Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon kill six as Qatar briefly raises security threat alert
At least six people were killed after an Israeli airstrike destroyed a residential building in the town of Jibchit in southern Lebanon early Saturday, according to official reports. Among the victims were four members of the same family, highlighting the growing civilian toll as tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border continue to intensify. The attack was part of a series of overnight Israeli military operations targeting areas in southern Lebanon, where cross-border hostilities have incre
Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon kill six as Qatar briefly raises security threat alert
At least six people were killed after an Israeli airstrike destroyed a residential building in the town of Jibchit in southern Lebanon early Saturday, according to official reports. Among the victims were four members of the same family, highlighting the growing civilian toll as tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border continue to intensify. The attack was part of a series of overnight Israeli military operations targeting areas in southern Lebanon, where cross-border hostilities have incre
US and Israel airstrikes on Iran push death toll past 1,230 amid regional tensions
The conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel has intensified sharply, with the death toll from ongoing airstrikes reaching at least 1,230 since Saturday. The latest developments mark a significant escalation in the Middle East conflict, raising fears of wider regional instability and disruptions to global energy supply routes. In parallel with the strikes targeting Iran, the Israeli military has issued evacuation orders for the southern suburbs of Beirut, a densely popul
US and Israel airstrikes on Iran push death toll past 1,230 amid regional tensions
The conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel has intensified sharply, with the death toll from ongoing airstrikes reaching at least 1,230 since Saturday. The latest developments mark a significant escalation in the Middle East conflict, raising fears of wider regional instability and disruptions to global energy supply routes. In parallel with the strikes targeting Iran, the Israeli military has issued evacuation orders for the southern suburbs of Beirut, a densely popul
Trump names Markwayne Mullin as homeland security secretary starting March 31
US President Donald Trump on Thursday announced that Senator Markwayne Mullin will become the next United States Secretary of Homeland Security, with the appointment set to take effect on March 31, 2026. The announcement was made through a post on Truth Social, where Trump also revealed that the current secretary, Kristi Noem, will transition to a new role as special envoy for a forthcoming regional security initiative known as “The Shield of the Americas.” According to the pres
Trump names Markwayne Mullin as homeland security secretary starting March 31
US President Donald Trump on Thursday announced that Senator Markwayne Mullin will become the next United States Secretary of Homeland Security, with the appointment set to take effect on March 31, 2026. The announcement was made through a post on Truth Social, where Trump also revealed that the current secretary, Kristi Noem, will transition to a new role as special envoy for a forthcoming regional security initiative known as “The Shield of the Americas.” According to the pres
Trump assassination plot leader killed as US strikes Iran, Pentagon says
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Wednesday that President Donald Trump had effectively “gotten the last laugh” after American forces killed an Iranian official linked to an alleged assassination plot against him. The comments came as the United States expanded its military operations against Iran and signaled confidence that the campaign is significantly weakening Tehran’s capabilities. Speaking during a Pentagon briefing, Hegseth said the Iranian official who was killed had overseen a unit connected to efforts aimed at targeting Trump. Although he emphasized that the individual was not the initial objective when hostilities began, Hegseth said military planners ensured that those connected to the alleged assassination plot were eventually included on the operational target list. The issue of a Trump assassination plot first surfaced in 2024, when the U.S. Justice Department charged an Iranian national over what prosecutors described as a plan directed by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps to kill Trump, who at the time was the president-elect. Tehran has repeatedly denied accusations that it attempted to target Trump or other American officials. The latest developments come amid an expanding conflict between the United States and Iran. Hegseth used forceful language to describe the state of the war, asserting that U.S. forces were gaining the upper hand. He said American military operations would continue as long as necessary to meet the administration’s objectives and warned that Iran’s leadership was facing growing pressure as strikes intensified. The confrontation widened further after U.S. forces struck an Iranian warship near Sri Lanka, a move that deepened tensions across the Middle East and raised concerns about disruptions to shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz. The strategic waterway is a vital passage for global oil and gas flows, and the conflict has already begun to affect regional stability. Military leaders said American and allied forces were also making rapid progress in controlling Iranian airspace. General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told reporters that U.S. operations were establishing localized air superiority along Iran’s southern coast. He said the campaign would now move further inland, allowing American forces greater operational freedom as they target military infrastructure. Caine also noted a significant decline in Iranian offensive activity since the opening phase of the conflict. According to Pentagon data, Iran’s ballistic missile launches have fallen sharply, while one-way drone attacks have also dropped considerably, suggesting that sustained U.S. strikes are degrading Iran’s operational capacity. Despite the administration’s confidence in the military campaign, lawmakers from both major political parties have questioned the longer-term strategy. Critics say the government has yet to clearly outline what the political outcome of the conflict might look like if Iran’s leadership structure becomes weakened or destabilized. Hegseth said the United States has the capability to sustain the campaign for as long as required. He stressed that the duration of the conflict would ultimately depend on the administration’s goals and how quickly the Pentagon is able to achieve its military objectives.
