US administration appears to be sidelining Israel, analyst says as Trump heads to Middle East

Pakistan is considering a bold move to convert its excess electricity into a sovereign bitcoin reserve, hoping to lure tech investors and monetize its energy surplus. This strategy, inspired by a similar approach under the Trump administration, could potentially diversify the country’s economy. But critics warn it’s a high-stakes gamble—risking strain on Pakistan’s already shaky power grid, scrutiny from the IMF, and exposure to crypto’s notorious volatility.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about bitcoin—it’s a creative (and risky) attempt to solve two problems at once: unused energy and a need for foreign investment. If it works, Pakistan could position itself as a tech-forward player. But with crypto’s wild swings and the IMF likely watching closely, the plan could backfire spectacularly. Either way, it’s a sign of how countries are getting creative with digital assets, for better or worse.

President Trump has reinstated a controversial travel ban, barring citizens from 12 countries—including Iran, Haiti, and Afghanistan—from entering the U.S. The policy, a hallmark of his first term, also imposes restrictions on seven other nations, reviving a divisive immigration strategy.

Editor’s Note: This isn't just a rerun of an old debate—it directly impacts families, students, and workers from these countries, many of whom are already grappling with instability. The move signals a hardline stance on immigration, which could strain diplomatic relations and reignite legal battles. For everyday Americans, it’s a reminder of how polarizing Trump’s policies remain, even years after their first rollout.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the bodies of two hostages, Judih Weinstein and Gad Haggai, were recovered and returned to Israel following a special operation. Meanwhile, a U.S.- and Israeli-backed aid group delayed reopening its Gaza facilities due to Israeli military warnings that roads to distribution centers are active combat zones.

Editor’s Note: This story underscores the ongoing human toll of the war, with hostage recoveries bringing closure to families but also highlighting the persistent violence. The aid delay is another grim reminder of how the conflict disrupts critical humanitarian efforts, leaving civilians in even more dire straits. It’s a snapshot of a war where every development carries heavy consequences.

Half a million more kids will now qualify for free school meals under new government plans—a move praised by charities who see it as a step toward tackling child hunger. While details on rollout and funding aren’t fully clear yet, advocates are hopeful this signals a bigger commitment to supporting struggling families.

Editor’s Note: For families feeling the pinch of rising costs, this could be a real lifeline. It’s not just about meals; it’s about kids having one less thing to worry about so they can focus on learning. The charity sector’s cautious optimism hints this might push the conversation further on poverty relief—but whether it’s enough remains to be seen.

Rangers have officially named Russell Martin as their new head coach, handing him a three-year deal after he edged out other candidates like Davide Ancelotti for the role. The 39-year-old, who previously managed MK Dons, Swansea, and most recently led Southampton back to the Premier League, will bring his trusted assistants, Matt Gill and Rhys Owen, to Ibrox. This move signals a fresh direction under the club’s new American ownership.

Editor’s Note: For Rangers fans, this is a big deal—Martin’s arrival isn’t just about a new face in the dugout. It’s part of a broader shake-up by the club’s US owners, and his recent success with Southampton suggests he could bring some much-needed momentum. Whether he can translate that into trophies (or at least close the gap with Celtic) will be the real test. Either way, it’s a bold step into a new era.