateral ties, the minister said, "India and Sri Lanka together can emerge as a unified economic zone that will help drive the growth and future of the Global South." He identified agriculture, marine industries, and the creative sector as the three areas where he sees "significant growth potential in the coming years." Also Read: Trump administration clears $8.6 bn arms sales to Israel, Qatar, UAE and Kuwait amid Iran tensions Highlighting Sri Lanka's unique tourism proposition, Prof. Ranasinghe said that, unlike many destinations where travellers must choose between experiences, Sri Lanka offers the opportunity to combine multiple experiences within a single journey. He also noted that India remains the top outbound destination for Sri Lankans as well, particularly for Buddhist pilgrimages, underscoring the deep cultural ties binding the two nations. Acknowledging the rapidly shifting landscape of global travel, the minister said, "Global travel is evolving, and AI is adapting to these changing trends and consumer preferences. We are witnessing a shift from short-term visits to longer stays, with digital nomads choosing to spend several months here." Expressing confidence in Sri Lanka’s tourism outlook, Prof. Ranasinghe acknowledged the challenges ahead, noting that the island competes in a highly competitive global tourism market dominated by established destinations such as Thailand and Bali. However, he remained optimistic, stressing that tourism continues to be a key pillar of the Sri Lankan economy with benefits reaching across sectors. He also underlined that Indian travellers will play a crucial role in sustaining long-term growth and resilience in the sector. Echoing similar sentiments at the Zee WION Global Innovation & Leadership Summit, Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, expressed optimism that identifying agriculture, marine, and creative industries as key sectors likely to drive growth in the coming years. He also underscored the importance of closer regional integration, stating that India and Sri Lanka together can function as “one economic zone” that has the potential to power the future of the Global South.

The minister flagged a stark gap between the 32.7 million Indians travelling abroad in 2025 and just 31,000 visiting Sri Lanka, stressing that closing this gap will be central to the island’s tourism strategy going forward.

‘Key to sustainability’: Sri Lanka Deputy Tourism Minister hails Indian travelers, pushes for deeper economic ties

Spirit Airlines on Saturday (May 2) announced that it had begun “wind-down” operations amid fuel crisis triggered by the Iran war. As the airlines cancelled all their flights, chaos erupted for passengers who had bookings. Amid travel chaos in the United States, American Airlines stepped in, offering “rescue fares” to those affected by Spirit Airlines shutdown. JetBlue has also announced that it would offer help to those whose travel plans were disrupted following sudden flight cancellations by Spirit Airlines.<h2>‘Rescue fares’</h2>In a statement, American Airlines said, “If your travel has been impacted, American Airlines is offering rescue fares in Main Cabin on select routes to help Spirit customers reach their destination.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">If your travel has been impacted, American Airlines is offering rescue fares in Main Cabin on select routes to help Spirit customers reach their destination. Search fares at <a href="https://t.co/GEjKbXoItn">https://t.co/GEjKbXoItn</a>.&mdash; americanair (@AmericanAir) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmericanAir/status/2050478492798583061?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

While JetBlue posted on X, “We know that uncertainty is never easy. We’re here to help if Spirit Airlines’ operations are suspended and your travel plans are disrupted.” In a separate post, it added, “If your trip has been impacted, we’re here to keep you moving.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">If your trip has been impacted, we&#39;re here to keep you moving. Get help here: <a href="https://t.co/Z2MO9WX3Zz">https://t.co/Z2MO9WX3Zz</a> <a href="https://t.co/vY9FDTDGPy">pic.twitter.com/vY9FDTDGPy</a>&mdash; JetBlue (@JetBlue) <a href="https://twitter.com/JetBlue/status/2050515693766857000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

United Airlines also said that it was offering “price-capped, one-way tickets from most cities where Spirit flew.”<h2>Why is Spirit Airlines shutting down?</h2>Low-cost American carrier Spirit Airlines on Saturday (May 2) said that it has cancelled all flights as part of an “orderly wind-down of operations”, citing a sharp rise in jet fuel prices. This comes after the airline, which had been preparing to emerge from its second bankruptcy in a year, failed to secure a White House bailout. Its parent company, Spirit Aviation Holdings, confirmed that the shutdown is effective immediately.Spirit’s President and CEO Dave Davis said the company had “reached an agreement with our bondholders on a restructuring plan that would have allowed us to emerge as a go-forward business.”He added, “However, the sudden and sustained rise in fuel prices in recent weeks ultimately has left us with no alternative but to pursue an orderly wind-down of the Company.”“Sustaining the business required hundreds of millions of additional dollars of liquidity that Spirit simply does not have and could not procure. This is tremendously disappointing and not the outcome any of us wanted,” he said.Founded in 1992, Spirit Airlines became known for its ultra-low-cost model and distinctive yellow planes. As of 2024, it employed over 11,000 people, making its shutdown a significant blow to the aviation sector.

Spirit Airlines cancelled all flights and began shutdown due to soaring fuel costs, triggering travel chaos. American Airlines, JetBlue and United Airlines stepped in with relief fares for affected passengers.

Spirit Airlines on Saturday (May 2) announced that it had begun “wind-down” operations amid fuel crisis triggered by the Iran war. As the airlines cancelled all their flights, chaos erupted for passengers who had bookings. Amid travel chaos in the United States, American Airlines stepped in, offering “rescue fares” to those affected by Spirit Airlines shutdown. JetBlue has also announced that it would offer help to those whose travel plans were disrupted following sudden flight cancellations by Spirit Airlines. ‘Rescue fares’ In a statement, American Airlines said, “If your travel has been impacted, American Airlines is offering rescue fares in Main Cabin on select routes to help Spirit customers reach their destination.”

Spirit Airlines cancelled all flights and began shutdown due to soaring fuel costs, triggering travel chaos. American Airlines, JetBlue and United Airlines stepped in with relief fares for affected passengers.

Spirit Airlines shutdown: US airlines jump to ‘rescue’ amid travel chaos

A Chinese firm operating in Pakistan’s Gwadar Port ecosystem under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has suspended its factory operations from May 1, citing 'systemic barriers' and persistent execution-level barriers. In a statement issued on X on Friday, the company said it was “forced to inform all our employees in Pakistan and China that, due to ongoing non-market factors and operational barriers, the company can no longer sustain normal operations and will be compelled to shut down the factory.”&nbsp;The firm said the decision followed months of operational strain despite full compliance with regulatory requirements.<h3>Compliance claims and blocked exports</h3>&nbsp;The company stated that its facility had ‘successfully met the inspection and quarantine standards of China Customs’ and complied with international HACCP food safety requirements. However, it alleged that despite meeting all export benchmarks, “the project has not received the necessary approvals in practice, and exports have remained blocked.”&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/patriot-apkws-precision-rockets-ibcs-network-inside-8-6-billion-us-arms-sales-to-israel-qatar-kuwait-uae-1777709566658">Patriot, APKWS precision rockets &amp; IBCS network: Inside $8.6 billion US arms sales to Israel, Qatar, Kuwait &amp; UAE</a>&nbsp;It further said that over the past three months it had remained “patient and fully cooperative with all relevant authorities”, while seeking resolution through higher-level coordination. During this period, it reported continued financial losses including “employee wages, contractual penalties, electricity costs, and container demurrage charges.”<h3>‘Systemic barriers’ and investor warning</h3>&nbsp;While acknowledging regulatory oversight, the firm said the challenges had shifted beyond technical compliance. It stated that “the challenges we face are no longer purely technical or compliance-related, but stem from execution-level uncertainties and systemic barriers.”&nbsp;Referring to Gwadar as a flagship CPEC project, the company noted it had already overcome “difficult logistics, limited utilities, and underdeveloped infrastructure,” but said current obstacles were beyond enterprise-level resolution. It expressed gratitude to Pakistani authorities, particularly the Ministry of Planning, for support reflecting “the spirit of China–Pakistan friendship.”&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wion-summit-india-can-offer-zero-tariff-access-sri-lanka-industry-leaders-call-to-rethink-india-sri-lanka-trade-ties-1777720764699">WION Summit| 'India can offer zero-tariff access': Sri Lanka industry leaders call to rethink India–Sri Lanka trade ties</a>&nbsp;Ahead of Pakistan’s Prime Minister’s planned visit to China for a B2B investment forum, the firm urged investors to carefully assess “policy execution gaps and institutional uncertainties” before committing to projects in Pakistan. It also said it was ‘fully ready’ to generate employment, foreign exchange and support Gwadar’s development, but stressed the need for “a clear, consistent, and executable policy environment.”<h3>Wider concerns over CPEC viability</h3>&nbsp;The shutdown adds pressure on Gwadar’s long-delayed development under CPEC, which has struggled with low cargo volumes, infrastructure gaps and regional instability in Balochistan. Analysts have long noted that Pakistan’s balancing act between China and the United States has complicated strategic trust, with concerns that shifting external alignments may be affecting long-term investment confidence in Chinese-backed infrastructure projects.

The company stated that its facility had ‘successfully met the inspection and quarantine standards of China Customs’ and complied with international HACCP food safety requirements.