Trump assassination plot leader killed as US strikes Iran, Pentagon says
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Wednesday that President Donald Trump had effectively “gotten the last laugh” after American forces killed an Iranian official linked to an alleged assassination plot against him. The comments came as the United States expanded its military operations against Iran and signaled confidence that the campaign is significantly weakening Tehran’s capabilities. Speaking during a Pentagon briefing, Hegseth said the Iranian official who was killed had overseen a unit connected to efforts aimed at targeting Trump. Although he emphasized that the individual was not the initial objective when hostilities began, Hegseth said military planners ensured that those connected to the alleged assassination plot were eventually included on the operational target list. The issue of a Trump assassination plot first surfaced in 2024, when the U.S. Justice Department charged an Iranian national over what prosecutors described as a plan directed by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps to kill Trump, who at the time was the president-elect. Tehran has repeatedly denied accusations that it attempted to target Trump or other American officials. The latest developments come amid an expanding conflict between the United States and Iran. Hegseth used forceful language to describe the state of the war, asserting that U.S. forces were gaining the upper hand. He said American military operations would continue as long as necessary to meet the administration’s objectives and warned that Iran’s leadership was facing growing pressure as strikes intensified. The confrontation widened further after U.S. forces struck an Iranian warship near Sri Lanka, a move that deepened tensions across the Middle East and raised concerns about disruptions to shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz. The strategic waterway is a vital passage for global oil and gas flows, and the conflict has already begun to affect regional stability. Military leaders said American and allied forces were also making rapid progress in controlling Iranian airspace. General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told reporters that U.S. operations were establishing localized air superiority along Iran’s southern coast. He said the campaign would now move further inland, allowing American forces greater operational freedom as they target military infrastructure. Caine also noted a significant decline in Iranian offensive activity since the opening phase of the conflict. According to Pentagon data, Iran’s ballistic missile launches have fallen sharply, while one-way drone attacks have also dropped considerably, suggesting that sustained U.S. strikes are degrading Iran’s operational capacity. Despite the administration’s confidence in the military campaign, lawmakers from both major political parties have questioned the longer-term strategy. Critics say the government has yet to clearly outline what the political outcome of the conflict might look like if Iran’s leadership structure becomes weakened or destabilized. Hegseth said the United States has the capability to sustain the campaign for as long as required. He stressed that the duration of the conflict would ultimately depend on the administration’s goals and how quickly the Pentagon is able to achieve its military objectives.
