President Trump's approach to the Iran war has strained the transatlantic alliance, with NATO allies resisting demands to intervene. Critics argue his actions make the US an unreliable ally and question the effectiveness of his "madman" theory in diplomacy.
Ongoing Israeli strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon are threatening the fragile US-Iran ceasefire, with Iran warning it may withdraw from peace talks if the bombing continues. Prime Minister Netanyahu's ambitions are seen as a potential derailment to the negotiations.
Melania Trump publicly denied alleged ties to Jeffrey Epstein, dismissing rumors as politically motivated smears. She urged Congress to hold public hearings for Epstein survivors, a call that has garnered bipartisan support.
Afrika Bambaataa, the Bronx-born hip-hop pioneer credited with shaping the genre in the 1980s with his global hit "Planet Rock," has died at the age of 68.
President Trump has repeatedly demanded Iran fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz, accusing Tehran of "doing a very poor job" and charging unauthorized tolls on tankers. He stated Iran's actions are not in line with the agreed ceasefire terms.