A Chinese firm operating in Pakistan’s Gwadar Port ecosystem under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has suspended its factory operations from May 1, citing 'systemic barriers' and persistent execution-level barriers. In a statement issued on X on Friday, the company said it was “forced to inform all our employees in Pakistan and China that, due to ongoing non-market factors and operational barriers, the company can no longer sustain normal operations and will be compelled to shut down the factory.” The firm said the decision followed months of operational strain despite full compliance with regulatory requirements. Compliance claims and blocked exports The company stated that its facility had ‘successfully met the inspection and quarantine standards of China Customs’ and complied with international HACCP food safety requirements. However, it alleged that despite meeting all export benchmarks, “the project has not received the necessary approvals in practice, and exports have remained blocked.” ALSO READ: Patriot, APKWS precision rockets & IBCS network: Inside $8.6 billion US arms sales to Israel, Qatar, Kuwait & UAE It further said that over the past three months it had remained “patient and fully cooperative with all relevant authorities”, while seeking resolution through higher-level coordination. During this period, it reported continued financial losses including “employee wages, contractual penalties, electricity costs, and container demurrage charges.” ‘Systemic barriers’ and investor warning While acknowledging regulatory oversight, the firm said the challenges had shifted beyond technical compliance. It stated that “the challenges we face are no longer purely technical or compliance-related, but stem from execution-level uncertainties and systemic barriers.” Referring to Gwadar as a flagship CPEC project, the company noted it had already overcome “difficult logistics, limited utilities, and underdeveloped infrastructure,” but said current obstacles were beyond enterprise-level resolution. It expressed gratitude to Pakistani authorities, particularly the Ministry of Planning, for support reflecting “the spirit of China–Pakistan friendship.” ALSO READ: WION Summit| 'India can offer zero-tariff access': Sri Lanka industry leaders call to rethink India–Sri Lanka trade ties Ahead of Pakistan’s Prime Minister’s planned visit to China for a B2B investment forum, the firm urged investors to carefully assess “policy execution gaps and institutional uncertainties” before committing to projects in Pakistan. It also said it was ‘fully ready’ to generate employment, foreign exchange and support Gwadar’s development, but stressed the need for “a clear, consistent, and executable policy environment.” Wider concerns over CPEC viability The shutdown adds pressure on Gwadar’s long-delayed development under CPEC, which has struggled with low cargo volumes, infrastructure gaps and regional instability in Balochistan. Analysts have long noted that Pakistan’s balancing act between China and the United States has complicated strategic trust, with concerns that shifting external alignments may be affecting long-term investment confidence in Chinese-backed infrastructure projects.

The company stated that its facility had ‘successfully met the inspection and quarantine standards of China Customs’ and complied with international HACCP food safety requirements.

China-Pakistan Economic Corridor under strain? Chinese company shuts Gwadar unit, flags ‘systemic barriers’ in project

The US State Department on Friday approved military sales worth over $8.6 billion to key Middle East allies, Israel, Qatar, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates, invoking an emergency provision to bypass the usual congressional review process.&nbsp;The clearance from the Trump administration comes as tensions in the region remain high, with the ongoing conflict involving Iran entering its ninth week. While a fragile truce is in place, no formal agreement has yet been reached to end hostilities.&nbsp;The approved packages include a range of advanced military systems, from precision-guided munitions to sophisticated air defence interceptors. Officials said the expedited approval was necessary to address urgent security concerns and reinforce allied defence capabilities in the region.&nbsp;For Israel, the US cleared the sale of 10,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System-II (APKWS-II) All Up Rounds and related equipment, valued at $992.4 million. The systems will be manufactured by BAE Systems.&nbsp;Qatar also received approval for a similar $992.4 million deal involving 10,000 APKWS-II systems. In addition, Doha secured a much larger package worth $4.01 billion, including 200 Patriot Advanced Capability-2 (PAC-2) GEM-T interceptors and 300 PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement interceptors. The principal contractors for these systems include Lockheed Martin and RTX Corporation.&nbsp;The United Arab Emirates was authorised to purchase 1,500 APKWS-II guidance sections for air-to-air applications at a cost of $147.6 million.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-protests-erupt-in-falta-as-residents-allege-intimidation-before-may-4-counting-1777724375375">West Bengal: Protests erupt in Falta as residents allege TMC intimidation ahead of May 4 counting</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Kuwait’s package, valued at $2.5 billion, includes Integrated Battle Command Systems and associated equipment. The deal involves major defence contractors such as Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin and RTX Corporation.&nbsp;US Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the decision, stating that an “emergency exists that requires the immediate sale” of these weapons. Typically, such arms deals undergo a congressional review period, with final quantities and pricing determined through negotiations between buyers and suppliers.&nbsp;However, the State Department said the accelerated approval aligns with US national security interests, particularly in light of escalating regional threats.&nbsp;The West Asia crisis began on February 28, when the US and Israel launched military strikes targeting Iran. Tehran responded with retaliatory actions against US-aligned nations in the region, including the UAE, Qatar and Kuwait. Despite the ongoing truce, tensions remain elevated, prompting Washington to strengthen the defensive capabilities of its allies.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the decision, stating that an “emergency exists that requires the immediate sale” of these weapons. 

The US State Department on Friday approved military sales worth over $8.6 billion to key Middle East allies, Israel, Qatar, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates, invoking an emergency provision to bypass the usual congressional review process. The clearance from the Trump administration comes as tensions in the region remain high, with the ongoing conflict involving Iran entering its ninth week. While a fragile truce is in place, no formal agreement has yet been reached to end hostilities. The approved packages include a range of advanced military systems, from precision-guided munitions to sophisticated air defence interceptors. Officials said the expedited approval was necessary to address urgent security concerns and reinforce allied defence capabilities in the region. For Israel, the US cleared the sale of 10,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System-II (APKWS-II) All Up Rounds and related equipment, valued at $992.4 million. The systems will be manufactured by BAE Systems. Qatar also received approval for a similar $992.4 million deal involving 10,000 APKWS-II systems. In addition, Doha secured a much larger package worth $4.01 billion, including 200 Patriot Advanced Capability-2 (PAC-2) GEM-T interceptors and 300 PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement interceptors. The principal contractors for these systems include Lockheed Martin and RTX Corporation. The United Arab Emirates was authorised to purchase 1,500 APKWS-II guidance sections for air-to-air applications at a cost of $147.6 million. Also Read: West Bengal: Protests erupt in Falta as residents allege TMC intimidation ahead of May 4 counting Meanwhile, Kuwait’s package, valued at $2.5 billion, includes Integrated Battle Command Systems and associated equipment. The deal involves major defence contractors such as Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin and RTX Corporation. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the decision, stating that an “emergency exists that requires the immediate sale” of these weapons. Typically, such arms deals undergo a congressional review period, with final quantities and pricing determined through negotiations between buyers and suppliers. However, the State Department said the accelerated approval aligns with US national security interests, particularly in light of escalating regional threats. The West Asia crisis began on February 28, when the US and Israel launched military strikes targeting Iran. Tehran responded with retaliatory actions against US-aligned nations in the region, including the UAE, Qatar and Kuwait. Despite the ongoing truce, tensions remain elevated, prompting Washington to strengthen the defensive capabilities of its allies.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the decision, stating that an “emergency exists that requires the immediate sale” of these weapons.&nbsp;

Trump administration clears $8.6 bn arms sales to Israel, Qatar, UAE and Kuwait amid Iran tensions

A 23-year-old German influencer, Tom Kopke, officially broke the Guinness World Record for the fastest time to solve a rotating puzzle cube while in freefall. On February 17, 2026. He completed the solve in just 23.333 seconds while skydiving over Mossel Bay, South Africa. This performance surpassed the previous record of 28.250 seconds, which had been set by Sam Sieracki of Australia in 2023. He began solving the cube just after jumping from the plane. He faced terminal velocity winds exceeding 100 mph and solved the cube just before landing.&nbsp;Kopke, a medical student, began cubing at 18 and spent years practising unusual challenges, including solving six cubes underwater. He had earlier created a video where he mentioned his desire to solve the Rubik's Cube while diving. Tom explained that learning skydiving had long been on his list, particularly because he wanted to create more ambitious content involving aerial challenges. Taking on a world record attempt early in that journey gave his training a clear purpose. He pursued a skydiving license specifically to make high-stakes videos, choosing this world record attempt to give his training a clear purpose.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-sri-lanka-relations-harsha-de-silva-energy-defence-1777721688471">India-Sri Lanka ties deepening across energy, defence and trade, says MP Harsha de Silva</a>Kopke noted that the most dangerous moment was the "handover" of the cube in the air and admitted that while his record is 23 seconds, he once hit an 18-second pace during practice before losing focus. Tom has previously solved six Rubik's Cubes underwater, tying with a Guinness World Record title. The recent official record for solving the most rotating puzzles underwater is 16, and it is held by Daryl Tan Hong An from Singapore. &nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Tom Kopke has achieved the fastest time to solve a rotating puzzle cube whilst in freefall - 23.33 seconds 🫡 <a href="https://t.co/ZNBjhTXmrC">pic.twitter.com/ZNBjhTXmrC</a>&mdash; Guinness World Records (@GWR) <a href="https://twitter.com/GWR/status/2049449669785170016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

German influencer Tom Kopke breaks the Guinness World Record by solving a Rubik’s Cube in 23.333 seconds while skydiving over South Africa.

