Karoline Leavitt is in the news as White House press secretary in 2025, after running as a Republican in New Hampshire’s 2022 House race.
On March 6-7, 2026, the U.S. Justice Department released previously withheld FBI interview memos from 2019 involving a woman who alleged sexual assault by Jeffrey Epstein and former President Donald Trump in the 1980s when she was a minor. The DOJ attributed the omission to mislabeling files as duplicates. Trump denies wrongdoing. Congressional Democrats have launched investigations into potential illegal withholding amid ongoing scrutiny of the Epstein Files Transparency Act compliance.
A mass shooting occurred early Sunday outside a bar in Austin, Texas, leaving three dead and 14 wounded. The suspect, Ndiaga Diagne, was killed by police. Authorities are investigating possible links to terrorism amid recent US-Israel military actions against Iran, with the suspect wearing clothing bearing Iranian symbols.
As of March 12, 2026, the US State Department has evacuated approximately 47,000 American citizens from 14 Middle Eastern countries amid escalating conflict involving Iran and Israel. The department has chartered flights and provided travel assistance, though many Americans remain stranded due to widespread airspace closures and limited commercial flights. US embassies face ongoing security threats, including drone attacks.
Tensions in the Middle East, including attacks on Qatar's LNG facilities and threats in the Strait of Hormuz, have caused a surge in global energy prices. Oil and gas markets are volatile, with prices rising sharply amid fears of prolonged disruptions, impacting global markets and supply security.
On March 3, a US and Israeli-led military campaign targeted Iran, resulting in the destruction of a girls' school in Minab, killing 165 students and staff. Multiple investigations suggest US responsibility, raising concerns over potential war crimes amid escalating regional conflict.
Recent attacks in the US, linked to ideological motives, highlight vulnerabilities as the counterterrorism system faces staffing and resource shortages amid escalating tensions with Iran. The FBI and other agencies are under strain following personnel purges and shifting priorities, raising concerns over national security readiness.
The U.S. and Israel have initiated a military campaign against Iran, citing preemptive action due to perceived imminent threats. The operation aims to degrade Iran’s missile and nuclear capabilities, with ongoing regional escalation and casualties. The justification and future outcomes remain uncertain.
Russia continues to support Iran amid ongoing Middle East conflicts, denying requests for military aid but providing intelligence to help Iran target US forces. Iran and Russia reaffirm their partnership as Iran faces US and Israeli attacks, with Putin expressing condolences over Iran's leadership crisis.
Amid escalating tensions, reports indicate President Trump has shown interest in deploying small US ground units inside Iran for strategic missions, including securing uranium stockpiles and influencing Iran's leadership. The White House denies plans for large-scale invasion, while military alerts increase.
Since late February 2026, US-led strikes on Iran have escalated tensions, closing the Strait of Hormuz and disrupting global oil supplies. Oil prices surged above $100 per barrel, pushing US gasoline prices to $3.59 per gallon. President Trump downplays the economic impact, emphasizing the conflict's urgency, while Republicans worry about midterm election fallout amid rising fuel costs.
A US and Israeli attack on Iran's Minab city resulted in the death of approximately 150-175 children at a girls' school. US military investigators are examining whether US forces were responsible, amid international calls for accountability. President Trump has yet to confirm responsibility as investigations continue.
The US and Israel's ongoing military actions against Iran have led to the escalation of the conflict, with strikes on Iran and regional targets. The Strait of Hormuz remains closed, causing oil prices to spike past $100 per barrel, raising fears of a broader energy crisis amid regional instability.
The White House has released videos blending real Iran conflict footage with movie and gaming clips, sparking criticism from politicians, artists, and religious leaders for trivializing war and civilian suffering amid ongoing Middle East hostilities. The videos depict military strikes with pop culture references, raising concerns over the normalization of violence.
Recent reports indicate Russia is providing Iran with intelligence on US military assets amid ongoing US-Israeli strikes on Iran. Russia's support appears targeted, with Iran launching retaliatory attacks. US officials downplay Russia's role, emphasizing Iran's degraded capabilities. The situation escalates regional tensions.
As of March 10, 2026, the US and Israel continue their military campaign against Iran, focusing on neutralizing missile capabilities, destroying the navy, and preventing nuclear weapon development. Despite heavy strikes, including the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader, Iran remains defiant, threatening retaliation and control over the Strait of Hormuz. The US signals no end to the conflict until Iran surrenders unconditionally.
US officials confirm that Russia has shared intelligence with Iran on US military assets amid ongoing Middle East conflict. While Russia denies directing Iran, the US downplays the impact, asserting its military operations remain effective. The story highlights escalating international involvement in the Iran war and US-Russia tensions.
