The University of Delaware men’s tennis team’s season came to an end Saturday afternoon in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, following a 4-0 defeat against top-seeded Middle Tennessee State University in the Conference USA semifinal round.
Delaware entered the match as the fifth seed but was unable to overcome the nationally-ranked Blue Raiders, who hold the 48th spot in national rankings. The loss concludes the Fightin’ Blue Hens’ season with a final record of 14 wins and 10 losses.
Middle Tennessee State advances to the conference championship match with their victory, carrying a 21-8 season record into the finals. The Blue Raiders will compete for the Conference USA title following their dominant semifinal performance against Delaware.
Delaware transportation officials have temporarily shut down a section of Route 9 following a vehicle collision that occurred earlier today.
The affected roadway spans from South Little Creek Road to Postles Corner Road, with traffic being diverted around the crash site while emergency responders work at the scene.
DelDOT has not yet provided details about the severity of the accident or an estimated timeline for when normal traffic flow will resume on this stretch of highway.
Motorists are advised to seek alternate routes and expect delays in the area until further notice.
Coast Guard search crews have located a capsized vessel in waters off Saipan during their ongoing mission to find a missing cargo ship that ran into trouble during severe weather conditions.
An HC-130 Hercules aircraft from Coast Guard Air Station Barbers Point discovered the overturned boat on Saturday while conducting search operations for the Mariana, a cargo vessel that went missing after mechanical problems struck.
The Mariana, which measures 145 feet in length and carries a U.S. registration, encountered engine troubles on Wednesday just as a powerful typhoon was approaching Saipan and surrounding islands in the Pacific region.
Search and rescue operations continue as Coast Guard teams work to determine the connection between the capsized vessel and the missing cargo ship that disappeared during the severe weather event.
ITHACA, N.Y. – The University of Delaware rowing squad captured three victories during Saturday’s Cornell Invite competition, facing off against host Cornell and Bucknell University.
The Blue Hens’ 1V4+ crew led the charge with two race victories, helping Delaware dominate the day’s events in Ithaca, New York.
The strong showing demonstrates the continued success of Delaware’s rowing program as they compete against established regional rivals in collegiate rowing.
SALISBURY, Md. – Salisbury University’s softball squad completed a doubleheader sweep against the University of Mary Washington on Saturday at Margie Knight Sea Gull Softball Stadium.
The Sea Gulls dominated the opening contest, securing a 9-1 victory in just six innings after invoking the run rule. In the nightcap, Salisbury held off the Eagles for a 4-2 triumph to complete the sweep.
With the twin victories, Salisbury improved their season record to 18-10, while Mary Washington dropped to 16-18 following the losses on the road.
The sweep gives the Sea Gulls significant momentum as they continue their campaign at their home venue in Salisbury, Maryland.
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore men’s volleyball team has punched their ticket to the Northeast Conference Tournament following a decisive victory over Manhattan College.
The Hawks dominated the Jaspers with a 3-1 match victory, marking their second win against Manhattan this season with an identical score line. The triumph came during UMES Senior Day festivities, adding extra significance to the achievement.
This latest victory ensures the Hawks will compete in the upcoming NEC Tournament as they continue their strong season performance. The team’s consistent play against Manhattan demonstrates their readiness for postseason competition.
The win represents an important milestone for the UMES volleyball program as they look to make a deep run in the conference tournament.
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore softball team dominated NC Central in a doubleheader sweep, powered by outstanding pitching performances from Clarke Calvin and teammate Skinner.
Both pitchers went the distance in their respective games, throwing complete games that anchored the Hawks’ victories over their opponents. The stellar mound work proved to be the difference-maker as UMES captured both contests of the twin bill.
Calvin’s complete game effort showcased the depth of talent in the Hawks’ pitching rotation, while Skinner’s equally impressive performance demonstrated the team’s ability to maintain consistent excellence throughout a demanding doubleheader schedule.
The sweep represents a significant achievement for the UMES softball program as they continue their competitive season. The Hawks’ ability to secure victories in both games of the doubleheader highlights the team’s preparation and execution when facing conference competition.
The Goldey-Beacom Lightning baseball team faced a challenging afternoon at home, suffering defeats in both ends of a doubleheader against Chestnut Hill College at Doyle Field in Hockessin.
The Lightning struggled in Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference play, losing the opening game by a score of 11-6 before falling again in the nightcap, 6-2.
The twin losses mark a setback for Goldey-Beacom as they continue their conference schedule this season.
Diplomatic tensions between Iran and the United States have intensified as Tehran pulls back from scheduled peace negotiations, undermining Pakistan’s extensive mediation efforts.
Iran’s decision to once again threaten closure of the Strait of Hormuz demonstrates that current ceasefire agreements and diplomatic talks remain precarious and unstable, despite Pakistan’s continued intervention attempts.
Pakistani military leader Field Marshal Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif both returned to their country on Saturday following separate diplomatic missions focused on resolving the Iranian conflict. Yet new friction between Tehran and Washington has become evident.
Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives, combined with encouraging responses from Iran and recent statements by U.S. President Donald Trump, had indicated that American and Iranian representatives would reconvene for discussions in Islamabad by Monday.
The diplomatic landscape shifted dramatically Saturday afternoon when Iranian officials began issuing statements declaring their nation unprepared to join the Islamabad negotiations.
Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh rejected the proposed timeline and scheduling for upcoming U.S.-Iran discussions.
Speaking with journalists at a diplomatic conference in Antalya, southern Turkey, on Saturday, Khatibzadeh characterized American assertions about the next negotiation round’s timing as “contradictory and vague,” according to Iranian state-run Press TV.
Khatibzadeh emphasized Iran’s unwavering dedication to diplomatic solutions despite current delicate circumstances, while calling on the United States to abandon its “maximalist approach” and honor international laws to guarantee “result-oriented diplomacy.”
Iran’s Supreme National Security Council announced Saturday that officials are examining “new proposals” delivered from the United States via Pakistani intermediaries, while emphasizing there will be no relaxation or concessions during negotiations.
Iranian state media reported that the security council’s statement indicated these proposals arrived during Field Marshal Asim Munir’s visit to Tehran.
Iran emphasized that its diplomatic representatives “will make no concessions, will not step back, and will not show weakness, but will firmly defend the interests of the Iranian nation.”
President Donald Trump cautioned Iran on Saturday against what he characterized as continuous changes in position regarding the Strait of Hormuz, declaring Washington would not be “blackmailed” on this matter.
During a White House gathering, President Trump stated: “We are talking to them (Iran). They wanted to close the Strait again, as they have done for years, but they cannot blackmail us.”
President Trump indicated that “very good talks” are continuing with Iran.
Nevertheless, the Iranian Tasnim News Agency reported Saturday, citing unnamed sources, that “Iran has so far not agreed on the next round of talks with the United States due to President Trump’s announcement regarding a naval blockade of Iran, as well as Washington’s excessive demands in the negotiations, which have continued in the recent exchange of messages.”
Pakistan continues establishing itself as a crucial intermediary between Washington and Tehran.