A 23-year-old German influencer, Tom Kopke, officially broke the Guinness World Record for the fastest time to solve a rotating puzzle cube while in freefall. On February 17, 2026. He completed the solve in just 23.333 seconds while skydiving over Mossel Bay, South Africa. This performance surpassed the previous record of 28.250 seconds, which had been set by Sam Sieracki of Australia in 2023. He began solving the cube just after jumping from the plane. He faced terminal velocity winds exceeding 100 mph and solved the cube just before landing. Kopke, a medical student, began cubing at 18 and spent years practising unusual challenges, including solving six cubes underwater. He had earlier created a video where he mentioned his desire to solve the Rubik's Cube while diving. Tom explained that learning skydiving had long been on his list, particularly because he wanted to create more ambitious content involving aerial challenges. Taking on a world record attempt early in that journey gave his training a clear purpose. He pursued a skydiving license specifically to make high-stakes videos, choosing this world record attempt to give his training a clear purpose. Also Read: India-Sri Lanka ties deepening across energy, defence and trade, says MP Harsha de Silva Kopke noted that the most dangerous moment was the "handover" of the cube in the air and admitted that while his record is 23 seconds, he once hit an 18-second pace during practice before losing focus. Tom has previously solved six Rubik's Cubes underwater, tying with a Guinness World Record title. The recent official record for solving the most rotating puzzles underwater is 16, and it is held by Daryl Tan Hong An from Singapore.

German influencer Tom Kopke breaks the Guinness World Record by solving a Rubik’s Cube in 23.333 seconds while skydiving over South Africa.

Tom Kopke sets world record solving Rubik’s Cube mid-air in 23 seconds

Hanif Yusoof, Governor of the Western Province of Sri Lanka and Special Envoy of the President for Foreign Investment, on Saturday (May 2) highlighted the partnership between India and Sri Lanka while delivering his keynote address at the Zee Media and WION’s Global Innovation &amp; Leadership Summit in Colombo. Hailing the relations between the two nations, Yusoof said that the two nations “do not coexist but grow together.” He also said that the ties between India and Sri Lanka were “written in the footsteps.”“We, India and Sri Lanka, do not coexist but grow together. Sri Lanka has been more than an island, but always an Idea. A bridge between civilisations, the ties between India and Sri Lanka were written in the footsteps,” he said.Yusoof added, “India is the great engine of the 21st century. India represents volume, while Sri Lanka represents velocity. India is the world’s greatest growth story, and Sri Lanka has the potential to become one of its strongest partners. Sri Lanka can emerge as one of the best strategic partnerships in the world, a place to build, a place to scale, and a strategic platform for global growth.”He further said that Sri Lanka can rise with India, not as a dependent nation but as a trusted partner and an extension of India’s strength. “Sri Lanka must be seen as a strategic platform for growth, innovation, and regional cooperation,” he said.He further said that Sri offers India “proximity without complexity”. He added that Sri Lanka understands India not because we study India, but because we have grown alongside India in many ways.“Come not only to sell in Sri Lanka, but also to build in Sri Lanka. Let us not merely inherit history, let us create a lasting legacy together,” said Yusoof.

Sri Lanka’s Western Province Governor Hanif Yusoof praised India ties, calling both nations growth partners. He urged deeper collaboration, positioning Sri Lanka as a strategic hub for innovation and global expansion.

Hanif Yusoof, Governor of the Western Province of Sri Lanka and Special Envoy of the President for Foreign Investment, on Saturday (May 2) highlighted the partnership between India and Sri Lanka while delivering his keynote address at the Zee Media and WION’s Global Innovation & Leadership Summit in Colombo. Hailing the relations between the two nations, Yusoof said that the two nations “do not coexist but grow together.” He also said that the ties between India and Sri Lanka were “written in the footsteps.” “We, India and Sri Lanka, do not coexist but grow together. Sri Lanka has been more than an island, but always an Idea. A bridge between civilisations, the ties between India and Sri Lanka were written in the footsteps,” he said. Yusoof added, “India is the great engine of the 21st century. India represents volume, while Sri Lanka represents velocity. India is the world’s greatest growth story, and Sri Lanka has the potential to become one of its strongest partners. Sri Lanka can emerge as one of the best strategic partnerships in the world, a place to build, a place to scale, and a strategic platform for global growth.” He further said that Sri Lanka can rise with India, not as a dependent nation but as a trusted partner and an extension of India’s strength. “Sri Lanka must be seen as a strategic platform for growth, innovation, and regional cooperation,” he said. He further said that Sri offers India “proximity without complexity”. He added that Sri Lanka understands India not because we study India, but because we have grown alongside India in many ways. “Come not only to sell in Sri Lanka, but also to build in Sri Lanka. Let us not merely inherit history, let us create a lasting legacy together,” said Yusoof.

Sri Lanka’s Western Province Governor Hanif Yusoof praised India ties, calling both nations growth partners. He urged deeper collaboration, positioning Sri Lanka as a strategic hub for innovation and global expansion.

‘Trusted partner’: Hanif Yusoof hails India-Sri Lanka relations at WION Global Innovation & Leadership Summit

India-Sri Lanka relations are strengthening across multiple sectors, Sri Lankan MP and economist Harsha de Silva said, highlighting growing cooperation in energy, defence and economic integration. Speaking at the Zee Media global innovation summit in Colombo, de Silva pointed to the India-backed ambulance service as a key memory of the India-Sri Lanka relationship over the past decade. “Every ambulance says ‘a gift from the people of India’-it is one of the most efficient and widely appreciated public services in Sri Lanka,” said de Silva, adding that the service handles 1000 emergency cases daily, with more than covering nearly 28,000 km. De Silva suggested that Indian rapid economic growth opens up opportunities for both Indians and Sri Lankans. He urged that even though there should be an economic relationship, India should consider Sri Lanka a partner. He highlighted key areas of collaboration, such as energy, defence, digital payments (UPI), contract manufacturing and circular economy.&nbsp;Discussing the ongoing energy crisis due to the war in West Asia, de Silva pointed out that the focus needs to be on alternative sources of energy, specifically focusing on efficiency in generation, transmission and distribution, rather than just capacity. He referred to proposals such as cross-border power connectivity, including an HVDC link, as well as potential energy infrastructure like pipelines. He noted that geopolitical developments, including tensions in West Asia, could push both countries to accelerate such cooperation.He highlighted that India-Sri Lanka had that the partnership that was rooted in cultural and historical links. &nbsp;These relationships were primarily managed by powerful South Indian merchant guilds and specialised banking communities like the Nattukottai Chettiars even before the colonial era. He also pointed to future possibilities such as financial, banking, and defence, adding that India and “Sri Lanka must act as a serious partner in ensuring security in the region.”

Sri Lankan MP Harsha de Silva says India-Sri Lanka ties are strengthening, with cooperation expanding in energy, defence, digital payments and economic integration.

India-Sri Lanka relations are strengthening across multiple sectors, Sri Lankan MP and economist Harsha de Silva said, highlighting growing cooperation in energy, defence and economic integration. Speaking at the Zee Media global innovation summit in Colombo, de Silva pointed to the India-backed ambulance service as a key memory of the India-Sri Lanka relationship over the past decade. “Every ambulance says ‘a gift from the people of India’-it is one of the most efficient and widely appreciated public services in Sri Lanka,” said de Silva, adding that the service handles 1000 emergency cases daily, with more than covering nearly 28,000 km. De Silva suggested that Indian rapid economic growth opens up opportunities for both Indians and Sri Lankans. He urged that even though there should be an economic relationship, India should consider Sri Lanka a partner. He highlighted key areas of collaboration, such as energy, defence, digital payments (UPI), contract manufacturing and circular economy. Discussing the ongoing energy crisis due to the war in West Asia, de Silva pointed out that the focus needs to be on alternative sources of energy, specifically focusing on efficiency in generation, transmission and distribution, rather than just capacity. He referred to proposals such as cross-border power connectivity, including an HVDC link, as well as potential energy infrastructure like pipelines. He noted that geopolitical developments, including tensions in West Asia, could push both countries to accelerate such cooperation. He highlighted that India-Sri Lanka had that the partnership that was rooted in cultural and historical links. These relationships were primarily managed by powerful South Indian merchant guilds and specialised banking communities like the Nattukottai Chettiars even before the colonial era. He also pointed to future possibilities such as financial, banking, and defence, adding that India and “Sri Lanka must act as a serious partner in ensuring security in the region.”

Sri Lankan MP Harsha de Silva says India-Sri Lanka ties are strengthening, with cooperation expanding in energy, defence, digital payments and economic integration.