The Pentagon has implemented new restrictions on press access, including banning photographers from recent briefings and limiting journalist movements. These measures follow a series of policies under Secretary Pete Hegseth aimed at controlling military reporting, raising concerns about First Amendment rights and transparency.
In early February 2026, the FBI issued a confidential alert warning that Iran allegedly aspired to conduct a surprise drone attack from an unidentified vessel off the California coast if the US struck Iran. Officials, including the White House and California Governor Gavin Newsom, emphasize no credible or imminent threat exists, but security measures remain heightened amid ongoing US-Iran conflict.
The White House has issued a 60-day waiver to the Jones Act, allowing foreign-flagged ships to transport energy and goods between US ports. This move aims to ease supply disruptions caused by the Iran war and rising fuel prices, though critics question its long-term impact.
As of March 20, 2026, the US and Israel's military campaign against Iran has entered its third week with no clear end in sight. The conflict has expanded across the Middle East, disrupting global oil markets and causing economic strain worldwide. President Trump faces internal White House debates balancing military objectives with rising gasoline prices and political risks. Iran continues to resist despite heavy losses, signaling a prolonged conflict.
Since initiating strikes in Iran, President Trump has sent mixed messages about the war's progress, with reports of increased military activity and conflicting claims about its status. He has also made controversial remarks about Iran's protesters and race, while tensions over the Strait of Hormuz remain high. The conflict's future remains uncertain.
President Trump has postponed his planned visit to China from late March to late April due to ongoing military operations against Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The trip, which aims to address trade and diplomatic issues, is now uncertain as tensions escalate in the Middle East.
On March 17, 2026, Joe Kent, director of the US National Counterterrorism Center, resigned, opposing the ongoing war with Iran. Kent stated Iran posed no imminent threat and accused Israeli officials and American media of pressuring the US into conflict. His resignation marks the highest-profile dissent within the Trump administration over the Iran war.
U.S. congressional hearings are examining the Middle East conflict initiated on February 28, focusing on intelligence assessments and the resignation of Joe Kent, a top counterterrorism official. Critics argue the war was unnecessary, citing lack of imminent threat from Iran, while officials defend the campaign's success.
A lawsuit challenges Trump’s plans to overhaul the Kennedy Center without proper review, citing risks to historic integrity. The case highlights concerns over potential irreversible damage and Trump’s increased influence over the venue since his return to office.
In early April 2026, Russia delivered two oil shipments to Cuba, breaking a US-imposed oil blockade that began in January after the US captured Venezuela's president. The first Russian tanker docked at Matanzas port carrying about 730,000 barrels of crude oil, providing temporary relief to Cuba's energy crisis. The US allowed the deliveries for humanitarian reasons despite ongoing sanctions and threats.
As of early April 2026, the US has deployed nearly 7,000 additional troops, including the 82nd Airborne Division and Marine Expeditionary Units, to the Middle East. The Pentagon is preparing options for limited ground raids targeting strategic Iranian sites such as Kharg Island and areas near the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump has not authorized these operations. Iran warns of fierce resistance and retaliation.
The US extends its deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, delaying strikes to allow talks. Iran warns of threats, while regional violence continues with Israeli strikes in Lebanon and Iran firing missiles at US bases. The conflict remains unresolved after three weeks.
Gas prices across the US have increased sharply since late February, driven by geopolitical tensions, refinery closures, and policy factors. The national average now exceeds $4 per gallon, with California reaching nearly $6. California's high costs are linked to refinery closures, taxes, and environmental policies, compounded by recent hacking incidents and potential Iran Strait shutdowns.
As of today, March 28, 2026, President Trump suggests the U.S. may soon wind down its military operation against Iran, which has targeted missile capabilities, naval forces, and military infrastructure. Despite tactical successes, key strategic aims remain unfulfilled, raising questions about the conflict's future and regional stability.
President Trump has postponed his planned trip to China from late March to mid-May, citing the ongoing war between the US, Israel, and Iran. The delay follows military actions in Iran and tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, complicating US-China relations and international diplomacy.
The White House has issued a stark warning to Iran, stating that if Tehran refuses to accept US demands and continues its current stance, the US will escalate military actions. Negotiations are ongoing, but tensions remain high as Iran rejects a US peace proposal and continues attacks in the Gulf.
China announced new trade investigations in response to US Section 301 probes targeting Chinese policies and exports. The Chinese probes aim to safeguard domestic industries and could influence ongoing trade negotiations, with both sides signaling reciprocal measures amid a fragile trade truce.
