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Trump Threatens Iran Infrastructure After F-35 Downing Claim
Politics

Trump Threatens Iran Infrastructure After F-35 Downing Claim

President Donald Trump threatened to destroy Iran's bridges and power plants after Iran claimed to shoot down a U.S. F-35 fighter jet. Trump escalated rhetoric, vowing severe military action and reverting Iran to the Stone Age, while Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil route. Legal experts warn that targeting infrastructure may violate international law as war crimes. The Gulf Cooperation Council appealed to the UN, but China, Russia, and France vetoed actions. The conflict persists with mutual accusations and no clear de-escalation despite reported U.S. peace efforts.

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Min Aung Hlaing Elected Myanmar President by Pro-Military Parliament
Politics

Min Aung Hlaing Elected Myanmar President by Pro-Military Parliament

Min Aung Hlaing, the military leader who staged the 2021 coup in Myanmar, has been elected president by a pro-military parliament. This follows a controversial general election in late 2025 and early 2026 that was widely denounced as illegitimate. He has appointed Ye Win Oo, a loyal intelligence chief, as his successor in the military. The transition is seen as a strategy to consolidate power under a civilian guise while maintaining military dominance. However, armed conflict persists nationwide, with no resolution to the civil war. International observers have criticized the process as a sham to perpetuate military rule.

Hong Kong Gas Prices at $15.6/Gallon, Four Times U.S. Average
Business

Hong Kong Gas Prices at $15.6/Gallon, Four Times U.S. Average

Hong Kong has the world's highest gasoline prices at about $15.6 per gallon, nearly four times the U.S. average. Key drivers include high fuel taxes, expensive land costs, and global oil price surges from Middle East conflicts. These prices contribute to inflation, raise logistics costs, and reinforce Hong Kong's low car ownership rate. The government, led by John Lee, monitors the situation and emphasizes stable supply from mainland China. Consequently, many residents cross into mainland China for cheaper fuel, which could further affect the local economy.

Chinese Chip Firms Hit Record Revenue Fueled by AI Boom and U.S. Curbs
Business

Chinese Chip Firms Hit Record Revenue Fueled by AI Boom and U.S. Curbs

Chinese semiconductor firms reported record-high revenues in 2025, primarily due to AI demand, electric vehicle market expansion, and U.S. export curbs. Major players such as SMIC, Hua Hong, Moore Threads, and CXMT all experienced significant year-on-year growth. The memory chip segment, led by CXMT, saw a 130% revenue increase amid global shortages and U.S. restrictions on HBM exports. Analysts attribute the surge to China's accelerated push for tech self-sufficiency following U.S. limitations. Growth is anticipated to continue into 2026, with SMIC forecasted to surpass $11 billion in revenue. Despite technological gaps, domestic alternatives are filling critical compute gaps in the Chinese market.

Microsoft's $10B AI Push in Japan Boosts Sakura Internet 20%
Tech

Microsoft's $10B AI Push in Japan Boosts Sakura Internet 20%

Microsoft has announced a $10 billion investment in Japan's AI sector from 2026 to 2029, focusing on infrastructure, cybersecurity, and training. The plan involves partnerships with Sakura Internet and SoftBank to deploy AI computing resources domestically. This follows a meeting between Microsoft's Brad Smith and Japan's Prime Minister. Sakura Internet's shares rose 20.2% on the news. The move reflects growing demand for AI and cloud services in Japan, where generative AI usage is higher than the global average.

Live updates: Iran war news; USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier back at sea
World

Live updates: Iran war news; USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier back at sea

Bahrain đã đề xuất dự thảo nghị quyết Hội đồng Bảo an Liên Hợp Quốc, cho phép các quốc gia sử dụng 'các biện pháp phòng thủ cần thiết' để đảm bảo tự do hàng hải qua eo biển Hormuz. Dự kiến nghị quyết sẽ được bỏ phiếu vào sáng thứ Bảy. Trung Quốc phản đối dự thảo, cảnh báo nó có thể dẫn đến leo thang, trong khi Ả Rập Xê Út hy vọng Nga và Trung Quốc không phủ quyết. Nghị quyết lên án hành động của Iran, nhấn mạnh quyền qua lại không bị cản trở và ủy quyền hành động phòng thủ trong eo biển ít nhất sáu tháng, với điều kiện tuân thủ luật quốc tế.