India-Sri Lanka ties deepening across energy, defence and trade, says MP Harsha de Silva

US media outlet The New York Times has filed a petition to a federal court to release a long-sealed suicide note purportedly written by Jeffrey Epstein. The document was reportedly hidden for more than seven years. It was first discovered by Epstein's cellmate Nicholas Tartaglione in July 2019, one month before Epstein’s death.&nbsp;<h2>What does the suicide note contain?</h2>&nbsp;The note was reportedly written on yellow legal pad paper and tucked inside a graphic novel in their shared cell at the Metropolitan Correctional Centre. It was never revealed by the investigator as part of the probe into Epstein's death. The note became the basis of the criminal case of Nicholas Tartaglione, and a Federal judge later sealed the note as part of the attorney-client privilege in Tartaglione's unrelated case.&nbsp;According to Epstein's cellmate, the note had contained the phrase "time to say goodbye" and a message stating that investigators had "found nothing", later stating: “What do you want me to do, bust out crying? Time to say goodbye.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidents-war-powers-act-trump-iran-congress-1777704648963">From Nixon to Trump: How US presidents have sidestepped Congress on war powers</a><h2>Why has this become relevant now?</h2>Tartaglione, a former police officer then serving four life sentences, said he found the note in federal prison in California, when Epstein was moved to a different part of the Metropolitan Correctional Centre for suicide watch. According to jail records from July 23, 2019, when Epstein was found on the floor with red marks and bruising on his neck, he initially told guards that Tartaglione had tried to kill him. Another important piece of the puzzle was in the DOJ documents, a two-page "Chronology" found within the 3.5 million records recently disclosed by the Department of Justice. The document claims that NT (Nicholas Tartaglione) found the note somewhere between July 23 and July 27, 2019, after guards had thoroughly searched the cells. Surprisingly, DOJ officials, as reported by the NYT, claimed that they had not seen the note. The note has now become a matter of significant public record.&nbsp;"My lawyers at the time wanted to make sure, you know, I didn’t write it,” Tartaglione said in a July 2025 podcast interview. A guard said Tartaglione was not permitted to go to his cell to retrieve the note. Tartaglione’s lawyer, Bruce Barket, told his client to give it to the next lawyer who visited him. That second lawyer, John Wieder, and Barket tried to authenticate the note. However its unclear how they authenticated the note.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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The New York Times has petitioned a federal court to unseal Jeffrey Epstein’s alleged suicide note. Here’s what the note reportedly contains and why it matters now.

US media outlet The New York Times has filed a petition to a federal court to release a long-sealed suicide note purportedly written by Jeffrey Epstein. The document was reportedly hidden for more than seven years. It was first discovered by Epstein's cellmate Nicholas Tartaglione in July 2019, one month before Epstein’s death. What does the suicide note contain? The note was reportedly written on yellow legal pad paper and tucked inside a graphic novel in their shared cell at the Metropolitan Correctional Centre. It was never revealed by the investigator as part of the probe into Epstein's death. The note became the basis of the criminal case of Nicholas Tartaglione, and a Federal judge later sealed the note as part of the attorney-client privilege in Tartaglione's unrelated case. According to Epstein's cellmate, the note had contained the phrase "time to say goodbye" and a message stating that investigators had "found nothing", later stating: “What do you want me to do, bust out crying? Time to say goodbye.” Also Read: From Nixon to Trump: How US presidents have sidestepped Congress on war powers Why has this become relevant now? Tartaglione, a former police officer then serving four life sentences, said he found the note in federal prison in California, when Epstein was moved to a different part of the Metropolitan Correctional Centre for suicide watch. According to jail records from July 23, 2019, when Epstein was found on the floor with red marks and bruising on his neck, he initially told guards that Tartaglione had tried to kill him. Another important piece of the puzzle was in the DOJ documents, a two-page "Chronology" found within the 3.5 million records recently disclosed by the Department of Justice. The document claims that NT (Nicholas Tartaglione) found the note somewhere between July 23 and July 27, 2019, after guards had thoroughly searched the cells. Surprisingly, DOJ officials, as reported by the NYT, claimed that they had not seen the note. The note has now become a matter of significant public record. "My lawyers at the time wanted to make sure, you know, I didn’t write it,” Tartaglione said in a July 2025 podcast interview. A guard said Tartaglione was not permitted to go to his cell to retrieve the note. Tartaglione’s lawyer, Bruce Barket, told his client to give it to the next lawyer who visited him. That second lawyer, John Wieder, and Barket tried to authenticate the note. However its unclear how they authenticated the note.

The New York Times has petitioned a federal court to unseal Jeffrey Epstein’s alleged suicide note. Here’s what the note reportedly contains and why it matters now.

Epstein’s sealed suicide note: What it says and why it’s resurfacing now

Low-cost American carrier Spirit Airlines on Saturday (May 2) said that it has cancelled all flights as part of an “orderly wind-down of operations”, citing a sharp rise in jet fuel prices. This comes after the airline, which had been preparing to emerge from its second bankruptcy in a year, failed to secure a White House bailout. Its parent company, Spirit Aviation Holdings, confirmed that the shutdown is effective immediately.In a statement, the airlines said, “It is with great disappointment that Spirit Airlines has started winding down its global operations, effective immediately. All flights have been cancelled, and customer service is no longer available.”Spirit Airlines added that while they cannot help rebook flights with another airline, they will issue refunds for any flights purchased through Spirit.“While we are not able to help rebook your flight on another airline, we will automatically process refunds for any flights purchased through Spirit with a credit or debit card to the original form of payment,” the statement added.The airlines said, “We are proud of the impact of our ultra-low-cost model on the industry for the last 33 years and had hoped to serve our Guests for many years to come.”<h2>Why is Spirit Airlines shutting down?</h2>Fuel prices have surged dramatically in recent weeks following escalating tensions linked to Iran, placing significant financial strain on airlines. Spirit’s President and CEO Dave Davis said the company had “reached an agreement with our bondholders on a restructuring plan that would have allowed us to emerge as a go-forward business.”He added, “However, the sudden and sustained rise in fuel prices in recent weeks ultimately has left us with no alternative but to pursue an orderly wind-down of the Company.”“Sustaining the business required hundreds of millions of additional dollars of liquidity that Spirit simply does not have and could not procure. This is tremendously disappointing and not the outcome any of us wanted,” he said.<h2>‘Final proposal’</h2>US President Donald Trump said the airline had been given a “final proposal” for a bailout, but indicated support would depend on whether it was a viable deal.Meanwhile, rival carriers have stepped in to reduce disruption. American Airlines is offering discounted “rescue fares” on affected routes, while United Airlines is providing price-capped one-way tickets from cities previously served by Spirit.Founded in 1992, Spirit Airlines became known for its ultra-low-cost model and distinctive yellow planes. As of 2024, it employed over 11,000 people, making its shutdown a significant blow to the aviation sector.

Spirit Airlines cancelled all flights and began shutdown due to soaring fuel costs and a failed bailout, with CEO saying the airline had no funding to continue operations.

Low-cost American carrier Spirit Airlines on Saturday (May 2) said that it has cancelled all flights as part of an “orderly wind-down of operations”, citing a sharp rise in jet fuel prices. This comes after the airline, which had been preparing to emerge from its second bankruptcy in a year, failed to secure a White House bailout. Its parent company, Spirit Aviation Holdings, confirmed that the shutdown is effective immediately. In a statement, the airlines said, “It is with great disappointment that Spirit Airlines has started winding down its global operations, effective immediately. All flights have been cancelled, and customer service is no longer available.” Spirit Airlines added that while they cannot help rebook flights with another airline, they will issue refunds for any flights purchased through Spirit. “While we are not able to help rebook your flight on another airline, we will automatically process refunds for any flights purchased through Spirit with a credit or debit card to the original form of payment,” the statement added. The airlines said, “We are proud of the impact of our ultra-low-cost model on the industry for the last 33 years and had hoped to serve our Guests for many years to come.” Why is Spirit Airlines shutting down? Fuel prices have surged dramatically in recent weeks following escalating tensions linked to Iran, placing significant financial strain on airlines. Spirit’s President and CEO Dave Davis said the company had “reached an agreement with our bondholders on a restructuring plan that would have allowed us to emerge as a go-forward business.” He added, “However, the sudden and sustained rise in fuel prices in recent weeks ultimately has left us with no alternative but to pursue an orderly wind-down of the Company.” “Sustaining the business required hundreds of millions of additional dollars of liquidity that Spirit simply does not have and could not procure. This is tremendously disappointing and not the outcome any of us wanted,” he said. ‘Final proposal’ US President Donald Trump said the airline had been given a “final proposal” for a bailout, but indicated support would depend on whether it was a viable deal. Meanwhile, rival carriers have stepped in to reduce disruption. American Airlines is offering discounted “rescue fares” on affected routes, while United Airlines is providing price-capped one-way tickets from cities previously served by Spirit. Founded in 1992, Spirit Airlines became known for its ultra-low-cost model and distinctive yellow planes. As of 2024, it employed over 11,000 people, making its shutdown a significant blow to the aviation sector.

Spirit Airlines cancelled all flights and began a shutdown due to soaring fuel costs and a failed bailout, with the CEO saying the airline had no funding to continue operations.

‘No alternative’: Spirit Airlines ‘winding down’ operations amid fuel crisis

Michelle and Lavinia Osbourne have always known they were twins. They were born within minutes of each other, to the same mother, but it turns out they don't share the same father. The Osbourne twins didn't find out this shocking truth until they took a DNA test. They were conceived naturally, grew together in the same womb, and were born to the same mother within minutes of each other, but they are half-sisters. But how is that even possible? The answer is a rare phenomenon called heteropaternal superfecundation.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-bans-abortion-pill-by-mail-federal-court-s-mifepristone-ruling-turns-back-the-clock-on-life-saving-healthcare-in-pics-1777697099793">US bans abortion Mifepristone pill: Critics warn of 'immediate chaos' | In pics</a><h2>UK's first recorded case of twins with different dads</h2>The 49-year-old Osbourne twins are officially the United Kingdom's first recorded case of heteropaternal superfecundation, a biological phenomenon so rare that fewer than 20 cases have ever been documented worldwide.Speaking on a new series of BBC Radio 4's The Gift, the sisters told journalist Jenny Kleeman how they came to learn the truth about their origins. "We're miracles," they said. They came to know about their origins as recently as 2022.<h2>What is heteropaternal superfecundation?</h2>Heteropaternal superfecundation occurs when a woman releases more than one egg during a single menstrual cycle, the same process behind fraternal twins, but the eggs are fertilised by sperm from two different men.For this to happen, two acts of intercourse with different partners must occur within a roughly five-day window, since sperm can survive in the reproductive tract for up to five days while eggs remain viable for only 12 to 24 hours after release. The timing has to align almost perfectly, which is part of why it happens so rarely.Most cases are never detected at all. The phenomenon tends to come to light only when twins look noticeably different from each other, different skin tones, for instance, or when a paternity dispute triggers DNA testing.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bargi-dam-cruise-boat-tragedy-heartbreaking-photo-of-mother-and-son-clinging-to-each-other-fake-jabalpur-collector-says-ai-generated-1777701429547">Bargi Dam cruise boat tragedy: Heartbreaking photo of mother and son clinging to each other fake? Jabalpur collector says...</a><h2>One in 400</h2>A case in Brazil in 2022 became international news when a young woman discovered that only one of her twins matched the man she believed to be the father. Further testing revealed two different fathers. Cases like that one are typically stumbled upon by accident rather than by design. Estimates suggest heteropaternal superfecundation might occur in roughly one in every 400 fraternal twin births in the United States, though the vast majority go undetected and unrecorded.

