The US Department of War is in the news for escalating military actions in Nigeria and Latin America, continuing its long role in U.S. military operations.
Rolls-Royce reported a 40% increase in 2025 profits, driven by military aircraft orders and data centre power demand. The company expects higher profits and share buybacks through 2028, despite supply chain and tariff challenges, reflecting a successful transformation since 2023.
Iran launched missile attacks on Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, damaging key energy infrastructure. In response, Israel struck Iran's South Pars gas field. Oil and gas prices surged sharply, fueling global market volatility and prompting emergency UK government meetings.
On March 23-24, 2026, US President Donald Trump announced a five-day pause on planned strikes against Iran's energy infrastructure, citing "very good and productive" talks with Iranian officials. Trump named envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner as negotiators. Iran's parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf denied any negotiations, calling US claims "fake news." The US-Iran conflict continues with Israeli strikes on Iranian targets.
The US is ready to approve a $14 billion arms package for Taiwan, including advanced interceptor missiles. The deal hinges on President Trump's approval after his upcoming trip to China, now scheduled for May 14-15, delayed due to regional conflicts.
On April 2, 2026, President Trump delivered a prime-time speech threatening intensified US military action against Iran within two to three weeks unless Tehran reopens the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil shipping route currently blocked by Iran. Oil prices surged above $110 per barrel, while global stock markets declined sharply due to uncertainty over the conflict's duration and lack of ceasefire plans.
The 2027 federal budget includes $152 million to rebuild Alcatraz as a secure prison for violent offenders. The plan faces political and logistical hurdles, including the island's current state of disrepair and its status as a historic landmark. The proposal aims to restore the prison's reputation as a symbol of law and order.
Two buses have collided at the Pentagon Metro Station's south parking lot this morning. Eighteen people have been transported to hospitals, and five received treatment on-site. The incident caused significant transit disruptions, with operations resuming around 11 a.m. The cause remains under investigation.