Indian embassy relocates students from Tehran amid rising Iran security tensions
Amid escalating security concerns in Iran, the Indian Embassy in Tehran has relocated most Indian students from the capital to safer locations outside the city. In an advisory issued on March 3, the mission cited a heightened risk perception in Tehran and said transport, food and accommodation had been arranged for those moved. A small number of students remain in the city after declining the relocation offer. The embassy reiterated earlier guidance for Indian nationals still in Ira
Indian embassy relocates students from Tehran amid rising Iran security tensions
Amid escalating security concerns in Iran, the Indian Embassy in Tehran has relocated most Indian students from the capital to safer locations outside the city. In an advisory issued on March 3, the mission cited a heightened risk perception in Tehran and said transport, food and accommodation had been arranged for those moved. A small number of students remain in the city after declining the relocation offer. The embassy reiterated earlier guidance for Indian nationals still in Ira
Israel air force hits key iranian government sites amid missile escalation
Israel’s air force carried out overnight strikes on key government sites in Iran, including the country’s presidential complex and a building linked to its top security authority, according to a statement issued by the Israel Defense Forces. The military said it targeted what it described as the “Iranian regime’s leadership compound,” identifying it as the central headquarters of Iran’s leadership structure. In a post published on X, the Israel Defense Forces stated that
Israel air force hits key iranian government sites amid missile escalation
Israel’s air force carried out overnight strikes on key government sites in Iran, including the country’s presidential complex and a building linked to its top security authority, according to a statement issued by the Israel Defense Forces. The military said it targeted what it described as the “Iranian regime’s leadership compound,” identifying it as the central headquarters of Iran’s leadership structure. In a post published on X, the Israel Defense Forces stated that
DC lifts Potomac River health advisory after E.Coli levels stabilize
The District of Columbia has lifted the health advisory for the Potomac River following a prolonged sewage spill that began about a month and a half ago. Officials cited consistently normal E.Coli levels for the past three weeks as the primary reason for removing the advisory on Monday morning. The DC Director of Health emphasized that protecting the health and safety of residents remains a top priority and confirmed that conditions within the District’s portion of the river no longer pose an
DC lifts Potomac River health advisory after E.Coli levels stabilize
The District of Columbia has lifted the health advisory for the Potomac River following a prolonged sewage spill that began about a month and a half ago. Officials cited consistently normal E.Coli levels for the past three weeks as the primary reason for removing the advisory on Monday morning. The DC Director of Health emphasized that protecting the health and safety of residents remains a top priority and confirmed that conditions within the District’s portion of the river no longer pose an
Route 22 Lane Closures in North Plainfield, New Jersey to Last Two Weeks
Drivers traveling along Route 22 in North Plainfield should prepare for delays over the next two weeks as lane closures take effect for construction work. Beginning at 9 a.m. today, the left lane and shoulder on both eastbound and westbound sides of Route 22 will be closed between Malcolm Avenue and the Walmart Shopping Center. Officials said the traffic adjustment is necessary to carry out repairs to the concrete median barrier in the area, part of a broader effort to maintain and strengthen ro
Route 22 Lane Closures in North Plainfield, New Jersey to Last Two Weeks
Drivers traveling along Route 22 in North Plainfield should prepare for delays over the next two weeks as lane closures take effect for construction work. Beginning at 9 a.m. today, the left lane and shoulder on both eastbound and westbound sides of Route 22 will be closed between Malcolm Avenue and the Walmart Shopping Center. Officials said the traffic adjustment is necessary to carry out repairs to the concrete median barrier in the area, part of a broader effort to maintain and strengthen ro
Possible terrorism under investigation after Austin bar shooting kills 2, injures 14
Federal authorities are investigating whether a deadly shooting at a bar in Austin, Texas, may have been an act of terrorism after two people were killed and 14 others injured in a late-night attack that has shaken the city. The violence unfolded within hours of US airstrikes against Iran, prompting questions about whether the timing was coincidental or connected to broader geopolitical tensions. Officials have cautioned that the investigation remains in its early stages and that conclusions sho
Possible terrorism under investigation after Austin bar shooting kills 2, injures 14
Federal authorities are investigating whether a deadly shooting at a bar in Austin, Texas, may have been an act of terrorism after two people were killed and 14 others injured in a late-night attack that has shaken the city. The violence unfolded within hours of US airstrikes against Iran, prompting questions about whether the timing was coincidental or connected to broader geopolitical tensions. Officials have cautioned that the investigation remains in its early stages and that conclusions sho