Can twins really share the same mother, birthday and womb, but have different fathers? As bizarre as it sounds, science says yes. The UK has recorded its first-ever case of this rare biological phenomenon. All you need to know.

Michelle and Lavinia Osbourne have always known they were twins. They were born within minutes of each other, to the same mother, but it turns out they don't share the same father. The Osbourne twins didn't find out this shocking truth until they took a DNA test. They were conceived naturally, grew together in the same womb, and were born to the same mother within minutes of each other, but they are half-sisters. But how is that even possible? The answer is a rare phenomenon called heteropaternal superfecundation. Also read | US bans abortion Mifepristone pill: Critics warn of 'immediate chaos' | In pics UK's first recorded case of twins with different dads The 49-year-old Osbourne twins are officially the United Kingdom's first recorded case of heteropaternal superfecundation, a biological phenomenon so rare that fewer than 20 cases have ever been documented worldwide. Speaking on a new series of BBC Radio 4's The Gift, the sisters told journalist Jenny Kleeman how they came to learn the truth about their origins. "We're miracles," they said. They came to know about their origins as recently as 2022. What is heteropaternal superfecundation? Heteropaternal superfecundation occurs when a woman releases more than one egg during a single menstrual cycle, the same process behind fraternal twins, but the eggs are fertilised by sperm from two different men. For this to happen, two acts of intercourse with different partners must occur within a roughly five-day window, since sperm can survive in the reproductive tract for up to five days while eggs remain viable for only 12 to 24 hours after release. The timing has to align almost perfectly, which is part of why it happens so rarely. Most cases are never detected at all. The phenomenon tends to come to light only when twins look noticeably different from each other, different skin tones, for instance, or when a paternity dispute triggers DNA testing. Also read | Bargi Dam cruise boat tragedy: Heartbreaking photo of mother and son clinging to each other fake? Jabalpur collector says... One in 400 A case in Brazil in 2022 became international news when a young woman discovered that only one of her twins matched the man she believed to be the father. Further testing revealed two different fathers. Cases like that one are typically stumbled upon by accident rather than by design. Estimates suggest heteropaternal superfecundation might occur in roughly one in every 400 fraternal twin births in the United States, though the vast majority go undetected and unrecorded.

Can twins really share the same mother, birthday and womb, but have different fathers? As bizarre as it sounds, science says yes. The UK has recorded its first-ever case of this rare biological phenomenon. All you need to know.

They thought they were identical sisters, DNA test revealed different fathers; UK records first case of rare biological phenomenon

Leader of the Opposition of Sri Lanka, and founder and leader of Samagi Jana Balawegaya Sajith Premadasa, while speaking at WION’s Global Innovation and Leadership Summit held in Colombo on Saturday (May 2) said that his country believes in nurturing its relations with India. He also backed India's bid for a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council.&nbsp;Speaking at the event Premadasa said "We believe in nurturing strategic ties with India." He then said, "Sri Lanka strongly backs India’s bid for a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council."<h2>Premadasa urges India to play larger role</h2>In the face of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East he said, "The ongoing conflicts in West Asia and the Middle East, along with the deeply concerning spillover of military hostilities into the Indian Ocean region, serve as a stark reminder of our shared vulnerabilities."&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bargi-dam-cruise-boat-tragedy-heartbreaking-photo-of-mother-and-son-clinging-to-each-other-fake-jabalpur-collector-says-ai-generated-1777701429547">Bargi Dam cruise boat tragedy: Heartbreaking photo of mother and son clinging to each other fake? Jabalpur collector says...</a>&nbsp;Given the security scenario, Premadas urged India to play a larger role to “maintain long-term peace across the South Asian region.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;Sri Lanka has navigated its way through an unprecedented economic crucible. We have weathered the storms, borne the hardships of structural reforms and emerged with a resilient, stabilized macroeconomic foundation. Now the era of near recovery is behind us,&quot; says Sajith… <a href="https://t.co/ntDoHWQKAe">pic.twitter.com/ntDoHWQKAe</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2050503316896141312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"In this volatile climate, India’s role is absolutely indispensable for ensuring security, enforcing stability, and maintaining long-term peace across the South Asian region. The Global South must work together to democratise access to artificial intelligence infrastructure," said Premadas at WION's Leadership Summit.&nbsp;He also said that economic crisis faced by Sri Lanka in the recent years is a thing of the past and his country has entered an "era of near recovery".&nbsp;"Sri Lanka has navigated its way through an unprecedented economic crucible. We have weathered the storms, borne the hardships of structural reforms and emerged with a resilient, stabilized macroeconomic foundation. Now the era of near recovery is behind us," said Sajith Premadasa

Given the security scenario, Premadas urged India to play a larger role to maintain long-term peace across the South Asian region.

Leader of the Opposition of Sri Lanka, and founder and leader of Samagi Jana Balawegaya Sajith Premadasa, while speaking at WION’s Global Innovation and Leadership Summit held in Colombo on Saturday (May 2) said that his country believes in nurturing its relations with India. He also backed India's bid for a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council. Speaking at the event Premadasa said "We believe in nurturing strategic ties with India." He then said, "Sri Lanka strongly backs India’s bid for a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council." Premadasa urges India to play larger role In the face of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East he said, "The ongoing conflicts in West Asia and the Middle East, along with the deeply concerning spillover of military hostilities into the Indian Ocean region, serve as a stark reminder of our shared vulnerabilities." ALSO READ: Bargi Dam cruise boat tragedy: Heartbreaking photo of mother and son clinging to each other fake? Jabalpur collector says... Given the security scenario, Premadas urged India to play a larger role to “maintain long-term peace across the South Asian region.”

Given the security scenario, Premadas urged India to play a larger role to "maintain long-term peace across the South Asian region.

WION summit: Sri Lanka backs India's bid for permanent UNSC seat, says opposition leader Sajith Premadasa

Hours after United States President Donald Trump ordered the withdrawal of 5,000 US troops from Germany, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius on Saturday (May 2) acknowledged that the presence of US forces in Europe especially Germany is in "our interest and US." He, however, stressed the need for European countries to take larger responsibility of security in the region.&nbsp;"Presence of US soldiers in Europe and especially Germany is in our interest and of US," said Pistorius and added, &nbsp;"It was foreseeable that US would withdraw troops from Europe, including Germany".&nbsp;He then pressed on the need for European countries to take control of their own security."We European must take greater responsibility for our security. Germany is growing its armed forces, procuring more equipment more quickly, building more infrastructure," said Pistorius.&nbsp;"For all future missions, we will coordinate closely with our allies, for example within group of five which is Britain, France, Poland and Italy," he further added.<h2>Germany is the largest American military hub in Europe</h2>&nbsp;The Pentagon has long said its strategic goal of shifting Europe toward greater responsibility is for its own conventional defense while gradually reducing the American military footprint on the continent.&nbsp;Germany currently hosts more than 36,000 US troops, making it the largest American military hub in Europe. These forces have been critical for operations projecting US power into the Middle East, with key bases supporting logistics and refueling missions for Operation Epic Fury, the US campaign against Iran.&nbsp;The cuts would return US troop levels in Europe to their 2022 levels, before Russia invaded Ukraine. The move follows earlier reductions, including the withdrawal of a combat brigade from Romania.&nbsp;Trump has also floated potential troop reductions in Spain and Italy, criticizing Spain for insufficient defense spending and objecting to its refusal to support US operations against Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Germany is the largest American military hub in Europe. These forces have been critical for operations projecting US power into the Middle East.

Hours after United States President Donald Trump ordered the withdrawal of 5,000 US troops from Germany, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius on Saturday (May 2) acknowledged that the presence of US forces in Europe especially Germany is in "our interest and US." He, however, stressed the need for European countries to take larger responsibility of security in the region. "Presence of US soldiers in Europe and especially Germany is in our interest and of US," said Pistorius and added, "It was foreseeable that US would withdraw troops from Europe, including Germany". He then pressed on the need for European countries to take control of their own security. "We European must take greater responsibility for our security. Germany is growing its armed forces, procuring more equipment more quickly, building more infrastructure," said Pistorius. "For all future missions, we will coordinate closely with our allies, for example within group of five which is Britain, France, Poland and Italy," he further added. Germany is the largest American military hub in Europe The Pentagon has long said its strategic goal of shifting Europe toward greater responsibility is for its own conventional defense while gradually reducing the American military footprint on the continent. Germany currently hosts more than 36,000 US troops, making it the largest American military hub in Europe. These forces have been critical for operations projecting US power into the Middle East, with key bases supporting logistics and refueling missions for Operation Epic Fury, the US campaign against Iran. The cuts would return US troop levels in Europe to their 2022 levels, before Russia invaded Ukraine. The move follows earlier reductions, including the withdrawal of a combat brigade from Romania. Trump has also floated potential troop reductions in Spain and Italy, criticizing Spain for insufficient defense spending and objecting to its refusal to support US operations against Iran.