Observers contend that regional complications and conflicting international priorities have become so intricate that mediation by a single nation may prove inadequate to completely reduce tensions.
Despite these challenges, a Pakistani military statement confirmed the country’s dedication to pursuing comprehensive efforts toward achieving peace between Iran and the United States.
Pakistan has not yet provided any official statement regarding these recent developments that have quickly altered the diplomatic situation. However, Islamabad’s behind-the-scenes diplomacy continues operating at full capacity, while extensive security measures have been implemented in preparation for anticipated foreign delegate arrivals for the discussions.
CLEVELAND — Despite having a stronger supporting cast this postseason, Donovan Mitchell continues his tradition of making bold statements in playoff series openers.
The Cleveland Cavaliers All-Star guard maintained his remarkable consistency Saturday, scoring 32 points to lead his team to a 126-113 win against the Toronto Raptors in their Eastern Conference first-round playoff opener.
Mitchell’s performance marks an unprecedented ninth consecutive playoff series opener where he has reached the 30-point threshold, establishing a new NBA record.
“It’s not something like I’m searching for,” Mitchell explained regarding his pursuit of 30 points to begin each series. “It’s just something that I’m playing my game. Just trying to set a tone of aggression by getting downhill, taking the open shots, taking what’s given to me and obviously making the defense have to react.”
This historic run started during Mitchell’s time with Utah in the 2020 playoffs at Walt Disney World in Florida amid the COVID-19 pandemic, when he exploded for 57 points against Denver. That performance still stands as a Jazz playoff record and ranks as the third-highest individual scoring effort in NBA postseason history.
Throughout this nine-game stretch, Mitchell holds a 5-4 record in series openers, including a 3-3 mark since joining Cleveland following his September 2022 trade from Utah.
While recently-acquired James Harden helped stabilize Cleveland during a tight first half, it was Mitchell alongside Max Strus who delivered the decisive blows in the second half against Toronto.
At halftime, Harden led the scoring with 15 points compared to Mitchell’s 13, as Cleveland held a 61-54 advantage. The third quarter belonged to Mitchell, who added 11 points, and Strus, who contributed eight, as the Cavaliers built a commanding 21-point lead entering the final period.
“That’s his job. That’s what he gets paid the big bucks for being aggressive, taking shots and doing his thing. We understand that, so our job is to just go out there and fulfill the roles and do other things to impact the game,” Harden commented. “I think for me, it’s trying to get more assists and trying to get into the paint. We’ve got shooting, we’ve got bigs who are versatile and athletic. My job is to get them the ball.”
Harden concluded the game with 22 points and 10 assists that generated 23 points for teammates. Six of those assists found center Jarrett Allen and forward Evan Mobley.
Mitchell reached his 30-point milestone on a driving layup with 9:28 left on the clock, pushing Cleveland’s advantage to 106-84. The nine-year veteran connected on 7 of 13 attempts from inside the paint, an approach that impressed head coach Kenny Atkinson.
“I said that before the game, how we’ve changed our mindset where we’ve become more rim- and paint-oriented. Don, he can try to do those pirouette 3s, but I think he was locked in on getting to the rim and made some really good decisions,” Atkinson noted.
Mitchell’s 33.1 points per game average in series openers ranks second in NBA history among players who have participated in at least 10 postseason series. His overall playoff scoring average of 28.4 points ties with LeBron James for sixth-best among players with a minimum of 50 playoff games.
“I thought we handled the environment and the crowd pretty well. They had a lot of guys scoring at a high rate and they got a lot of easy shots, getting to the rim and dunks,” said Toronto’s Scottie Barnes, who finished with 21 points.
WASHINGTON — A federal appeals court has temporarily lifted restrictions on President Donald Trump’s controversial $400 million White House ballroom project, overturning a lower court’s decision to halt above-ground construction work.
The three-judge panel from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit issued the temporary stay late Friday, reversing U.S. District Judge Richard Leon’s order that had stopped surface-level construction. The appeals court has set a hearing date of June 5 to examine the matter further.
Judge Leon’s Thursday decision had permitted only underground construction to proceed, specifically work on bunker facilities and other “national security installations” beneath the site. His order blocked all above-ground development of the proposed 90,000-square-foot ballroom expansion.
The President demolished the existing East Wing last fall to make way for the enormous ballroom facility. The National Trust for Historic Preservation subsequently filed a lawsuit challenging the construction, claiming Trump exceeded his executive powers by proceeding without proper authorization from essential federal departments and congressional approval.
Leon initially sided with the preservation organization in late March, though he temporarily suspended his ruling while permitting subterranean work to proceed. The Trump administration subsequently filed an appeal.
The President has defended the ballroom project as a necessary expansion to the White House facilities that has been needed for years. He maintains his authority to proceed with construction since private donations from wealthy donors and corporations will fund the project, although taxpayer money will cover security-related components.
A Coast Guard search aircraft has located a capsized ship that may be the missing cargo vessel Mariana, which vanished with six people aboard during a powerful typhoon near Saipan, officials announced Saturday.
The HC-130 Hercules search plane discovered the overturned vessel Saturday morning approximately 100 nautical miles northeast of where the Mariana was last tracked, according to Coast Guard officials. The capsized ship was found 34 nautical miles northeast of Pagan, a small island located north of Saipan in the western Pacific.
Coast Guard officials confirmed the capsized vessel appears consistent with the Mariana’s description – a 145-foot dry cargo ship registered in the United States.
The cargo vessel experienced engine trouble Wednesday when Typhoon Sinlaku approached Saipan and surrounding islands, bringing destructive winds and heavy rainfall. After the crew radioed that their starboard engine had failed and they required help, Coast Guard personnel established hourly radio contact with the ship.
However, all communication ceased Thursday. A search aircraft departed that morning but was forced to return to Guam because of dangerous wind conditions.
The Mariana’s final recorded location was roughly 140 miles north-northwest of Saipan, positioned about 3,800 miles west of Hawaii.
Coast Guard headquarters in Honolulu is collecting details about the capsized vessel, according to an official statement.
Authorities have not released information about the crew members’ nationalities.
Multiple assets will join the ongoing search operation, including a U.S. Navy Boeing P-8A Poseidon aircraft, a Coast Guard cutter, and Japanese coast guard aircraft and vessels with specialized diving capabilities.
Typhoon Sinlaku caused extensive damage across Saipan, creating flooding, destroying rooftops, and flipping vehicles. The storm’s massive size subjected the island to approximately 48 hours of destructive winds, hampering emergency responders’ efforts to evaluate damage and assist affected communities.
BLUE MOUNDS, Wis. — Law enforcement officers used rubber bullets and pepper spray to disperse nearly 1,000 animal rights demonstrators who attempted to force their way into a Wisconsin beagle breeding operation on Saturday, resulting in multiple arrests including the protest leader.
The confrontation at Ridglan Farms in Blue Mounds marked the second time in two months that activists have targeted the facility, located roughly 25 miles southwest of Madison, in an effort to remove dogs from the premises.
Dane County Sheriff Kalvin Barrett described the scene in a video statement, saying 300 to 400 demonstrators were “violently trying to break into the property” and assault officers. Barrett noted that protesters had abandoned designated peaceful demonstration zones and were blocking roadways, preventing emergency responders from accessing the area.
