Trump announces sweeping sanctions against Iran

After narrowly avoiding a full-blown crisis with a ceasefire, India and Pakistan are now grappling with the political fallout from their recent clash. While the immediate threat has cooled, both countries are riding a wave of nationalism, with leaders on each side spinning the conflict as a victory for domestic audiences. The tension may have de-escalated, but the rhetoric hasn’t—leaving things just as volatile beneath the surface.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about a temporary truce—it’s about how fragile peace can be when both sides are more focused on looking strong at home than resolving tensions. With nuclear stakes and rising nationalism, even a step back from conflict doesn’t mean the danger’s gone. It’s a reminder that in this rivalry, optics often matter more than progress.

President Trump has given the green light to Nippon Steel's $14.9 billion acquisition of U.S. Steel, but with a catch—the deal hinges on the companies meeting specific national security conditions. Essentially, the administration is okay with the sale as long as safeguards are in place to protect American interests.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another big-money merger—it’s a high-stakes balance between foreign investment and national security. The deal signals that the U.S. is open to global business partnerships, but only if they don’t compromise critical infrastructure or defense concerns. For workers and industries tied to steel, it’s a wait-and-see moment: will this bring stability or new uncertainties?

The morning headlines are split between two major stories: the intensifying tensions between Iran and Israel, described as an "all-out war" by some outlets, and darts prodigy Luke Littler receiving an MBE for his sporting achievements. While the Middle East conflict dominates front pages with grave warnings, Littler's honor offers a lighter counterpoint.

Editor’s Note: The Iran-Israel escalation is the bigger story here—it’s a volatile situation with global implications, from oil prices to regional stability. But Littler’s MBE is a reminder that even in tense times, everyday life (and sports) goes on. Editors are balancing urgency with a nod to normalcy.

A federal judge has ruled that Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University student, must stay in custody while the government disputes his green card status. The Trump administration claims Khalil failed to disclose past affiliations, though the details of those alleged ties remain unclear.

Editor’s Note: This case highlights the broader tensions around immigration enforcement, especially involving students and visa holders. Khalil’s detention raises questions about transparency in the legal process and how past associations—whether minor or significant—can derail someone’s future in the U.S. For many, it’s another example of how immigration policies can feel unpredictable and punitive.

Israel has launched a series of strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear program, including its main enrichment facility and Revolutionary Guard headquarters, killing a high-ranking commander, Hossein Salami. Prime Minister Netanyahu confirmed the attacks, framing them as a direct hit on Iran’s nuclear capabilities. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has vowed retaliation, escalating tensions in an already volatile region.