Germany is the largest American military hub in Europe. These forces have been critical for operations projecting US power into the Middle East.

'We European must take greater responsibility for our security', says German Defence Minister after Trump orders US troop withdrawal

From Jabalpur cruise disaster to SS Ramdas, often called “India’s Titanic,” some of the country’s deadliest boat tragedies share chilling patterns. As fresh grief grips India, these past disasters offer haunting reminders. Scroll down.

From 'India's Titanic' to Jabalpur's Bargi dam: A dark timeline of country's deadliest boat tragedies | In Pics

An Iranian military official on Saturday (May 2) warned of a renewed conflict with the United States as peace talks continue to stall amid tensions. This comes after US President Donald Trump on Friday (May 1) said that he was “not satisfied” with what the Iranians have offered in their new proposal. He also warned Tehran to make a deal with him, threatening to “blast them to hell” if it fails to strike a deal with Washington.&nbsp;“A renewed conflict between Iran and the United States is likely, and evidence has shown that the United States is not committed to any promises or agreements,” Mohammad Jafar Asadi of the military’s central command centre, Khatam al-Anbiya, was quoted as saying by Iran's Fars news agency.<h2>Trump unhappy with Iran proposal</h2>The Iranian state media reported that Tehran had delivered a new proposal to Pakistan on Thursday evening. Following the report, Trump told reporters that he was “not satisfied” with what the Iranians were offering at the moment.Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said, “At this moment I’m not satisfied with what they’re offering.”When asked why was he unsatisfied with the Iranian proposal, Trump responded, “They’re asking for things that I can’t agree.” The US president did not give details on what things the Iranians were asking.Trump also said that Iran had “made strides” in the discussions, but added that there was “tremendous discord” in the Islamic Republic’s leadership. He said, “I’m not sure if they ever get there.”When asked what he would do if Iran fails to strike a deal, Trump said, “Do we want to go and just blast the hell out of them and finish them forever – or do we want to try and make a deal? I mean, those are the options.”The Republican president added that he would “prefer not” to launch a huge offensive against Tehran, but warned, “That’s the option: do we want to go in there heavy and just blast them away or do we want to do something?”<h2>Trump briefed on ‘final blow’?</h2>According to an Axios report, Trump was briefed by CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper on new plans for a potential military action against Iran on Thursday (Apr 30). It added that the US president was “seriously considering” resuming major combat operations in Iran amid stalled talks or to deliver a “final blow” before ending the war.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

An Iranian official warned of possible renewed conflict with the US as stalled talks raise tensions. This follows Donald Trump’s threat to act militarily if Tehran fails to reach a deal.

An Iranian military official on Saturday (May 2) warned of a renewed conflict with the United States as peace talks continue to stall amid tensions. This comes after US President Donald Trump on Friday (May 1) said that he was “not satisfied” with what the Iranians have offered in their new proposal. He also warned Tehran to make a deal with him, threatening to “blast them to hell” if it fails to strike a deal with Washington. “A renewed conflict between Iran and the United States is likely, and evidence has shown that the United States is not committed to any promises or agreements,” Mohammad Jafar Asadi of the military’s central command centre, Khatam al-Anbiya, was quoted as saying by Iran's Fars news agency. Trump unhappy with Iran proposal The Iranian state media reported that Tehran had delivered a new proposal to Pakistan on Thursday evening. Following the report, Trump told reporters that he was “not satisfied” with what the Iranians were offering at the moment. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said, “At this moment I’m not satisfied with what they’re offering.” When asked why was he unsatisfied with the Iranian proposal, Trump responded, “They’re asking for things that I can’t agree.” The US president did not give details on what things the Iranians were asking. Trump also said that Iran had “made strides” in the discussions, but added that there was “tremendous discord” in the Islamic Republic’s leadership. He said, “I’m not sure if they ever get there.” When asked what he would do if Iran fails to strike a deal, Trump said, “Do we want to go and just blast the hell out of them and finish them forever – or do we want to try and make a deal? I mean, those are the options.” The Republican president added that he would “prefer not” to launch a huge offensive against Tehran, but warned, “That’s the option: do we want to go in there heavy and just blast them away or do we want to do something?” Trump briefed on ‘final blow’? According to an Axios report, Trump was briefed by CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper on new plans for a potential military action against Iran on Thursday (Apr 30). It added that the US president was “seriously considering” resuming major combat operations in Iran amid stalled talks or to deliver a “final blow” before ending the war. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

An Iranian official warned of possible renewed conflict with the US as stalled talks raise tensions. This follows Donald Trump’s threat to act militarily if Tehran fails to reach a deal.

‘Renewed war’ between US and Iran likely? Iranian official’s BIG warning as talks stall

US President Donald Trump has insisted he does not need congressional approval to continue the war with Iran. He said that previously, presidents never sought congressional approval, bypassed the War Powers Act, reinterpreting what constitutes "hostilities". As the critical 60-day deadline expired on Friday, Trump said that using the War Powers Act to restrict the President's power is largely "unconstitutional". Trump and his Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth contend that the deadline clock paused when the current ceasefire came into effect.&nbsp;"So many presidents, as you know, have gone and exceeded it," said Trump, "It's never been used. It's never been adhered to." &nbsp;Regardless, some of Trump's recent predecessors sought to comply with war powers authority vested in Congress, whereas some found loopholes to bypass it. The War Powers Act was passed in 1973 to limit the ability of then-President Richard Nixon to wage war in Vietnam.&nbsp;<h2>US President who won authorisation</h2>US President George HW Bush famously sought congressional approval and got it in 1991 for the Gulf War. But he maintained that he did not need it. The 1991 Authorisation for Use of Military Force (AUMF) remain in record till 2023, when it was repealed by Congress. His son George W. Bush won approval for the wars he waged in Afghanistan in 2001 and Iraq in 2003. In 1983, US President Ronald Regan won authorisation for the deployment of Marines to Lebanon, despite largely resisting the War Powers Resolutions throughout his term.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-banksy-statue-meaning-central-london-how-installed-1777698440620">Who is Banksy? How the artist secretly installed a statue in central London</a><h2>US President who avoided authorisation&nbsp;</h2>Bill Clinton in 1999 avoided authorisation and carried out a 78-day bombing campaign in Kosovo, suggesting that the law was broadly unconstitutional. Similarly, in 2011, Barack Obama intervened in Libya, without any authorisation from Congress, arguing that it was a joint NATO operation and no US ground troops were deployed. While Joe Biden did not start a war and moved away from Afghanistan, he went on to carry out strikes in Yemen, Syria and Iraq, supported war efforts in Israel and Ukraine, which were smaller in scale, bending the necessity of the War Powers Resolution.&nbsp;

Trump’s Iran stance revives a long history of US presidents bypassing Congress under the War Powers Act. Here’s how leaders from Nixon to Biden navigated it.

US President Donald Trump has insisted he does not need congressional approval to continue the war with Iran. He said that previously, presidents never sought congressional approval, bypassed the War Powers Act, reinterpreting what constitutes "hostilities". As the critical 60-day deadline expired on Friday, Trump said that using the War Powers Act to restrict the President's power is largely "unconstitutional". Trump and his Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth contend that the deadline clock paused when the current ceasefire came into effect. "So many presidents, as you know, have gone and exceeded it," said Trump, "It's never been used. It's never been adhered to." Regardless, some of Trump's recent predecessors sought to comply with war powers authority vested in Congress, whereas some found loopholes to bypass it. The War Powers Act was passed in 1973 to limit the ability of then-President Richard Nixon to wage war in Vietnam. US President who won authorisation US President George HW Bush famously sought congressional approval and got it in 1991 for the Gulf War. But he maintained that he did not need it. The 1991 Authorisation for Use of Military Force (AUMF) remain in record till 2023, when it was repealed by Congress. His son George W. Bush won approval for the wars he waged in Afghanistan in 2001 and Iraq in 2003. In 1983, US President Ronald Regan won authorisation for the deployment of Marines to Lebanon, despite largely resisting the War Powers Resolutions throughout his term. Also Read: Who is Banksy? How the artist secretly installed a statue in central London US President who avoided authorisation Bill Clinton in 1999 avoided authorisation and carried out a 78-day bombing campaign in Kosovo, suggesting that the law was broadly unconstitutional. Similarly, in 2011, Barack Obama intervened in Libya, without any authorisation from Congress, arguing that it was a joint NATO operation and no US ground troops were deployed. While Joe Biden did not start a war and moved away from Afghanistan, he went on to carry out strikes in Yemen, Syria and Iraq, supported war efforts in Israel and Ukraine, which were smaller in scale, bending the necessity of the War Powers Resolution.

Trump’s Iran stance revives a long history of US presidents bypassing Congress under the War Powers Act. Here’s how leaders from Nixon to Biden navigated it.

