Can Trump pay troops without Congress? Some Democrats don't think so

'The View' co-host has praised Donald Trump and his team for their significant role in facilitating the recent Israeli hostage release deal. This acknowledgment highlights the impact of political leadership in international negotiations and showcases how past administrations can influence current events, making it a noteworthy moment in the ongoing discourse around diplomacy and conflict resolution.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently mocked media outlets that refused to sign the Pentagon's new restrictive press policy, using a goodbye emoji in his social media response. This situation highlights the ongoing tension between government transparency and press freedom, as major news organizations like The Associated Press and CNN stand firm against policies they view as detrimental to journalistic integrity. The implications of this standoff could affect how information is disseminated and the public's right to know, making it a significant issue in the current media landscape.

Former President Biden expressed gratitude for President Trump's recent peace efforts that led to the return of 20 Israeli hostages held by Hamas during the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This development is significant as it highlights a moment of relief amidst the turmoil, showcasing the potential for diplomatic resolutions even in challenging times.

President Trump is pushing for the Pentagon to pay service members directly using previously allocated funds amid the ongoing government shutdown. This move aims to bypass the usual congressional approval process, highlighting the urgency of ensuring that troops receive their pay despite political gridlock. The implications of this decision could set a precedent for how military funding is managed during times of governmental impasse.

The recent Middle East peace summit, featuring President Trump and other world leaders, has sparked optimism about a potential peace plan. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her strong belief in the initiative, highlighting the importance of international collaboration for regional stability. This summit is significant as it showcases a united front among global leaders, aiming to address long-standing conflicts and promote peace in a historically volatile area.

Trump's peace plan has made a strong initial impact, but experts warn that significant challenges lie ahead. The effectiveness of any peace initiative often hinges on the actions taken post-conflict, and this plan will need careful navigation to ensure lasting stability. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as the world watches how this unfolds.

Israel and Hamas have reached a ceasefire deal, marking a potential end to a two-year conflict that included hostage and prisoner exchanges. However, the impact of this war continues to resonate on college campuses, where pro-Palestinian protests have sparked significant discussions about antisemitism and activism. This situation highlights the ongoing complexities of the conflict and the challenges faced by students and communities in addressing these sensitive issues.

Over the weekend, the Trump administration executed mass firings affecting hundreds of federal employees, particularly those involved in mental health services and disease control. This drastic move is seen as a tactic to pressure Democratic lawmakers amid a prolonged government shutdown. The implications of these firings are significant, as they could hinder critical services and response efforts during a time of national need, raising concerns about the administration's priorities and the well-being of public health.

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson has raised alarms about the ongoing government shutdown, now in its thirteenth day, suggesting it could extend to become one of the longest in American history. This situation is particularly concerning as the Trump administration has already laid off over 4,000 federal workers across seven agencies, highlighting the significant impact on public services and employees. The implications of such a prolonged shutdown could be far-reaching, affecting everything from government operations to the livelihoods of those who depend on federal jobs.

President Trump's recent visit to Egypt for a peace summit highlighted his significant role in international diplomacy, particularly after facilitating a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. This event not only underscores his influence on global peace efforts but also showcases the importance of dialogue in resolving conflicts, making it a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern relations.

Donald Trump expressed his willingness to visit Gaza, emphasizing the importance of its reconstruction, which he believes could be straightforward. Speaking at a forum for world leaders in Egypt, he highlighted America's expertise in building, suggesting that the reconstruction efforts could benefit from this knowledge. This statement is significant as it reflects a potential shift in U.S. involvement in the region and could influence international support for Gaza's recovery.

Former President Obama has taken a strong stance against businesses, law firms, and universities that have shifted their positions during the Trump administration. He urges these entities to uphold their values and not compromise their principles for political convenience. This matters because it highlights the ongoing tension between corporate interests and ethical leadership, especially in a politically charged environment.

Western Alaska is facing a severe crisis as the remnants of Typhoon Halong have caused widespread flooding, leaving many people missing and prompting rescue efforts for dozens. This situation is critical as it highlights the vulnerability of communities to extreme weather events, raising concerns about climate change and disaster preparedness in the region.

In a recent preseason game, Knicks coach Mike Brown opted to sit his starters during a 120-103 loss to the Wizards. This decision allowed him to better evaluate the rest of the roster, which is crucial for making informed choices as the regular season approaches. While the loss may not be ideal, it provides valuable insights into player performance and team dynamics.

A former student has been accused of stabbing three staff members and planting incendiary devices near a special needs school in California. This alarming incident highlights the ongoing concerns about safety in educational environments, particularly for vulnerable populations. The swift response from the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department's bomb squad underscores the seriousness of the threat and the need for effective measures to protect students and staff.

In a tragic incident, two brothers allegedly killed a Lyft driver and stole his vehicle, leading police on a chaotic chase. The situation escalated when one of the suspects, Ethan Bush, was fatally struck by a car while attempting to evade capture. This shocking event highlights the dangers faced by rideshare drivers and raises concerns about public safety.

The Atlanta Falcons pulled off an impressive victory against the Buffalo Bills on Monday Night Football, showcasing outstanding performances from Bijan Robinson and Drake London. This win not only boosts the Falcons' record to 3-2 but also highlights their potential as a competitive team this season, while the Bills face challenges after their second consecutive loss, dropping to 4-2.

Former LA schools chief Austin Beutner is stepping into the political arena by challenging current mayor Karen Bass. With 17 years of public service under his belt, Beutner believes he has the experience needed to steer Los Angeles back on course. His candidacy is significant as it highlights the ongoing discussions about leadership and direction in a city that many feel is currently adrift. This election could shape the future of LA, making it a pivotal moment for residents.