“This is not a peaceful protest,” Barrett said.
Authorities reported arresting a “significant” number of individuals from the crowd of approximately 1,000 protesters, though exact figures were not available Saturday afternoon as processing continued.
Demonstrators attempted to breach multiple security measures including a trench filled with manure, hay bales, and barbed wire fencing. While some activists managed to penetrate the perimeter, none succeeded in accessing the building housing an estimated 2,000 beagles, according to the Wisconsin State Journal.
“I just feel defeated,” activist Julie Vrzeski told the newspaper approximately three hours after the operation began with no dogs successfully removed. The protesters later relocated to demonstrate outside the Madison jail.
The Coalition to Save the Ridglan Dogs had announced plans to take the animals on Sunday but moved their operation up by one day. Group leader Wayne Hsiung’s social media account posted an image of his arrest at the scene.
Sheriff’s officials reported arresting an individual who “recklessly” drove a pickup truck through the facility’s front gate, “preventing a potentially deadly outcome.”
In March, demonstrators broke into the same facility and removed 30 dogs, leading to the arrest of 27 people on trespassing and related charges.
While Ridglan has maintained it does not mistreat animals, the company agreed in October to surrender its state breeding license by July 1 as part of an agreement to avoid prosecution on animal mistreatment allegations.
According to the company’s website, Ridglan states that “no credible evidence of animal abuse, cruelty, mistreatment or neglect at Ridglan Farms has ever been presented or substantiated.”
An Israeli reserve soldier lost his life and three others sustained injuries Friday when an explosive went off during a weapons search mission in southern Lebanon, just 24 hours after a ceasefire agreement between the two nations began.
Israeli military officials identified the deceased as Warrant Officer (res.) Barak Kalfon, age 48, who served with the 226th Reserve Paratroopers Brigade’s 7056th Battalion and lived in Adi. Preliminary military reports indicate the explosion happened while soldiers were examining a structure for weapons in the village of Al-Jibbain, and the device was not triggered from a distance.
Thursday’s ceasefire agreement requires Israel to avoid military operations unless under attack, while maintaining its authority to defend against threats.
Saturday brought additional developments when Israeli forces from the 401st Armored Brigade reported encountering what they described as “a cell of terrorists that violated the ceasefire understandings and approached the forces in a manner that posed an immediate threat, during their activity in southern Lebanon, south of the forward defense line area used to prevent a direct threat to northern communities.”
Military officials also announced they targeted a tunnel entrance after witnessing Hezbollah fighters emerging from the location.
In a separate development, Axios news outlet reported that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed surprise at President Donald Trump’s social media statement claiming Israel was “prohibited” from attacking Hezbollah. Trump posted on Truth Social: “Israel will not be bombing Lebanon any longer. They are PROHIBITED from doing so by the U.S.A. Enough is enough!!!”
The post led Israel to request clarification from the White House over concerns it contradicted the ceasefire terms. Speaking with Axios, Trump maintained his position, stating: “Israel has to stop. They can’t continue to blow buildings up. I am not gonna allow it.”
A U.S. official subsequently clarified that policy remained unchanged, explaining: “The President’s ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel clearly states that Israel will not carry out any offensive military operations against Lebanese targets but preserves its right to self-defense against planned, imminent or ongoing attacks.”
A 19-year-old Kurdish female fighter has died following an Iranian drone attack in Iraq’s Kurdistan Region, marking another tragic loss in the ongoing conflict between Iranian forces and Kurdish opposition groups.
Ghazal Molan was laid to rest Thursday afternoon in Sulaymaniyah amid continued Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps drone and missile attacks throughout the region. Mourners gathered to honor the young woman who had become known as the youngest female Peshmerga fighter opposing Iran’s Islamic Republic.
The fatal attack occurred Tuesday evening when Iranian forces launched a drone strike against a residential complex in Surdash that housed families connected to the Komala Zahmtkeshan Party of Iranian Kurdistan. Molan sustained critical injuries in the strike and later succumbed to her wounds.
At just 18 years old, Molan had crossed the border to join Kurdish armed resistance forces fighting against the Iranian government. Her death has drawn attention to the broader struggle of Kurdish opposition groups operating in the region.
Omar Ilkhanizadeh, who serves as deputy secretary-general of Komala, emphasized the significance of Kurdish forces in regional politics. “Kurdish forces represent a key part of any alternative to the Islamic Republic, embodying principles such as pluralism, secularism, and democratic freedoms,” Ilkhanizadeh stated.
The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between Iran and Kurdish opposition movements, with Iranian forces continuing to target Kurdish positions across the border in Iraq’s autonomous Kurdistan Region.
American tennis player Ben Shelton secured his spot in the BMW Open championship match on Saturday, defeating Slovakian qualifier Alex Molcan 6-3, 6-4 in Munich, Germany.
The second-seeded Shelton ended Molcan’s impressive tournament run and will now meet Italy’s Flavio Cobolli in Sunday’s final. Cobolli pulled off a major upset by defeating top-seeded defending champion Alexander Zverev of Germany 6-3, 6-3.
While Shelton didn’t showcase his typically dominant serving game, he managed to avoid trouble by facing just one break point throughout the entire match. The American capitalized on crucial moments, breaking Molcan’s serve late in both sets to earn his place in his seventh ATP Tour final.
Cobolli delivered a masterful performance against Zverev, unleashing 32 winners on the clay surface while dropping only eight points on his own serve. The Italian achieved his first career victory over a Top-5 ranked player, breaking the powerful German’s serve four times, including the decisive final game.
Shelton holds a 3-2 advantage in their career head-to-head record, having won all three encounters in 2025.
Barcelona Open Results
At the Barcelona Open ATP 500 clay court tournament, Russia’s Andrey Rublev and France’s Arthur Fils both battled through three-set semifinals to reach the championship match.
Fifth-seeded Rublev mounted a comeback victory over Serbian qualifier Hamad Medjedovic 3-6, 6-2, 6-2, while ninth-seeded Fils overcame Spain’s Rafael Jodar 3-6, 6-3, 6-2.
Rublev secured his 29th ATP final appearance by winning the match’s final four games. He successfully converted four of nine break point opportunities, compared to Medjedovic’s one of six.
Fils ended Jodar’s eight-match winning streak by producing 28 winners against just 11 for the 19-year-old Spaniard. After the third set was tied 3-3, Fils saved four break points, broke Jodar’s serve, and then defended two additional break chances in the final game to secure victory.
The two finalists have an even 1-1 record in previous meetings, with Fils claiming victory on clay courts during their 2025 Monte-Carlo encounter in straight sets.
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Anyone willing to wager on Chase Elliott with just one lap remaining in overtime during last September’s race at Kansas Speedway on the 28th would have faced incredibly long odds.
When the white flag waved, Elliott sat in fifth position, trailing four Toyota drivers: Bubba Wallace, Denny Hamlin, Chase Briscoe, and Christopher Bell. Wallace had pulled ahead by half a car length with Hamlin giving chase.