From Nixon to Trump: How US presidents have sidestepped Congress on war powers

United States President Donald Trump while speaking at the Forum Club of the Palm Beaches in Florida on Friday (May 1) jokingly said that the US would be "taking over" Cuba "almost immediately." He said "Cuba’s got problems. We’ll finish one first. I like to finish a job."&nbsp;Trump then boasted about American force's power saying, “On the way back from Iran, we’ll have one of our big — maybe the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier — the biggest in the world.”&nbsp;“We’ll have that come in, stop about 100 yards offshore, and they’ll say, ‘Thank you very much, we give up.’”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">NEW: President Trump appears to joke about taking over Cuba &quot;on the way back from Iran.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/ZxdgUgEMyZ">pic.twitter.com/ZxdgUgEMyZ</a>&mdash; Fox News (@FoxNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/FoxNews/status/2050386590195724364?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Trump's earlier statements on Cuba</h2>&nbsp;This is not the first time that Trump has threatened action against Cuba. Last month, he said Cuba will be "next" after the military operation against Iran and it will fail soon.Trump called the country a "mess" and said that the "Cuba is going to be next," in reply to a question posed by reporters.&nbsp;"It's a failing country, and they're going to be next. Within a short period of time, it's going to fail, and we will be there to help it out. We'll be there to help our great Cuban Americans out," he added.&nbsp;Cuba, a country situated 90 miles from Florida is reeling under sanctions by Washington.Earlier too Trump has described Cuba as being "in a bad shape" and a "weakened nation." He's also gone as far as saying he'll have "the honor of taking Cuba".&nbsp;

Trump also boasted about American forces power saying, On the way back from Iran, we’ll have one of our big — maybe the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier — the biggest in the world.

United States President Donald Trump while speaking at the Forum Club of the Palm Beaches in Florida on Friday (May 1) jokingly said that the US would be "taking over" Cuba "almost immediately." He said "Cuba’s got problems. We’ll finish one first. I like to finish a job." Trump then boasted about American force's power saying, “On the way back from Iran, we’ll have one of our big — maybe the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier — the biggest in the world.” “We’ll have that come in, stop about 100 yards offshore, and they’ll say, ‘Thank you very much, we give up.’”

Trump also boasted about American force's power saying, “On the way back from Iran, we’ll have one of our big — maybe the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier — the biggest in the world.”

WATCH: Trump jokes US will 'take over' Cuba 'almost immediately' after finishing with Iran

How did Banksy install a statue in central London without permission? A look at the artist’s guerrilla tactics, his identity, and interpretation of his artwork

Who is Banksy? How the artist secretly installed a statue in central London

A US federal appeals court has just made it significantly harder for women to access the most common method of abortion in the United States: Mifepristone. Here's all you need to know.

US bans abortion pill by mail: Federal court's Mifepristone ruling turns back the clock on life-saving healthcare | In pics

Amid its war with Iran, Unites States has approved military sales worth over $8.6 billion to its Middle Eastern allies - Israel, Qatar, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates. It is being seen as a move by Washington to deepen strategic ties in a volatile region. The US-Iran war is in its ninth week since its start in February and more ​than three weeks of the fragile ceasefire.&nbsp;The arms sales approval by the State Department includes Patriot ⁠air ‌and missile defense replenishment services costing $4.01 billion to Qatar. It has also sanctioned Advanced Precision Kill Weapon ‌Systems (APKWS) costing $992.4 million, reported AFP.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-says-us-blockade-has-cost-iran-4-8-billion-in-oil-losses-1777675968751">Pentagon says US blockade has cost Iran $4.8 billion in oil losses</a>&nbsp;While an integrated battle command system costing $2.5 billion has been approved for Kuwait and Advanced Precision ‌Kill Weapon Systems costing $992.4 million for Israel.&nbsp;Advanced Precision Kill Weapon ‌Systems worth $992.4 million has been approved by United States.&nbsp;RTX and Lockheed Martin are the main contractors in the integrated battle command system sale to Kuwait and in the Patriot air and missile defense replenishment sale to ​Qatar, the State Department added.<h2>Trump rejects Iran's proposal</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Trump has said he is "not satisfied" with Iran’s latest proposal of ending the war. In fact he reiterated that US is “not going to leave” the war “early” without achieving US objectives.&nbsp;“We’re not going to leave early and have this kind of problem arise in three more years,” Trump said.&nbsp;Earlier, Iran foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran remains open to diplomacy if Washington stops its “expansionist approach” and “threatening rhetoric”.&nbsp;

Integrated battle command system costing $2.5 billion has been approved by the US State Department for Kuwait and Advanced Precision ‌Kill Weapon Systems for Israel.

Amid its war with Iran, Unites States has approved military sales worth over $8.6 billion to its Middle Eastern allies - Israel, Qatar, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates. It is being seen as a move by Washington to deepen strategic ties in a volatile region. The US-Iran war is in its ninth week since its start in February and more than three weeks of the fragile ceasefire. The arms sales approval by the State Department includes Patriot ⁠air ‌and missile defense replenishment services costing $4.01 billion to Qatar. It has also sanctioned Advanced Precision Kill Weapon ‌Systems (APKWS) costing $992.4 million, reported AFP. ALSO READ: Pentagon says US blockade has cost Iran $4.8 billion in oil losses While an integrated battle command system costing $2.5 billion has been approved for Kuwait and Advanced Precision ‌Kill Weapon Systems costing $992.4 million for Israel. Advanced Precision Kill Weapon ‌Systems worth $992.4 million has been approved by United States. RTX and Lockheed Martin are the main contractors in the integrated battle command system sale to Kuwait and in the Patriot air and missile defense replenishment sale to Qatar, the State Department added. Trump rejects Iran's proposal Meanwhile, Trump has said he is "not satisfied" with Iran’s latest proposal of ending the war. In fact he reiterated that US is “not going to leave” the war “early” without achieving US objectives. “We’re not going to leave early and have this kind of problem arise in three more years,” Trump said. Earlier, Iran foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran remains open to diplomacy if Washington stops its “expansionist approach” and “threatening rhetoric”.

Integrated battle command system costing $2.5 billion has been approved by the US State Department for Kuwait and Advanced Precision ‌Kill Weapon Systems for Israel.

Patriot missiles to Advanced Precision Kill Weapon ‌Systems, US approves $8.6 billion military sales to Middle East allies

A video showing a man violently attacking a French Catholic nun on a Jerusalem street has sparked widespread outrage and drawn condemnation from Israel's foreign ministry, the French consulate and academic institutions. While Israel has denounced the attack as a "shameful act," France has called for the "perpetrator of the aggression to be brought to justice for this act and for justice to be served". What happened? Here's all we know.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-not-presidential-trump-confesses-melania-hates-his-dancing-to-gay-national-anthem-ymca-but-does-it-anyway-watch-viral-video-1777688628294">'Not presidential': Trump confesses Melania hates his dancing to 'gay national anthem' but does it anyway | WATCH viral video</a><h2>Chilling video shows deranged attack</h2>The footage shows the attacker running up behind the nun, a researcher at the French School of Biblical and Archaeological Research, and shoving her to the ground with enough force that she nearly struck her head on a stone block. After walking away briefly, the attacker can be seen returning to kick the nun as she lies on the ground, stopping only when a passerby intervenes. While authorities are yet to release the attacker's name, social media posts claim he is a ‘Jewish extremist’ named Yonah Schreiber.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A photo of Yonah Schreiber, the Jewish extremist who attacked a french Catholic nun in Jerusalem a few days ago. <a href="https://t.co/KkswNDxO59">pic.twitter.com/KkswNDxO59</a>&mdash; Ihab Hassan (@IhabHassane) <a href="https://twitter.com/IhabHassane/status/2050244336160211378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The attack took place on Mount Zion, near the site regarded by Jewish tradition as King David's tomb and by Christians as the location of the Last Supper. The nun sustained facial grazes but was not seriously injured. Israeli police have arrested a 36-year-old man in connection with the incident. The Embassy of Iran in Bulgaria has shared a video of the attack. Watch it here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The moment a Zionist extremist attacks a Christian nun in Jerusalem. <a href="https://t.co/1qjFuGXtff">pic.twitter.com/1qjFuGXtff</a>&mdash; Embassy of Iran in Bulgaria (@IRANinBULGARIA) <a href="https://twitter.com/IRANinBULGARIA/status/2050158894492639275?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Condemnation grows over "shameful act"</h2>Israel's foreign ministry called it a "shameful act" that "stands in direct contradiction to the values of respect, coexistence, and religious freedom upon which Israel is founded and to which it remains deeply committed." The French consulate called for the perpetrator to face justice. The director of the French research school, Father Olivier Poquillon, said he expected a firm response from authorities.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-he-was-in-that-very-building-iran-official-confirms-mojtaba-survived-strike-that-killed-ali-khamenei-dismisses-health-rumours-1777627435826">‘He was in that very building’: Iran official REVEALS how Mojtaba survived strike that killed Ali Khamenei</a>The Hebrew University of Jerusalem alleged that the attack was "not an isolated incident, but part of a troubling pattern of rising hostility toward the Christian community and its symbols". The university noted that the victim was "a cherished academic partner in uncovering this land's heritage." It added that "an attack on its scholars is an attack on the global scientific community."<h2>Christian harassment growing?</h2>The Religious Freedom Data Centre, a network of Israeli volunteers that tracks such incidents, recorded 31 cases of harassment against Christians in the first three months of 2026 alone, most involving spitting or defacement of church property. The group acknowledged their figures likely undercount the true scale of the problem, noting that Orthodox congregations in particular tend not to report incidents. One monastery in Mea Shearim told researchers there had been "no significant incidents" before adding: "The truth is, we hardly left the house. At times, when we did go out, children spat and cursed the name of the Lord Jesus. I cannot tell you how many times this occurred."The attack comes on the heels of a video of an Israeli soldier vandalising a statue of Jesus with a sledgehammer in southern Lebanon. He and another soldier who filmed the incident were jailed for 30 days.&nbsp;

A violent street attack on a French Catholic nun in Jerusalem, caught on video, is triggering international outrage and fresh scrutiny over rising hostility toward Christians in the Holy City. All you need to know.