Todd Blanche Leads DOJ Amid Epstein Files Controversy
Politics

Todd Blanche Leads DOJ Amid Epstein Files Controversy

Todd Blanche was appointed interim U.S. Attorney General by President Trump, succeeding Pam Bondi. Blanche, a former Trump defense attorney and Deputy Attorney General, has overseen the removal of over 200 DOJ and FBI officials linked to Trump investigations. His tenure is marked by controversies, including criticism for handling the Epstein files and the prison transfer of Ghislaine Maxwell. Blanche has publicly sought to move past the Epstein issue while defending Trump's policies and attacking political enemies. The Epstein files controversy remains a persistent challenge for the Justice Department under his leadership. Blanche's refusal to recuse himself from Trump-related cases raises ethical questions about the department's impartiality.

Bahrain UN Resolution: Force Authorization for Hormuz Strait
World

Bahrain UN Resolution: Force Authorization for Hormuz Strait

Bahrain has introduced a UN Security Council draft resolution to authorize defensive force in the Strait of Hormuz, condemning Iran's actions and asserting navigation rights. Saudi Arabia anticipates Russia and China will not block the measure, though China's UN envoy explicitly opposes force authorization due to escalation risks. The vote is set for Saturday, with the authorization lasting six months and requiring quarterly reports. The proposal underscores global worries about energy security and trade disruptions in the strategic waterway.

Global Energy Vulnerability: Strait Blockade Exposes Oil Dependence Risks
World

Global Energy Vulnerability: Strait Blockade Exposes Oil Dependence Risks

The Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz exposes the global economy's high dependence on a few maritime chokepoints for fossil fuel transport, leading to immediate energy crises and economic shocks. Renewable energy systems, though less prone to short-term disruptions, rely on critical minerals with supply chains concentrated in China, posing different long-term geopolitical risks. Experts emphasize that no energy source is fully immune to such vulnerabilities, but renewables offer greater resilience once infrastructure is established. Ongoing efforts to diversify mineral supplies and develop alternative technologies aim to mitigate these risks. The event highlights the need for robust, diversified global energy infrastructure to withstand geopolitical tensions.

Artemis II Launch, Trump Birthright Order: Key April 2 News
Politics

Artemis II Launch, Trump Birthright Order: Key April 2 News

On April 2, 2026, NASA's Artemis II mission launched successfully, beginning the first crewed lunar orbit mission in over five decades. The U.S. Supreme Court exhibited skepticism during arguments on President Trump's executive order to end birthright citizenship. The United States lifted sanctions on Venezuelan official Delcy Rodríguez. President Trump indicated he is considering withdrawing the U.S. from NATO. Additionally, 14 Mexican nationals have died in ICE custody since the start of Trump's second term.

U.S. Lifts Sanctions on Venezuela's Delcy Rodríguez After Maduro Capture
Politics

U.S. Lifts Sanctions on Venezuela's Delcy Rodríguez After Maduro Capture

The U.S. lifted sanctions on Venezuelan interim president Delcy Rodríguez on March 13, 2024. These sanctions, imposed in 2018, were based on allegations of her role in undermining Venezuelan democracy. Rodríguez assumed power after the U.S. capture of Nicolás Maduro on January 3, 2024. She has engaged with U.S. officials and promoted economic reforms to encourage foreign investment. The sanction removal aligns with the recent restoration of diplomatic ties between the two countries. President Trump has expressed support for Rodríguez's leadership.

Trump's 'Doctrina Donroe' Debated at Miami Security Forum
Politics

Trump's 'Doctrina Donroe' Debated at Miami Security Forum

The Miami Security Forum in March 2025 discussed President Trump's 'Doctrina Donroe,' a Latin America policy modeled after the Monroe Doctrine. Key measures include capturing Venezuela's Maduro, blockading Cuba, and designating drug cartels as terrorists. Colombian Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez's attendance sparked controversy due to US sanctions on Colombia's president. Speakers advocated for historical inspirations from the 19th century and Theodore Roosevelt's era to bolster US influence. Cuba's national blackout and US threats underscored regional tensions, with conservative figures supporting strong intervention.