In a move that would prove costly, Hamlin drove his No. 11 Camry to the inside of Wallace’s vehicle, pushing Wallace wide through the track’s final two turns. This created an opening that Elliott exploited, diving inside both Toyota cars to capture victory for Hendrick Motorsports and Chevrolet.
Speaking Saturday ahead of practice for Sunday’s AdventHealth 400 at Kansas (2 p.m. ET on FOX, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio), Hamlin acknowledged the broader implications of that moment. “It certainly played a factor, kind of in the manufacturer battle as well, right?” Hamlin said. “I mean, you go from winning one to now your competition actually won.
“There were definitely a lot of negatives to the way that race ended, but it certainly was I just, I feel like, I was trying to go for it, certainly, and used a little bit too much aggression, for sure, in Turn 3.
“But overall, you’re going to have that in racing. When you have teammates, manufacturer guys that you all share information with, we’re going to always be right around each other. So sometimes those racing incidents happen in one out of 20 times.”
Despite holding the record for most Kansas victories with four wins, Hamlin expressed amazement at his recent inability to reach Victory Lane at the track.
“For the last six years, if someone else wins a Kansas race, I’m just trying to figure out how we didn’t win, because we’re always just so fast here,” Hamlin said.
“We found 10 to 12 different ways to not win here, and I thought I saw the stat this week that there has only been. … I think (Kyle) Larson’s been the only repeat winner here in the last 11 races, and it was like, the fact that we haven’t is just criminal. So, hopefully we can change that.”
Gibbs Advocates for More Physical Racing
Fresh off his inaugural NASCAR Cup Series triumph, 23-year-old Ty Gibbs believes the sport should become more demanding and physically challenging for drivers.
“I think we should rip all the cool suits out of everyone’s cars and make it a more physical sport,” Gibbs said Saturday. “I think that would be very entertaining and bring out more emotion, obviously…
“I think no cool suits — rip ’em all out. I think, honestly, people would be pumped with that, ’cause half the time they break on everybody and make it worse. I think we should rip all of it out, make it more physical.”
Cool suits are designed to regulate temperatures inside the car’s cockpit when functioning correctly. However, when these systems fail, the circulating water can become overheated and actually increase driver discomfort.
Several drivers, including Gibbs’ teammate Denny Hamlin, opt not to utilize cool suits during competition.
Jones Optimistic About New LEGACY Leadership
LEGACY Motor Club’s newly appointed president brings more than administrative experience to the organization, according to driver Erik Jones, who spoke Saturday at Kansas Speedway before Sunday’s AdventHealth 400.
Michael Guttilla arrives with extensive experience as chief operating officer at Joe Gibbs Racing and previous roles as vice president of engineering, R&D, global sales and marketing at automotive supplier Multimatic, providing LEGACY with diverse expertise.
“I didn’t know him beforehand, but I had a chance to sit down and spend some time with him in the last week and a half,” Jones explained Saturday. “I think he’s a super impressive guy. His resume’s really strong, and he’s done a lot of things, in motorsports and in manufacturing and production cars.
“He has a pretty broad range of skills, and I think he has a lot of managerial skills. I think the role he’s in is great, obviously, but I think he can bring a lot to the table and a sense of understanding the engineering side as well. I don’t think he’s a guy that is just well-versed in business, but I think he’s well versed in competition and performance.
“I’m excited to have him. We’ve been kind of waiting to fill that role and find the right guy, and that’s been a role that wasn’t just randomly filled when Michael became available. It was something that’s been in the works, and we’ve been trying to find the right fit for a while. I was excited to do that, excited to have him, and see what he can bring. It’s still super early. It’s been a couple of weeks, but I really, I think his influence is already starting to be felt a bit.”
Women Drivers Shine in ARCA Competition
While Gio Ruggiero claimed victory in Saturday’s Tide 150 ARCA Menards Series race at Kansas Speedway, several compelling storylines developed throughout the field.
Three of four female competitors secured top-10 finishes, with Lanie Buice placing fifth, Jade Avedisian finishing seventh, and Dystany Spurlock earning 10th place. The race marked Avedisian’s debut on a 1.5-mile intermediate track.
Isabella Robusto, the fourth female driver and a former Kansas pole winner, was competing just outside the top 10 when Cleetus McFarland’s car experienced engine failure, spreading oil across the racing surface.
Robusto lost control in the fluid, crashed into the outside barrier, and was eliminated from competition.
Daniel Dye secured second place in his first race following reinstatement from a suspension related to inappropriate remarks directed toward IndyCar driver David Malukas.
Elena Rybakina, the tournament’s top seed from Kazakhstan, dominated her semifinal match against sixth-seeded Mirra Andreeva with a 7-5, 6-1 victory on Saturday, securing her spot in the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix championship match in Stuttgart, Germany.
The Kazakhstani player will meet Czech Republic’s seventh-seeded Karolina Muchova in Sunday’s title match. Muchova earned her place in the final by defeating fourth-seeded Ukrainian Elina Svitolina 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 in a competitive three-set battle.
Rybakina, fresh off her 2026 Australian Open championship and Indian Wells final appearance, traded early service breaks with the Russian Andreeva before seizing control late in the opening set, claiming four out of five points during Andreeva’s service game to take the set. The second set proved one-sided as Rybakina dominated both her own first serves and Andreeva’s second serve attempts, capturing 21 of 25 total points in those situations.
The Muchova-Svitolina semifinal appeared headed for a tight finish until the Czech player closed out the match with authority, taking the final eight points including four consecutive points while Svitolina served in the ninth game. This victory sets up the fourth career encounter between Muchova and Rybakina, with the Czech player holding a 2-1 advantage in their previous meetings, including a quarterfinal win at Brisbane in January.
At the Rouen Metropolitan Open in France, Ukraine’s top-seeded Marta Kostyuk advanced to the final with a commanding 6-3, 6-0 victory over Germany’s Tatjana Maria.
Kostyuk will face fellow Ukrainian teenager Veronika Podrez, who reached the final when Romania’s Sonia Cirstea withdrew from their scheduled semifinal due to a leg injury. Kostyuk successfully defended against all four break point opportunities created by the 38-year-old German opponent, while Maria struggled to handle Kostyuk’s aggressive style, losing 32 of her 43 service points for a 74.4% loss rate.
The 19-year-old Podrez earned her semifinal berth by defeating notable opponents including Sloane Stephens, Italy’s seventh-seeded Elisabetta Cocciaretto, and Great Britain’s Katie Boulter. Kostyuk enters the final seeking her second WTA championship and first since capturing the Austin, Texas title in 2023.
The Hawks baseball squad came up just short in a high-scoring affair against the Lakers, falling 6-5 in the second game of their series despite a solid offensive showing.
The Hawks managed to connect for four doubles that drove in runs throughout the contest, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Lakers’ attack. The team’s ability to find gaps and drive in runners kept them competitive in what turned into a back-and-forth battle.
On the mound, pitcher Richard De Jesus delivered a quality start for the Hawks, working five complete innings while recording three strikeouts. De Jesus kept his team in the game during his time on the hill before turning duties over to the bullpen.
