Iran to attend World Cup draw after reversing its planned boycott

Israeli Ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, expressed cautious optimism regarding the ongoing ceasefire between Israel and Hamas during an appearance on Meet the Press NOW, highlighting both hope and concern about its stability.

A US appeals court has allowed the continued deployment of National Guard troops in Washington, D.C., pausing a lower court's order that would have required their withdrawal by December 11. This decision comes in the wake of a targeted shooting incident on November 26 that critically injured two members of the West Virginia National Guard, prompting heightened security measures in the capital.

The Trump administration has directed U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide to prioritize visa applications for foreign fans traveling to the World Cup and other significant events. This initiative aims to facilitate attendance and enhance the experience for international visitors.

The US Justice Department has confirmed the arrest of Brian Cole in connection with the pipe bombs placed outside the Democratic and Republican party headquarters in Washington DC on January 5, 2021, just before the Capitol riot. This announcement was made by US Attorney General Pam Bondi, FBI Director Kash Patel, and US Attorney for Washington DC Jeanine Pirro.

The New York Times has filed a lawsuit against the Pentagon and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, claiming that new restrictions imposed by the Trump administration on press access and reporting violate press freedoms and chill independent journalism. The lawsuit highlights concerns over limited access to vital national security information for journalists covering the military.

US authorities have arrested an individual in connection with the pipe bombs placed outside the headquarters of the Democratic and Republican parties in Washington DC on January 5, 2021, the night before the Capitol riot. The explosive devices were intended to create chaos as a mob of Donald Trump’s supporters stormed Congress the following day to disrupt the certification of Joe Biden's election victory.

The United States has inaugurated a new consulate compound in Irbil, the capital of northern Iraq's Kurdish region, with an investment of $796 million. This significant development aims to strengthen diplomatic ties and support the Kurdish population in the region.

President Donald Trump announced the repeal of federal fuel economy standards established during the Biden administration, which significantly weakens fuel efficiency requirements for new gasoline-powered vehicles. This move is part of Trump's broader agenda to dismantle pollution regulations and promote traditional fuel sources.