Argentina's 1986 World Cup Jersey: Urgent Mexico Neighborhood Purchase
Sports

Argentina's 1986 World Cup Jersey: Urgent Mexico Neighborhood Purchase

The Argentina jersey from the 1986 World Cup, famously worn by Diego Maradona in his match against England, was bought in an emergency from a Mexican neighborhood and tailored under coach Carlos Bilardo's guidance. This jersey, linked to Maradona's 'Hand of God' and 'Goal of the Century,' is now worth over $8 million. Its urgent acquisition reflects the detailed preparations for the game. As a top-tier sports memorabilia, its value and story are amplified by the upcoming 40th anniversary in 2026. The jersey remains a testament to football history and Maradona's legacy.

Senate Sends Partial DHS Reopening Bill to House Amid Shutdown
Politics

Senate Sends Partial DHS Reopening Bill to House Amid Shutdown

The Senate passed a bill to partially fund DHS, sending it to the House where it was previously rejected. President Trump announced an order to pay all DHS employees unilaterally. Republican leaders propose a two-step plan: partial reopening now, followed by a comprehensive immigration bill. However, House Republicans are divided and in recess, delaying action. The shutdown affects key federal workers, intensifying pressure on Congress to resolve the funding gap.

U.S. Army M111 Grenade: Blast Wave Weapon First Since Vietnam
Tech

U.S. Army M111 Grenade: Blast Wave Weapon First Since Vietnam

The U.S. Army has deployed the M111 grenade, the first new lethal hand grenade since the Vietnam War, utilizing blast wave technology to reduce collateral damage in urban settings. It replaces the asbestos-containing MK3A2 and supplements the shrapnel-based M67, which remains for open terrain. Developed from Iraq War experiences, the M111 uses RDX explosive and is designed for indoor combat. The Marine Corps is also adopting a similar blast wave grenade, the M21. This innovation highlights a shift towards precision in military engagements while maintaining traditional options for different environments.

Trump Imposes 100% Tariffs on Foreign Drugs, Overhauls Metal Tariffs
Business

Trump Imposes 100% Tariffs on Foreign Drugs, Overhauls Metal Tariffs

President Trump has imposed a 100% tariff on imported drugs from foreign pharmaceutical companies not in his "Most Favored Nation" pricing initiative, with phased deadlines for large and small firms. Exemptions exist for companies joining the initiative or moving production to the U.S., and nations with trade deals face lower rates. Separately, tariffs on steel, copper, and aluminum were revised to 50% based on actual consumer prices to curb undervaluation, and metal-containing products now have a 25% tariff. These actions are part of Trump's broader trade strategy after legal challenges, but spark debate over potential cost impacts on U.S. consumers.

China Secretly Expands Nuclear Arsenal, Sparking Arms Race Fears
World

China Secretly Expands Nuclear Arsenal, Sparking Arms Race Fears

China is secretly expanding its nuclear weapons infrastructure in Sichuan province, as evidenced by satellite imagery and government documents showing village demolitions and new facilities like the dome at Site 906. This modernization, the largest in decades, occurs after the New START treaty lapsed and aligns with President Xi's push for enhanced deterrence. The Trump administration seeks new arms control talks including China, but Beijing denies wrongdoing and upholds a self-defense policy. Experts warn this could trigger a complex new arms race, raising global security risks and potentially influencing dynamics around Taiwan. The expansion underscores China's rapid growth as a nuclear power, though it still lags behind the U.S. and Russia in arsenal size.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Ticket Price Hits $10,990
Sports

FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Ticket Price Hits $10,990

FIFA has increased the top ticket price for the 2026 World Cup final to $10,990 during the resale phase after all 48 teams were confirmed. The dynamic pricing system has caused significant price hikes for various matches, with limited availability initially. Technical issues disrupted sales, misdirecting fans and causing website problems. Over 60 U.S. Democratic senators oppose the pricing model, citing reduced accessibility. FIFA's official resale market charges a 15% fee, amid fan concerns about high resale costs. The tournament will be held across 16 cities in North America from June to July 2026.