The narrow one-run loss highlighted both the Hawks’ offensive capabilities and the competitive nature of their matchup with the Lakers. Despite the setback, the team showed they could generate runs and stay within striking distance throughout the game.
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A historic individual achievement was overshadowed by a disappointing team result for Salisbury University’s men’s lacrosse squad on Saturday.
Senior Blake Malamphy accomplished a remarkable milestone by securing his 1,000th career faceoff victory during the Sea Gulls’ matchup against Christopher Newport University. However, the celebration was dampened as the sixth-ranked Sea Gulls suffered a 12-9 defeat to the fourth-ranked Captains at Jennings Family Stadium.
The loss proved costly in the race for conference positioning, as Christopher Newport claimed the advantage in the battle for the top seed in the Coastal Lacrosse Conference standings.
Malamphy’s achievement represents years of dominance at the faceoff X, marking him as one of the elite specialists in college lacrosse. The milestone came during one of the most important games of the season for both teams.
The Sea Gulls will need to regroup quickly as they continue their pursuit of conference championship aspirations despite this setback against a top-five opponent.
OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma City Thunder are no longer the scrappy underdogs as they launch their championship defense Sunday at home facing the Phoenix Suns.
While Oklahoma City maintains its status as one of the NBA’s youngest rosters, reigning Most Valuable Player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander now commands a battle-tested squad that survived two grueling seven-game playoff series last season, culminating in an NBA Finals victory over the Indiana Pacers.
The Thunder followed their championship run by compiling the NBA’s top regular season mark at 64-18, edging out the San Antonio Spurs for home-court advantage throughout the playoffs. Oklahoma City now faces the fresh challenge of defending their crown.
“This playoff run is so unique and so different to the last one, and we have to have the ability to understand that every series is going to be different, every game is going be different,” Thunder guard/forward Jalen Williams said.
Oklahoma City enters the postseason on fire, capturing 19 victories in their final 20 contests before resting key players in the season’s final two games. The Thunder have suffered just one defeat since the All-Star break with Gilgeous-Alexander active, and their most recent home loss with him came January 25 against Toronto.
Gilgeous-Alexander ranked second league-wide with 31.1 points per contest. All-Star teammate Chet Holmgren contributed 17.1 points and 8.9 assists while finishing second in the NBA with 1.9 blocks per game.
However, Oklahoma City’s championship path won’t come easily. Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault emphasized that despite Phoenix earning their playoff spot through the play-in tournament, the Suns represent a legitimate postseason threat deserving respect. Phoenix concluded the regular season 45-37 and advanced to the NBA Cup quarterfinals. All-Star Devin Booker contributed 26.1 points and six assists nightly.
Suns head coach Jordan Ott expressed pride in his team’s recovery from Tuesday’s play-in tournament defeat to Portland, bouncing back with Friday’s victory over Golden State to claim the eighth seed.
“I think that the group that’s in that locker room has a ton of resilience and wants to do things different, and that’s what we stress from the get-go,” Ott said. “And sometimes the road’s not always the one that you choose and think it’s going to happen or the one that’s most traveled. Sometimes, it’s the least traveled. So we found our way in. Now, it’s onto the next thing.”
Three prominent members of Canada’s national squad will feature in this matchup — Gilgeous-Alexander and defensive specialist Lu Dort representing the Thunder, with Dillon Brooks suiting up for the Suns.
Brooks stands among the league’s premier defenders and most effective agitators. He posted a career-best 20.2 points this season.
Thunder guard Ajay Mitchell entered last year’s playoffs battling through multiple injuries. As a rookie, he saw limited postseason action.
This season, Mitchell has become crucial to Oklahoma City’s success while establishing himself among the NBA’s elite bench players. He improved from 6.5 points last season to 13.6 this year.
Williams endured the entire previous playoff run with a hand injury requiring surgical repair. This season, he missed 19 games early while recovering from that procedure and 30 additional contests healing from a hamstring problem.
He’s now fully healthy and prepared for action.
“I feel extremely fresh because I played, like, 12 games,” he said.
Phoenix’s Jalen Green delivered explosive performances in both play-in contests. He scored 35 points in the Portland loss, then erupted for 36 in the Golden State Warriors victory.
That production significantly exceeds his 17.8-point regular season average. Green’s recent surge will challenge the Thunder’s defensive planning between focusing on him or Booker.
“I’m very comfortable playing up there with Book,” Green said. “You kind of have to pick your poison of how you’re going to guard it. Even if it’s a heavy shift or not, we kind of play off each other in that situation.”
Oklahoma City captured three of five regular season encounters. In the most significant meetings, the Thunder demolished the Suns 138-89 during NBA Cup play, while Phoenix responded with a 108-105 victory in their building on January 4.
Residents in New Castle County should prepare for minor coastal flooding tonight as the National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory effective from 11 PM tonight through 3 AM Sunday morning.
Up to one foot of water above ground level is expected in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways. The flooding will primarily impact the most vulnerable roads along tidal areas, with some partial or full road closures possible.
Salem County, New Jersey is also included in this advisory.
Officials are urging drivers to avoid parking vehicles in flood-prone locations and never attempt to drive through standing water. “The water may be deeper than you think,” warns the Weather Service, emphasizing that drivers could face personal danger and costly vehicle damage.
While this is considered minor flooding, it’s enough to make some roadways impassable during the overnight hours. Residents should plan alternate routes if traveling during the advisory period.
The Coastal Flood Advisory will remain in effect until 3 AM Sunday morning. For real-time water level information and flood impacts for local tide gauges, residents can visit the National Water Prediction Service online.
Stay with TV Delmarva for continued weather updates throughout the night.
Residents and visitors along the Delaware coast and Cape May area should prepare for minor coastal flooding tonight as high tides bring up to one foot of water above ground level to low-lying areas.
The National Weather Service issued a Coastal Flood Advisory effective from 8 PM tonight through 2 AM Sunday morning. The advisory covers Delaware’s beaches, inland Sussex County, and both Cape May County and Atlantic Coastal Cape May in New Jersey.
Flooding is expected to impact the most vulnerable coastal and bayside roads, as well as areas along inland tidal waterways. Drivers may encounter partial or full road closures in these flood-prone zones.
“Minor tidal flooding often results in some road closures, usually affecting the most vulnerable roadways,” weather officials warned.
Authorities urge residents to avoid parking vehicles in flood-prone locations and never attempt to drive through flood waters, which may be deeper than they appear. Such attempts put drivers at risk and can cause costly vehicle damage.
The advisory expires at 2 AM Sunday. Residents can monitor local water levels and additional flood impact information at the National Water Prediction Service website at water.noaa.gov/wfo/phi.
Stay with TV Delmarva for continued weather updates throughout the evening.
South Korean military officials reported Sunday that North Korea launched a ballistic missile in an eastward direction, according to the Yonhap News Agency.
The missile launch represents the first such test conducted by North Korea since April 8, adding to a string of similar weapons tests that have occurred throughout this year.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff provided the information about the launch to Yonhap News Agency. When contacted for additional details, South Korea’s Defense Ministry had not yet provided a response to requests for comment.