Emirates Resumes Limited Flights After Middle East Airspace Disruptions
Air travel operations in parts of the Middle East showed early signs of recovery after several airlines announced limited service resumption following widespread disruptions caused by recent regional strikes. Dubai-based Emirates confirmed it received approval from local authorities to restart a limited number of flights, with operations expected to begin Monday evening. The decision comes after thousands of flights were canceled over the weekend due to airspace closures across multiple countries in the region. Authorities in Dubai stated that only a small number of flights would be allowed to operate from Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport as a precautionary measure while the situation stabilizes. Travelers have been advised to check with their airlines before heading to the airport, as schedules may change at short notice depending on safety assessments and airspace availability. Emirates said priority would be given to passengers who already held confirmed bookings before the disruption. The airline also urged customers not to travel to the airport unless they had received direct confirmation that their flight would operate. According to the airline, most services remain suspended until further notice as authorities continue to monitor regional developments. The disruption followed military strikes involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which led to the temporary closure of large sections of Middle East airspace. The shutdown affected not only flights to the region but also international routes that normally pass through the area, leaving hundreds of thousands of passengers stranded worldwide. Dubai, one of the busiest global aviation hubs, experienced significant delays as airlines were forced to reroute or cancel long-haul flights. Israeli carrier El Al announced that it is exploring alternative options to bring stranded citizens home, including the possible use of chartered aircraft from European locations to nearby destinations such as Taba in Egypt or Aqaba in Jordan. The airline said the plan would require approval from government authorities before it could proceed. Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways also confirmed temporary suspension of commercial services, stating that flights to and from the city would remain halted until midweek. The airline noted that certain cargo and repatriation flights may continue under strict safety protocols as authorities gradually reopen regional airspace. Airlines across the region are continuing to assess conditions before fully restoring normal schedules, with officials emphasizing that passenger safety remains the primary concern while tensions in the region persist.
Emirates Resumes Limited Flights After Middle East Airspace Disruptions
Air travel operations in parts of the Middle East showed early signs of recovery after several airlines announced limited service resumption following widespread disruptions caused by recent regional strikes. Dubai-based Emirates confirmed it received approval from local authorities to restart a limited number of flights, with operations expected to begin Monday evening. The decision comes after thousands of flights were canceled over the weekend due to airspace closures across multiple countries in the region. Authorities in Dubai stated that only a small number of flights would be allowed to operate from Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport as a precautionary measure while the situation stabilizes. Travelers have been advised to check with their airlines before heading to the airport, as schedules may change at short notice depending on safety assessments and airspace availability. Emirates said priority would be given to passengers who already held confirmed bookings before the disruption. The airline also urged customers not to travel to the airport unless they had received direct confirmation that their flight would operate. According to the airline, most services remain suspended until further notice as authorities continue to monitor regional developments. The disruption followed military strikes involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which led to the temporary closure of large sections of Middle East airspace. The shutdown affected not only flights to the region but also international routes that normally pass through the area, leaving hundreds of thousands of passengers stranded worldwide. Dubai, one of the busiest global aviation hubs, experienced significant delays as airlines were forced to reroute or cancel long-haul flights. Israeli carrier El Al announced that it is exploring alternative options to bring stranded citizens home, including the possible use of chartered aircraft from European locations to nearby destinations such as Taba in Egypt or Aqaba in Jordan. The airline said the plan would require approval from government authorities before it could proceed. Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways also confirmed temporary suspension of commercial services, stating that flights to and from the city would remain halted until midweek. The airline noted that certain cargo and repatriation flights may continue under strict safety protocols as authorities gradually reopen regional airspace. Airlines across the region are continuing to assess conditions before fully restoring normal schedules, with officials emphasizing that passenger safety remains the primary concern while tensions in the region persist.
