President Trump warned he may reduce the US troop presence in Germany after German Chancellor Merz criticized Washington's approach to the Iran war. Merz emphasized the need for a reliable transatlantic partnership with the US and NATO.
The Bank of England held its key interest rate at 3.75%, with Governor Andrew Bailey forecasting inflation to rise to over 3.5% by year-end due to the Iran war. This decision comes as the European Central Bank also kept rates steady, citing intensified risks to inflation and growth.
The U.S. House of Representatives approved a budget blueprint to fund immigration enforcement for the rest of Trump's term, including an additional $70 billion for ICE and Border Patrol. This move, passed without Democratic support, aims to end the 74-day Department of Homeland Security funding lapse.
Singer D4vd has been charged with the murder and dismemberment of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, with prosecutors alleging he used a chainsaw and 'burn cage' to dispose of her body. His attorneys maintain his innocence and vow to defend him vigorously.
Israeli forces intercepted a flotilla of 22 boats carrying aid for Gaza in international waters near Crete, detaining 175 pro-Palestinian activists. The Global Sumud Flotilla described the interception as a 'violent raid,' with at least six Australian activists among those detained.
Alphabet and Microsoft reported strong quarterly earnings, with Alphabet increasing its 2026 capex to $190 billion and Microsoft forecasting $190 billion in capital spending. However, Meta's stock dropped due to disappointing user numbers, partly attributed to internet disruptions in Iran, and a downgrade from JPMorgan over AI spending.
Rubén Rocha Moya, the governor of Sinaloa, Mexico, and other officials have been indicted in the US for allegedly conspiring to protect the powerful Sinaloa cartel. This indictment puts Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum in a difficult position regarding US relations.
An interim report from the Bondi shooting inquiry recommends prioritizing 'nationally consistent' firearms reforms and increasing policing around Jewish events. A Jewish security group had warned police of a 'high' terror threat level due to heightened antisemitism days before the December mass shooting in Sydney.