Representatives from the Democratic Republic of Congo’s government and the rebel group Alliance Fleuve Congo have reached significant agreements during peace talks held in Switzerland this week, according to a Saturday announcement from the U.S. State Department.
The two sides made substantial headway on establishing protocols covering humanitarian aid access, judicial protections, monitoring of ceasefire conditions, and the freeing of detained individuals, State Department officials reported.
In a joint statement released by the State Department alongside both the Congolese government and rebel representatives, the negotiating parties committed to ending attacks on civilian populations and ensuring safe passage for aid workers and relief supply convoys operating in the region.
Residents in Kent County, Delaware should prepare for minor coastal flooding tonight as the National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory effective from 8 PM this evening through 2 AM Sunday morning.
Up to one foot of water inundation is expected in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways across the region. The flooding will primarily impact the most vulnerable coastal and bayside roads, with some partial or full road closures possible.
“At this level, flooding begins on the most vulnerable roads in coastal and bayside communities, and along inland tidal waterways,” according to the National Weather Service Mount Holly office, which issued the advisory at 4 PM today.
Officials are urging drivers to avoid parking vehicles in flood-prone areas and never attempt to drive through standing water. The water depth can be deceptive and may cause significant vehicle damage or put drivers in danger.
While the flooding is classified as minor, residents should remain cautious during the overnight hours when high tide conditions will be at their peak. The advisory is set to expire at 2 AM Sunday morning.
For real-time water level information, residents can visit the National Water Prediction Service website.
Good evening, Delmarva! We’re looking at a mild but somewhat unsettled Saturday night ahead. Temperatures will hold steady around 52 degrees before actually climbing to near 59 overnight – that’s thanks to a warm front moving through our area.
The main story tonight is fog development between 9 PM and 2 AM, so please use extra caution if you’re driving during those hours. Visibility could be significantly reduced across the peninsula. After 2 AM, that fog may linger in spots while we pick up a slight chance for some light rain showers. Don’t cancel your evening plans, though – we’re only looking at a 20% chance of precipitation.
Looking ahead to Sunday, rain showers become much more likely as our weather pattern becomes more active. Then we’ll see a nice clearing trend Sunday night with temperatures dropping to a crisp 41 degrees. Monday starts pleasant but brings another chance for light showers by evening.
Stay safe out there tonight in any foggy conditions, and I’ll see you tomorrow with your Sunday forecast!
SALISBURY, Md. – The top-ranked Salisbury University women’s lacrosse team delivered a commanding performance Friday, overwhelming St. Mary’s College of Maryland 23-8 to preserve their undefeated season.
The Sea Gulls’ explosive attack activated the mercy rule running clock during the third quarter before adding five additional goals in the fourth period against their Maryland rivals.
Harrington spearheaded the offensive explosion that helped Salisbury maintain their perfect record and number one national ranking. The lopsided victory showcased the team’s depth and scoring ability across multiple quarters.
The win keeps Salisbury’s championship aspirations on track as they continue their dominant campaign through the 2026 season.
NEWARK, Del. – Head coach Sarah Jenkins revealed Saturday that the University of Delaware women’s basketball team has secured the commitment of Frances Ulysse, who is joining the Blue Hens as a transfer from Longwood University.
The announcement marks another addition to the Blue Hens’ roster as the program continues to build for the upcoming season under Jenkins’ leadership.
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – Delaware’s Blue Hens track and field athletes took part in the Virginia Challenge meet this past weekend, competing at the University of Virginia’s facilities.
The three-day athletic competition ran from April 16 through April 18, giving the Blue Hens squad an opportunity to compete against other collegiate programs in Charlottesville.
The University of Virginia served as host for the multi-day track and field event, welcoming teams from across the region to participate in the spring competition.
The Trump Organization has announced plans to develop a massive skyscraper in the Republic of Georgia’s capital city, according to a Wall Street Journal report published Saturday.
The proposed 70-story structure, which will carry the name “Trump Tower Tbilisi,” is designed as a mixed-use development that would claim the title of tallest building in Georgia’s capital, according to representatives from the Trump Organization’s development partners.
Reuters was unable to independently confirm the details of the project, and the Trump Organization has not responded to requests for comment about the development.
This international expansion follows the company’s February announcement of plans to construct its first Australian tower, a project valued at approximately A$1.5 billion, or $1.07 billion in U.S. currency.
The planned Tbilisi development will feature upscale residential units, commercial retail spaces, and amenities similar to those found in luxury hotels, according to the Wall Street Journal report.
Architecture firm Gensler has been selected to design the tower, while financial backing comes from a group of investors including Georgian real estate company Archi Group and Biograpi Living, which operates as part of a larger Georgian business conglomerate.
Following President Trump’s inauguration in January, the Trump Organization announced that all of the president’s business holdings, investments, and commercial interests would be placed into a trust overseen by his children, with Trump stepping away from daily business operations and major decisions.
Despite this arrangement, Trump remains a beneficiary of the trust that controls the Trump Organization, meaning he will receive income from these international projects once his presidency concludes.
As cost-of-living concerns continue to weigh heavily on families nationwide, NPR correspondent Jennifer Ludden recently discussed her ongoing coverage of government policies affecting Americans’ ability to secure affordable housing and food.
Ludden’s reporting focuses on examining how various policy decisions at different levels of government influence whether families can access basic necessities within their budgets. Her work explores the intersection of policy-making and everyday affordability challenges that an increasing number of Americans face.
The journalist’s coverage comes at a time when housing costs and food prices remain significant financial burdens for many households across the country.
The Justice Department is bringing aboard an attorney with ties to former President Donald Trump to handle the ongoing investigation of ex-CIA Director John Brennan, according to CNN reporting on Saturday.
Network sources indicate that Joseph diGenova, who previously served on Trump’s legal team for various matters, will be assigned to the Justice Department’s Southern District of Florida office to work on the Brennan investigation. Brennan, who now works as a television news commentator and has been a vocal Trump critic, has denounced any investigations targeting him as politically motivated and an abuse of the justice system.
Neither the Justice Department nor diGenova’s legal practice responded to Reuters’ requests for statements. Brennan’s legal representation has previously stated that no legitimate grounds exist for such an investigation.
News of diGenova’s assignment follows the recent departure of Maria Medetis Long, a senior career prosecutor with the Miami U.S. Attorney’s office, who informed lawyers connected to the case that she would no longer be involved.
Reuters previously reported that the FBI intends to conduct interviews with approximately six individuals, including former intelligence agency officials, over the coming weeks as the Brennan investigation continues.
A Justice Department official revealed to Reuters that internal dissatisfaction exists regarding how slowly the investigation has moved forward. Another source with knowledge of the matter indicated that some witness interviews may not occur until June.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has encountered pressure to pursue prosecutions against individuals Trump views as political adversaries, following the removal of his predecessor Pam Bondi due to Trump’s displeasure with her approach to investigations he had requested.
DiGenova, a former federal prosecutor, served on Trump’s defense team during Robert Mueller’s investigation into Russian election interference in 2016. He later joined pro-Trump attorneys in efforts to challenge the 2020 election outcome, drawing attention when he suggested that a former Trump administration cybersecurity official should be “Taken out at dawn and shot.”