Pakistan declares open war on Afghan Taliban after border escalation
Pakistan on Friday declared what it described as an “open war” against Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities following a sharp escalation in cross-border fighting that has heightened fears of a broader regional conflict. The announcement came as reports of explosions and heavy gunfire emerged from Kabul and Kandahar, underscoring the deteriorating security situation along the frontier. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said Islamabad’s patience had been exhausted after months of mou
Pakistan declares open war on Afghan Taliban after border escalation
Pakistan on Friday declared what it described as an “open war” against Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities following a sharp escalation in cross-border fighting that has heightened fears of a broader regional conflict. The announcement came as reports of explosions and heavy gunfire emerged from Kabul and Kandahar, underscoring the deteriorating security situation along the frontier. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said Islamabad’s patience had been exhausted after months of mou
JCP&L crews restore power as outages drop after major blizzard
JCP&L has deployed more than 2,500 linework personnel across its service region as the utility continues efforts to restore electricity following a powerful winter blizzard that caused widespread outages. Officials reported that the number of customers without power has dropped to about 15,000, marking significant progress in the restoration campaign. Crews remain heavily focused on OceanCo, where the storm brought down more than 60 trees and damaged critical infrastructure. Utility crew
JCP&L crews restore power as outages drop after major blizzard
JCP&L has deployed more than 2,500 linework personnel across its service region as the utility continues efforts to restore electricity following a powerful winter blizzard that caused widespread outages. Officials reported that the number of customers without power has dropped to about 15,000, marking significant progress in the restoration campaign. Crews remain heavily focused on OceanCo, where the storm brought down more than 60 trees and damaged critical infrastructure. Utility crew
US Deploys 150 Aircraft Near Iran as Nuclear Tensions Escalate
Satellite imagery and open-source flight tracking data indicate that the United States has significantly expanded its military presence across Europe and the Middle East as tensions with Iran intensify over Tehran’s nuclear programme. More than 150 American military aircraft have reportedly been repositioned to forward operating bases in what analysts describe as one of the largest regional force deployments in over two decades. The aircraft include heavy cargo planes, aerial refuelling tanker
US Deploys 150 Aircraft Near Iran as Nuclear Tensions Escalate
Satellite imagery and open-source flight tracking data indicate that the United States has significantly expanded its military presence across Europe and the Middle East as tensions with Iran intensify over Tehran’s nuclear programme. More than 150 American military aircraft have reportedly been repositioned to forward operating bases in what analysts describe as one of the largest regional force deployments in over two decades. The aircraft include heavy cargo planes, aerial refuelling tanker
Former UK ambassador Peter Mandelson arrested in misconduct probe
Former United Kingdom ambassador to the United States Peter Mandelson was arrested on Monday on suspicion of misconduct in public office, according to confirmation from London’s Metropolitan Police. The 72-year-old veteran Labour Party figure was detained at a property in Camden and taken to a London police station for questioning as part of an ongoing investigation. Police officials said the arrest followed the execution of search warrants at two separate addresses in the Wiltshire and Ca
Former UK ambassador Peter Mandelson arrested in misconduct probe
Former United Kingdom ambassador to the United States Peter Mandelson was arrested on Monday on suspicion of misconduct in public office, according to confirmation from London’s Metropolitan Police. The 72-year-old veteran Labour Party figure was detained at a property in Camden and taken to a London police station for questioning as part of an ongoing investigation. Police officials said the arrest followed the execution of search warrants at two separate addresses in the Wiltshire and Ca
Taliban New Penal Code Sparks Outrage Over Domestic Violence And Women Rights
Taliban’s newly introduced penal code has sparked global concern after reports revealed provisions that allow husbands to physically punish their wives and children under certain conditions. The controversial law, signed by Taliban supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, has drawn sharp criticism from human rights organisations and international observers, who warn that it severely undermines women’s rights and legal protections in Afghanistan. According to reports, the penal code
Taliban New Penal Code Sparks Outrage Over Domestic Violence And Women Rights
Taliban’s newly introduced penal code has sparked global concern after reports revealed provisions that allow husbands to physically punish their wives and children under certain conditions. The controversial law, signed by Taliban supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, has drawn sharp criticism from human rights organisations and international observers, who warn that it severely undermines women’s rights and legal protections in Afghanistan. According to reports, the penal code
US raises security concerns over UK’s Diego Garcia plans