Cuba Power Structure: Old Guard, Military, and Family in Crisis
Politics

Cuba Power Structure: Old Guard, Military, and Family in Crisis

Cuba is enduring a profound crisis marked by economic hardship and U.S. hostility under President Trump. The power structure is decentralized, with President Miguel Díaz-Canel sharing influence with aging revolutionaries like Raúl Castro and Ramiro Valdés. The military, through the FAR and GAESA, controls critical economic sectors. Emerging figures from the Castro family, including Alejandro and Mariela Castro Espín, are positioned for future roles. Despite Trump's threats, the Cuban government maintains control, navigating internal and external challenges.

Pam Bondi estaba destinada a fracasar. Pero ella lo hizo aún peor
Politics

Pam Bondi estaba destinada a fracasar. Pero ella lo hizo aún peor

Pam Bondi, Tổng chưởng lý Mỹ dưới thời Tổng thống Donald Trump, đã bị sa thải vào thứ Năm sau nhiệm kỳ ngắn nhất trong 60 năm cho vị trí được xác nhận. Hai thất bại chính dẫn đến việc này là việc xử lý vụ hồ sơ Jeffrey Epstein, nơi bà thổi phồng kỳ vọng nhưng không cung cấp thông tin mới, và chiến dịch trả đũa chính trị với nhiều vụ kiện bị bãi bỏ do bằng chứng yếu. Bà thất bại trong việc đáp ứng yêu cầu từ Trump về điều tra và truy tố các đối thủ chính trị. Sự việc này làm nổi bật sự căng thẳng giữa áp lực chính trị từ Tổng thống và nguyên tắc pháp lý tại Bộ Tư pháp.

Chief Justice Roberts Challenges Trump's Birthright Citizenship Order
Politics

Chief Justice Roberts Challenges Trump's Birthright Citizenship Order

The U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments on a challenge to birthright citizenship under the 14th Amendment, with Chief Justice John Roberts expressing clear skepticism toward former President Donald Trump's executive order restricting the right. Trump attended the hearing as a spectator but left early, while justices from both sides questioned the legal basis and practical consequences of overturning the 1898 Wong Kim Ark precedent. Roberts emphasized constitutional stability and highlighted the narrow historical exceptions to citizenship. The case centers on Trump's claim that children of undocumented immigrants should not be citizens, a position legal experts widely dispute. Following the hearing, Trump repeated a false claim that the U.S. is uniquely permissive of birthright citizenship. The court appeared divided, with no immediate indication of a majority to revisit the long-standing precedent.

Oil Prices Surge on Iran War Escalation Fears
Markets

Oil Prices Surge on Iran War Escalation Fears

Oil prices surged over 7% on Thursday due to escalating fears of the U.S.-Iran war, sparked by President Trump's threats and Iran's retaliatory warnings. Global stock markets declined, with South Korea's Kospi falling 4.5%. Trump announced plans for a strong strike on Iran within weeks while claiming the war is near its end, and threatened to bomb Iranian power plants. Iran vowed extensive retaliation. Concerns over potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil shipping route, added to market volatility. The conflict continues with missile attacks and warnings of further violence in the region.

Artemis II Moon Mission: NASA's Critical Step to Mars
Tech

Artemis II Moon Mission: NASA's Critical Step to Mars

NASA's Artemis II is an uncrewed lunar flyby mission designed to test technologies and gather data for future Mars exploration. The Orion spacecraft will endure extreme re-entry speeds to validate its heat shield, a key component for Mars missions. Scientists will study radiation effects on astronaut health during the journey, providing insights into deep-space hazards. The mission addresses challenges like high-energy radiation and altered gravity that are more severe than in low Earth orbit. Data from Artemis II will inform the design of spacecraft and systems for Mars, including resource utilization and autonomous life support. Ultimately, this flight is a foundational step in NASA's plan to extend human presence to the Red Planet.

Trump Fires AG Pam Bondi Over Epstein Files Controversy
Politics

Trump Fires AG Pam Bondi Over Epstein Files Controversy

President Donald Trump has fired Attorney General Pam Bondi, appointing Todd Blanche as interim. The dismissal stems from Trump's dissatisfaction with Bondi's handling of Jeffrey Epstein files and her perceived lack of action against political opponents. Bondi faced controversy over claims about an Epstein client list, which were later denied. This marks the second recent cabinet firing after Kristi Noem's ouster. Trump is considering Lee Zeldin for the role, while Bondi has no confirmed new position. Bondi was subpoenaed to testify on Epstein matters, but Republicans have downplayed the need for further testimony.