Iran shut down the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz shipping channel on Saturday, responding to U.S. naval blockade actions with a declaration that the waterway will stay sealed until “the war fully ends and lasting peace is achieved in the region.”
During a White House press briefing, President Trump minimized the significance of Iran’s action while noting that diplomatic discussions with Tehran continue to advance positively.
Iran “got a little cute” by shutting down the Strait of Hormuz, Trump told reporters, emphasizing that negotiations are “working really well.” The president noted “They wanted to close up the strait again,” but insisted “they can’t blackmail us.”
Iran’s Supreme National Security Council issued a formal declaration stating they had received fresh U.S. proposals delivered through Pakistani intermediaries. While avoiding specific details about the proposal’s contents, the council cautioned that America must drop “excessive demands and adjust its requests to the realities on the ground.” The council justified the strait closure by claiming the U.S. naval blockade breached existing truce agreements.
A senior Iranian representative informed CNN that Tehran plans to fast-track vessels willing to pay transit fees. “Given the limitation on the number of vessels that will be allowed to pass,” the official explained to the network, “Iran has decided to give priority to those vessels that respond more quickly to the new Strait of Hormuz protocols and pay the costs of security and safety services.”
Ships refusing to pay the required fees will have their transit “postponed,” according to the Iranian official.
This fee-based system mirrors Iran’s previous attempts to charge ships for Strait of Hormuz passage, which Washington previously rejected while demanding unrestricted access for all maritime traffic.
Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal reported that U.S. military forces are preparing imminent operations to intercept Iran-connected oil tankers and commandeer commercial vessels in international waters, according to government sources. The report indicates this would significantly expand Washington’s naval enforcement operations beyond Middle Eastern waters.
NEWARK, Del. – University of Delaware’s Scott Conte made lacrosse history Saturday afternoon, capturing 26 faceoffs in a single contest – marking the highest total by any player across the nation this season and ranking as the third-best performance in Blue Hens program history.
The remarkable individual achievement helped propel Delaware to a 19-16 victory over St. Bonaventure at Delaware Stadium, as the Fightin’ Blue Hens extended their current winning streak to four consecutive games.
With the victory, Delaware’s record improved to 5-7 overall and 3-2 in Atlantic 10 Conference play. Meanwhile, St. Bonaventure fell to 4-9 on the season and remains winless in A-10 action at 0-5.
Conte’s dominant performance at the faceoff X gave Delaware crucial possession advantages throughout the high-scoring affair, helping the Blue Hens maintain control against the visiting Bonnies.
Delaware transportation officials have temporarily shut down the on-ramp connecting Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to southbound Interstate 95 after a vehicle accident occurred in the area.
The Delaware Department of Transportation is advising drivers to seek alternative routes while crews work to clear the scene and assess any potential roadway damage.
No information has been released regarding the severity of the crash, number of vehicles involved, or potential injuries. Officials have not provided an estimated timeline for when the ramp will be reopened to normal traffic flow.
Motorists traveling in the area should expect delays and plan extra time for their commutes while this major highway access point remains unavailable.
Residents in New Castle County should prepare for minor coastal flooding tonight as tidal waters are expected to rise up to one foot above ground level in low-lying areas.
The National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory effective from 11 PM tonight through 3 AM Sunday morning. Areas near shorelines and tidal waterways are most at risk for flooding.
The flooding is expected to impact the most vulnerable roadways along tidal areas, with some partial or complete road closures possible. Drivers should avoid leaving vehicles in flood-prone locations and never attempt to drive through flood waters, which may be deeper than they appear.
“Minor tidal flooding often results in some road closures, usually affecting the most vulnerable roadways,” according to the weather service alert issued early Friday morning.
Residents can monitor water levels and flood impacts for local tide gauges by visiting the National Water Prediction Service website at water.noaa.gov.
The advisory is set to expire at 3 AM Sunday morning. Salem County in New Jersey is also under the same advisory.
TV Delmarva will continue monitoring conditions and provide updates as needed throughout the weekend.
Dense fog is creating hazardous driving conditions across multiple areas of Sussex County, prompting Delaware Department of Transportation officials to issue a safety advisory for motorists.
The foggy conditions are significantly reducing visibility throughout various locations in the county, making travel more dangerous for drivers on local roadways.
DelDOT is urging all drivers to exercise extra caution while navigating through the fog-affected areas. Officials recommend reducing speed and ensuring headlights are turned on to improve visibility for both the driver and other vehicles on the road.
The fog advisory remains in effect as conditions continue to impact travel throughout Sussex County. Motorists are encouraged to allow extra time for their commutes and maintain safe following distances while the weather conditions persist.
Former President Barack Obama made his inaugural visit with New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani this past Saturday at a childcare facility, where the two political figures shared storytime with preschool children and participated in musical activities.
The visit took place just over a week following Mamdani’s completion of his first 100 days as mayor. The democratic socialist leader has been working to establish relationships across party lines, including efforts to collaborate with Republican President Donald Trump.
Following their reading of “Alone and Together” to the young audience and leading the children in singing “The Wheels on the Bus,” neither Obama nor Mamdani answered reporters’ questions.
The former two-term president and Democratic Party leader has extended his availability as an advisor to the 34-year-old Mamdani, whose youthful energy, celebrity appeal, and progressive platform have distinguished him within Democratic circles.
Mamdani assumed his mayoral role in January following a campaign focused on addressing New York City’s affordability crisis, with plans to redirect government resources toward supporting the city’s financially struggling working families.
This encounter with Obama follows Mamdani’s previous White House visits with Trump in November and February, where they discussed matters impacting New York City residents.
However, tensions have emerged in the Trump-Mamdani relationship recently, with Trump posting on Truth Social Thursday that Mamdani was “DESTROYING New York” through his tax policies and warning of potential federal funding cuts for the city.
SALISBURY, Md. – Salisbury University’s nationally-ranked baseball squad delivered a dominant performance Saturday, crushing the Mary Washington Eagles 11-1 in a seven-inning contest that highlighted their Senior Day festivities.
The Sea Gulls, currently ranked 13th in the nation, put together what could be considered their most impressive all-around performance of the year at Donnie Williams Sea Gull Baseball Stadium. The decisive victory also provided a crucial conference win in Coast-to-Coast Athletic Conference (C2C) play.
The lopsided score reflected Salisbury’s complete control of the game from start to finish, as they honored their senior players with a memorable afternoon performance on their home field.
Delaware’s coastal communities are under a flood advisory issued by the National Weather Service’s Mount Holly, New Jersey office on Thursday afternoon.
The coastal flooding alert went into effect at 4:00 PM on April 18th and will remain active until 2:00 AM on April 19th.
Residents and visitors along Delaware’s coastline should prepare for potential flooding in low-lying areas during this timeframe. The advisory serves as a precautionary measure for areas prone to tidal flooding.
Weather officials recommend avoiding flooded roadways and staying informed about changing conditions throughout the advisory period.