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday publicly criticized British Prime Minister Keir Starmer over the United Kingdom’s handling of the strategically important island of Diego Garcia, warning that London could be making a significant strategic error. In a post on Truth Social dated February 18, Trump said he had advised Starmer that entering into a 100-year lease arrangement concerning Diego Garcia was a “big mistake.” The island, located in the Indian Ocean and part of the Chagos Arc
US raises security concerns over UK’s Diego Garcia plans
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday publicly criticized British Prime Minister Keir Starmer over the United Kingdom’s handling of the strategically important island of Diego Garcia, warning that London could be making a significant strategic error. In a post on Truth Social dated February 18, Trump said he had advised Starmer that entering into a 100-year lease arrangement concerning Diego Garcia was a “big mistake.” The island, located in the Indian Ocean and part of the Chagos Arc
Auto loan interest tax deduction offers limited savings for most drivers in 2025
Eligible U.S. taxpayers will be able to deduct up to $10,000 in auto loan interest for the 2025 tax year under a temporary tax provision created through President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, but financial analysts say the actual benefit for most car buyers will be far smaller than the headline figure suggests. While the deduction may appear generous at first glance, typical loan structures and interest payments mean that most borrowers are unlikely to approach the maximum all
Auto loan interest tax deduction offers limited savings for most drivers in 2025
Eligible U.S. taxpayers will be able to deduct up to $10,000 in auto loan interest for the 2025 tax year under a temporary tax provision created through President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, but financial analysts say the actual benefit for most car buyers will be far smaller than the headline figure suggests. While the deduction may appear generous at first glance, typical loan structures and interest payments mean that most borrowers are unlikely to approach the maximum all
US Disables Cross-Border Drones as FAA Pauses Flights Over El Paso
Federal authorities confirmed on Wednesday that unmanned aerial vehicles believed to be operated by Mexican drug cartels crossed into United States airspace near El Paso, Texas, prompting heightened security measures and a temporary halt to flight operations at the city’s main airport. The incident triggered a 10-day suspension of flights ordered by the Federal Aviation Administration, which cited security-related concerns while officials assessed potential risks to civilian aviation and th
US Disables Cross-Border Drones as FAA Pauses Flights Over El Paso
Federal authorities confirmed on Wednesday that unmanned aerial vehicles believed to be operated by Mexican drug cartels crossed into United States airspace near El Paso, Texas, prompting heightened security measures and a temporary halt to flight operations at the city’s main airport. The incident triggered a 10-day suspension of flights ordered by the Federal Aviation Administration, which cited security-related concerns while officials assessed potential risks to civilian aviation and th
UK plans new military powers as rogue drone sightings near bases double
The number of reported sightings of rogue drones operating near military installations in the United Kingdom has more than doubled over the past year, raising fresh concerns over national security and prompting the government to consider significant changes to military powers. Official figures show that incidents increased from 126 in 2024 to 266 in 2025, representing a rise of more than 100 per cent and highlighting what ministers describe as an evolving and increasingly complex threat envir
UK plans new military powers as rogue drone sightings near bases double
The number of reported sightings of rogue drones operating near military installations in the United Kingdom has more than doubled over the past year, raising fresh concerns over national security and prompting the government to consider significant changes to military powers. Official figures show that incidents increased from 126 in 2024 to 266 in 2025, representing a rise of more than 100 per cent and highlighting what ministers describe as an evolving and increasingly complex threat envir
India, Venezuela look to deepen ties after leadership change, PM Modi speaks to Rodríguez
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a conversation with Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodríguez, reaffirming India’s intention to deepen and expand cooperation across multiple sectors. The discussion marks a significant diplomatic engagement nearly a month after former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was removed from power and taken into United States custody following a high-profile military operation. In a message shared on social media, Modi said both sides
India, Venezuela look to deepen ties after leadership change, PM Modi speaks to Rodríguez
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a conversation with Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodríguez, reaffirming India’s intention to deepen and expand cooperation across multiple sectors. The discussion marks a significant diplomatic engagement nearly a month after former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was removed from power and taken into United States custody following a high-profile military operation. In a message shared on social media, Modi said both sides