A video showing a man violently attacking a French Catholic nun on a Jerusalem street has sparked widespread outrage and drawn condemnation from Israel's foreign ministry, the French consulate and academic institutions. While Israel has denounced the attack as a "shameful act," France has called for the "perpetrator of the aggression to be brought to justice for this act and for justice to be served". What happened? Here's all we know. Also read | 'Not presidential': Trump confesses Melania hates his dancing to 'gay national anthem' but does it anyway | WATCH viral video Chilling video shows deranged attack The footage shows the attacker running up behind the nun, a researcher at the French School of Biblical and Archaeological Research, and shoving her to the ground with enough force that she nearly struck her head on a stone block. After walking away briefly, the attacker can be seen returning to kick the nun as she lies on the ground, stopping only when a passerby intervenes. While authorities are yet to release the attacker's name, social media posts claim he is a ‘Jewish extremist’ named Yonah Schreiber.

A violent street attack on a French Catholic nun in Jerusalem, caught on video, is triggering international outrage and fresh scrutiny over rising hostility toward Christians in the Holy City. All you need to know.

Caught on camera: Chilling moment a French nun is kicked and beaten by Israeli man near Jerusalem’s Last Supper site | WATCH

An explosion of leftover bombs during the Iran war killed 14 members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and left two others injured, reported the local media on Friday (May 1). The explosion happened in Zanjan Province of northwestern Iran.&nbsp;This is the largest number of IRGC members reported to be killed since the United States and Iran agreed to a ceasefire on April 7. According to Fars News Agency the ammunition included cluster bombs and air mines dropped during the war.&nbsp;Notably, the personnel were part of a specialised team deputed to clear unexploded munitions from the area, said the news agency About 1,200 hectares of agricultural land was impacted by remnants of explosives.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🇮🇷Fourteen members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps were killed and two others injured during an operation to clear unexploded ordnance in Zanjan Province, according to local IRGC officials. <a href="https://t.co/uy45GrBzYy">pic.twitter.com/uy45GrBzYy</a>&mdash; The Caspian Post (@thecaspianpost) <a href="https://twitter.com/thecaspianpost/status/2050290516944887828?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>"Iran has lost nearly $5 billion in oil revenue"</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, the US has continued to build pressure on Iran. The US Defense Department on Friday (April 1) said that Iran has lost nearly $5 billion in oil revenue due to a US blockade in the Gulf of Oman, intensifying economic pressure on Tehran.&nbsp;Officials say the blockade is President Donald Trump’s most powerful tool to push negotiations aimed at ending the war with Iran, even as diplomatic talks continue to stall and restart. Since the operation started on April 13, the US military has redirected more than 40 vessels attempting to move oil and other contraband through the region, according to Pentagon officials.&nbsp;In total, 31 tankers carrying approximately 53 million barrels of Iranian crude are now ‘stuck in the Gulf’, valued at around $4.8 billion, according to the US Defence Department. Two vessels have already been seized by US forces. With storage capacity on land reaching its limits, Iran has reportedly started using older tankers as floating storage units

This is the largest number of IRGC members reported to be killed since the United States and Iran agreed to a ceasefire.

An explosion of leftover bombs during the Iran war killed 14 members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and left two others injured, reported the local media on Friday (May 1). The explosion happened in Zanjan Province of northwestern Iran. This is the largest number of IRGC members reported to be killed since the United States and Iran agreed to a ceasefire on April 7. According to Fars News Agency the ammunition included cluster bombs and air mines dropped during the war. Notably, the personnel were part of a specialised team deputed to clear unexploded munitions from the area, said the news agency About 1,200 hectares of agricultural land was impacted by remnants of explosives.

This is the largest number of IRGC members reported to be killed since the United States and Iran agreed to a ceasefire.

14 Revolutionary Guards members killed after unexploded bombs detonate

Donald Trump has a confession: Melania Trump is not a fan of his signature rally move. Speaking to a crowd at The Villages in Florida, Trump on Friday (May 1) revealed that the first lady objects to his end-of-rally YMCA routine, which he described, to the crowd's amusement, as dancing to "what's sometimes referred to as the gay national anthem." He then proceeded to do exactly that, working through his familiar repertoire of fist pumps, waves and stage movements as the 1978 Village People track filled the arena.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-he-was-in-that-very-building-iran-official-confirms-mojtaba-survived-strike-that-killed-ali-khamenei-dismisses-health-rumours-1777627435826">‘He was in that very building’: Iran official REVEALS Mojtaba survived strike that killed Ali Khamenei, dismisses health rumours</a><h2>"Not presidential"</h2>"She goes, 'Darling, please don't dance. It's not presidential," Trump told the crowd, trying to mimic Melania's voice. “I said, 'It may not be presidential, but I'm leading by 20 points in the polls so it's something.'”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Trump on dancing to YMCA by Village People: “Melania hates when I dance to what’s sometimes referred to as the gay national anthem.” 😭 <a href="https://t.co/z15reN4gCB">pic.twitter.com/z15reN4gCB</a>&mdash; johnny maga (@johnnymaga) <a href="https://twitter.com/johnnymaga/status/2050330441274556594?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

He also noted the song's unlikely chart history, how YMCA peaked at number five decades ago before returning to number one during the final stretch of his last campaign. "There's never been anything like it," he said. Minutes later, he breaks into the dance his wife hates, watch:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨 NOW: President Trump just broke out into an energetic YMCA DANCE to a packed The Villages, Florida crowd He&#39;s going off, and added the golf swing 🤣 47 will go FULL 2024 MODE to help save the majority in the 2026 midterms, expect many more rallies! 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/ao2N87H7ni">pic.twitter.com/ao2N87H7ni</a>&mdash; ᶜᵒᵐᵐᵉⁿᵗᵃʳʸ Donald J Trump Q (@DonaldJTrumRvQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/DonaldJTrumRvQ/status/2050341018571014267?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Melania thinks Trump's YMCA dance is "inappropriate"</h2>Melania's own account of the situation is more nuanced than outright opposition. In a Fox News appearance earlier this year, she told host Jesse Watters that she actually enjoys the dance, under the right circumstances. "I like it at certain times, but some days it's not appropriate, and I told him so," she said. "But it's his dance, and I think people love it. All around the world, they're dancing. It brings happiness and fun."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/god-save-the-marriage-trump-s-awkward-marriage-joke-earns-him-a-melania-death-stare-watch-viral-video-watch-king-charles-iii-visit-1777438081916">God save the marriage? Trump's awkward marriage joke earns him a Melania death stare | WATCH viral video</a>The YMCA moment at The Villages came days after Trump sparked a different kind of marital awkwardness, that too in front of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, when he joked during the White House welcome ceremony that his marriage could never match his parents' 63-year union. "That's a record we won't be able to match, darling. I'm sorry, it's just not going to work out that way," he said, turning to face Melania. The first lady's death stare, widely circulated on social media, suggested the joke landed poorly.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump says Melania thinks his trademark YMCA dance isn’t exactly “presidential,” but he’s clearly not stopping. In classic Trump fashion, he admitted the criticism, joked about it, then did it anyway, right on cue. Scroll down for the viral moment.

Donald Trump has a confession: Melania Trump is not a fan of his signature rally move. Speaking to a crowd at The Villages in Florida, Trump on Friday (May 1) revealed that the first lady objects to his end-of-rally YMCA routine, which he described, to the crowd's amusement, as dancing to "what's sometimes referred to as the gay national anthem." He then proceeded to do exactly that, working through his familiar repertoire of fist pumps, waves and stage movements as the 1978 Village People track filled the arena. Also read | ‘He was in that very building’: Iran official REVEALS Mojtaba survived strike that killed Ali Khamenei, dismisses health rumours "Not presidential" "She goes, 'Darling, please don't dance. It's not presidential," Trump told the crowd, trying to mimic Melania's voice. “I said, 'It may not be presidential, but I'm leading by 20 points in the polls so it's something.'”

US President Donald Trump says Melania thinks his trademark YMCA dance isn’t exactly “presidential,” but he’s clearly not stopping. In classic Trump fashion, he admitted the criticism, joked about it, then did it anyway, right on cue. Scroll down for the viral moment.

'Not presidential': Trump confesses Melania hates his dancing to 'gay national anthem' but does it anyway | WATCH viral video

A minute-by-minute photo timeline of Operation Neptune Spear, how the CIA tracked Osama bin Laden and how US forces executed the Abbottabad raid

IN PICS | Inside Operation Neptune Spear: The night Osama bin Laden was hunted down and killed in 9 minutes. Complete timeline

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