The US reports striking over 13,000 Iranian targets, including air defenses, navy, and weapons factories. Despite claims of significant degradation, Iran retains substantial missile and drone capabilities, with ongoing regional threats and limited destruction of underground and mobile systems. The situation remains complex as Iran continues firing missiles and drones.
Iran has imposed tolls on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, violating international maritime law and escalating tensions in the region. Despite a fragile US-Iran ceasefire, Iran controls passage through the strait via a permissions-based system, charging up to $2 million per vessel. The closure has disrupted global oil and fertilizer supplies, with hundreds of ships stranded and trade volumes down over 90%.
President Trump has issued a public warning that the U.S. may destroy Iran's power and water infrastructure if Tehran does not agree to a ceasefire and allows oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. The threat includes targeting civilian infrastructure, raising concerns about potential war crimes and international law violations. The situation remains tense as negotiations continue.
On March 31, 2026, US President Donald Trump criticized allies, especially the UK and France, for not supporting US-led strikes on Iran or reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Trump urged them to buy US oil and take control of the strait themselves, warning the US will no longer assist. The conflict has displaced over a million and disrupted global oil markets.
The US is considering a military operation to seize Iran's highly enriched uranium stockpiles, believed buried at key nuclear sites like Isfahan and Natanz. President Trump has not yet decided but remains open to options as ongoing conflict continues. Negotiations over nuclear suspension are ongoing, with Iran demanding recognition of its enrichment rights.
European Parliament members visited China to discuss safety concerns over Chinese e-commerce platforms and the high volume of unsafe products entering the EU. The trip follows the EU's recent overhaul of customs rules targeting illegal goods, especially from China, to improve market access and consumer protection.
As the government shutdown reaches 41 days, footage of lawmakers on vacation surfaces, fueling public anger. Despite ongoing funding deadlock, many members are seen enjoying leisure activities, while federal workers remain unpaid. Calls for Congress to return grow louder amid viral criticism.
Since early April 2026, President Trump has publicly criticised NATO allies for their limited support in the US-Israeli war on Iran, calling them "cowards" and a "paper tiger." He has threatened to withdraw US troops from uncooperative countries and reconsider US membership in NATO. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has met Trump multiple times, acknowledging US frustrations but defending European contributions. The alliance faces its deepest strain in decades.
President Trump has emphasized the success of a daring US military rescue of two pilots in Iran, framing it as a military triumph amid ongoing tensions. The operation involved multiple aircraft and special forces, with Trump portraying it as a demonstration of US strength during a five-week-old war that remains unpopular domestically.
Keep Chambers has recalled her positive interactions with Leo Radvinsky, the late owner of OnlyFans, emphasizing his kindness and mentorship. Radvinsky has been credited with transforming the adult content industry by empowering creators. He has recently passed away at age 43 after battling cancer, with his death remaining private until March 23, 2026.
Following a U.S.-Iran ceasefire, global oil markets have stabilized, leading to a potential decline in fuel prices within days. However, high prices persist in California and other regions due to supply disruptions and refinery constraints. Experts warn prices will remain elevated for months despite the ceasefire.
President Trump has issued a final deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, warning of potential military strikes on civilian infrastructure if Iran fails to comply. The threats have escalated tensions amid ongoing conflict, raising concerns over possible violations of international law and war crimes.
After over five weeks of conflict, the US and Iran have agreed to a two-week ceasefire to facilitate negotiations. The US emphasizes preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons, with ongoing discussions about Iran's uranium enrichment rights and the removal of nuclear material. Military options remain on the table, including potential operations to seize uranium stockpiles.
The US, Iran, and Israel have announced a two-week ceasefire amid ongoing conflicts. The ceasefire aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and reduce hostilities, but tensions persist as Iran continues to assert control over key waterways and regional actors remain cautious about the stability of the truce.
The US has announced plans to block the Strait of Hormuz, citing Iran's demands for toll payments and alleged extortion. Despite a ceasefire, tensions remain high as Iran continues to exert control over the waterway through mines and strategic influence, complicating international navigation and energy supplies.
The US is planning to shift from voluntary to automatic registration for men aged 18-25 for potential military drafts, as part of broader efforts to prepare for possible conflicts amid rising tensions with Iran and Russia. The change is pending final approval and could impact future conscription policies.
President Trump has expressed frustration with NATO's support for the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran, criticizing allies' reluctance to participate. He has posted on social media that NATO was not there when needed and will not be there in future conflicts. Discussions with European leaders reveal ongoing disagreements about military commitments and alliance cohesion.