First Thing: Trump calls Epstein rumors a ‘radical left’ hoax and condemns Maga ‘weaklings’

A major security breach has exposed the identities of more than 100 British intelligence officers and elite military personnel, putting their safety and ongoing operations at risk. The fallout—including efforts to contain the damage—could cost the UK government up to £7 billion.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another data leak—it’s a nightmare scenario for intelligence agencies. Exposing spies and commandos doesn’t just compromise missions; it endangers lives and erodes trust in the systems meant to protect them. The staggering cleanup cost also raises tough questions about how such a breach happened and who might exploit the information. For the public, it’s a stark reminder of how fragile digital security can be, even for the most secretive organizations.

A tragic accident unfolded in Vietnam’s popular Ha Long Bay when a tourist boat capsized during rough weather. Local reports confirm dozens of fatalities, with at least 14 people still missing as rescue efforts continue.

Editor’s Note: Ha Long Bay is a major tourist draw, known for its scenic cruises—so this incident isn’t just a local tragedy but a blow to Vietnam’s tourism industry. It also raises urgent questions about safety protocols during severe weather, especially in busy travel hubs. For families of the victims and survivors, the aftermath will be devastating.

A tragic accident unfolded in Vietnam’s scenic Ha Long Bay when a tourist boat capsized during an unexpected thunderstorm. At least 34 people died, 12 were rescued, and seven remain missing. The boat, named Wonder Sea, was carrying 48 passengers and five crew members on what should have been a routine sightseeing trip. Rescue efforts are ongoing, but the sudden storm turned a leisurely outing into a disaster.

Editor’s Note: Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major draw for travelers, so this incident will likely raise urgent questions about safety standards for tourist boats in extreme weather. Beyond the immediate tragedy, it’s a grim reminder of how quickly nature can turn a picturesque excursion deadly—especially in regions where tourism infrastructure may not always prioritize resilience. Families are grieving, and the search for the missing adds another layer of heartbreak. Expect calls for stricter regulations in the wake of this.

Police arrested at least 80 people during nationwide protests against the UK government's decision to ban Palestine Action, a pro-Palestinian activist group. The Metropolitan Police alone reported 55 arrests at one demonstration, as tensions flared over the controversial crackdown.

Editor’s Note: This isn't just about a protest—it's a flashpoint in the broader debate over free speech, activism, and how governments handle dissent. The scale of arrests suggests growing friction between authorities and grassroots movements, especially around polarizing issues like Palestine. It could signal more clashes ahead as similar groups push back against restrictions.

It's Moving Day at The Open in Portrush, and young Swedish golfer Ludvig Åberg is making waves with a strong start—birdies on holes 2 and 3 have him sitting at -4. His early major career has been a rollercoaster, from nearly winning the Masters on debut to solid finishes in other big tournaments. Meanwhile, the live leaderboard is buzzing as the field jockeys for position heading into the final rounds.

Editor’s Note: For golf fans, this is the juicy part of any major—the third round where contenders separate themselves from the pack. Åberg’s hot start adds intrigue, especially given his meteoric rise in the sport. If he keeps this up, we could be watching the birth of a new star. Plus, Portrush as a venue always delivers drama, so buckle up.