Weather officials have issued a coastal flood advisory for Delaware’s coastal regions, warning residents of potential flooding conditions along the shore.
The National Weather Service office in Mount Holly, New Jersey announced the advisory Thursday afternoon at 4:00 PM, with the alert remaining active until 2:00 AM Friday morning.
Coastal communities should prepare for possible minor to moderate flooding during high tide cycles while the advisory remains in effect.
Residents in affected areas are advised to monitor local conditions and avoid driving through flooded roadways during the advisory period.
LONDON – Britain’s Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy expressed his backing for Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Saturday as controversy continues surrounding the selection of Peter Mandelson for the U.S. ambassador position.
The longtime Labour Party figure Mandelson received the ambassadorial appointment from Starmer but was later dismissed due to his connections with deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, creating a political crisis that has called the British leader’s decision-making into question.
On Friday, Starmer encountered fresh calls for his resignation after government officials revealed that security clearance procedures had advised against Mandelson’s appointment, though Foreign Office personnel overturned this guidance without notifying the prime minister.
Lammy, who oversaw the Foreign Office during this period and currently serves as deputy prime minister and justice secretary, expressed to the Guardian newspaper his bewilderment that Starmer remained uninformed about the original security assessment.
“I have absolutely no doubt at all, knowing the PM as I do, that had he known that Peter Mandelson had not passed the vetting, he would never, ever have appointed him ambassador,” Lammy told the newspaper.
These remarks precede a parliamentary address scheduled for Monday afternoon where Starmer has pledged to reveal complete details about the situation.
Although political adversaries have dismissed his account as unbelievable and demanded his resignation, prominent figures within his Labour Party – including potential successors – have refrained from publicly condemning him.
When the Guardian initially disclosed Mandelson’s security clearance failure on Thursday, his legal representative declined to offer any statement.
The Philadelphia Phillies have sidelined closer Jhoan Duran for at least 15 days after he suffered a left oblique strain, the team announced Saturday.
The Phillies made several roster adjustments following Duran’s injury, bringing up right-handed pitcher Seth Johnson and utility player Felix Reyes from their Triple-A affiliate in Lehigh Valley. Meanwhile, the organization sent utility man Otto Kemp back to the minors and cut ties with minor league outfielder Pedro Leon.
Duran’s placement on the injured list dates back to Wednesday. The 28-year-old reliever has posted impressive numbers this season for Philadelphia, recording a 1-1 record with a 1.35 ERA while notching five saves across seven outings. Throughout his five-year major league career split between Minnesota and Philadelphia, he has compiled a 2.41 ERA with 95 saves over 253 games.
Johnson, age 27, appeared in one game for the Phillies earlier this year and carries a 9.72 ERA across 12 total appearances (including one start) during his three seasons with Philadelphia.
Reyes, 25, will get his first taste of major league action after spending six seasons in Philadelphia’s farm system, where he hit .272 with 48 homers and 247 RBIs across 374 games. Kemp, who was sent down, managed just two hits in 20 at-bats over 10 games with the big league club this year.
The released Leon had been hitting .283 through 12 games at Lehigh Valley this season. The 27-year-old has brief major league experience, appearing in seven games with Houston in 2024.
MADRID – Three major nations announced Saturday their commitment to coordinate increased humanitarian assistance for Cuba, describing the situation there as a crisis stemming from U.S. economic sanctions against the island.
Brazil, Spain, and Mexico issued a collaborative declaration during a Barcelona summit, emphasizing their support for open communication that follows United Nations principles. The nations stressed that Cuban citizens should have the autonomy to shape their own destiny.
The announcement emerged from discussions held when Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez welcomed Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Mexican leader Claudia Scheinbaum to Barcelona. The gathering was part of a broader international conference focused on countering far-right political movements.
The University of Delaware baseball squad encountered another setback in their Conference USA series against Middle Tennessee State University, falling in the second contest of their weekend matchup on Friday, April 18th.
The loss marks the Blue Hens’ second straight defeat in the series, putting them in a challenging position as they prepare for the final game of their road trip to Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
Delaware will look to salvage the series finale and avoid a sweep when they take the field for their concluding matchup against the Blue Raiders.
The University of Delaware women’s tennis team’s impressive season came to an end Saturday afternoon in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, where they suffered a 4-0 defeat to Liberty University in the Conference USA Championship final.
The Blue Hens, who entered the tournament as the fourth seed, were unable to overcome the sixth-seeded Flames in the championship showdown. Delaware concluded their campaign with an outstanding 21-5 overall record, while Liberty improved to 16-9 with the victory.
The 21 victories achieved by the Fightin’ Blue Hens this season matches the program’s historic high for wins in a single year, marking a significant milestone despite the championship game setback.
Liberty’s triumph in the conference tournament final sends the Flames forward in postseason play, while Delaware’s exceptional season comes to a close with the program having reached new heights in terms of overall success.
Residents in New Castle County, Delaware, and Salem County, New Jersey, should prepare for minor coastal flooding tonight as the National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory effective from 11 PM tonight through 3 AM Sunday morning.
Up to one foot of water is expected to inundate low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways. The flooding will primarily impact the most vulnerable roads along tidal areas, with some partial or full road closures possible.
Officials are urging drivers to avoid parking vehicles in flood-prone locations and never attempt to drive through flood waters. “The water may be deeper than you think it is,” warns the Weather Service, noting that motorists could face danger and costly vehicle damage.
This minor tidal flooding event is expected to affect typical trouble spots where high tides regularly cause problems. Local authorities will monitor conditions throughout the night and may implement road closures as needed.
The advisory expires at 3 AM Sunday morning. Residents can check current water levels and flood information at the National Water Prediction Service website. Stay tuned to TV Delmarva for updates on road conditions and weather developments.
Residents in Kent County, Delaware should prepare for minor coastal flooding tonight as the National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory effective from 8 PM this evening through 2 AM Sunday morning.
Up to one foot of water is expected to rise above ground level in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways. The flooding will primarily impact the most vulnerable coastal and bayside roads, with some partial or full road closures possible throughout the overnight hours.
Officials are urging drivers to avoid parking vehicles in flood-prone areas and never attempt to drive through standing water. “The water may be deeper than you think,” warns the National Weather Service, noting that driving through flood waters puts both people and vehicles at risk of costly damage.
This minor tidal flooding event is considered routine for the area, but residents should still exercise caution, especially during late-night and early morning travel. The most susceptible roadways include those along inland tidal waterways and immediate coastal areas.
The advisory expires at 2 AM Sunday morning. For real-time water level information and flood impacts for local tide gauges, residents can visit the National Water Prediction Service online. Stay with TV Delmarva for continuing weather updates throughout the evening.
Residents and visitors along the Delaware beaches and Cape May County should prepare for minor coastal flooding tonight as the National Weather Service issued a Coastal Flood Advisory effective from 8 PM tonight through 2 AM Sunday morning.
Up to one foot of water inundation is expected in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways across Inland Sussex County, Delaware beaches, and Cape May County, including Atlantic coastal areas.
The flooding will primarily impact the most vulnerable roadways in coastal and bayside communities, with some partial or full road closures possible. Officials warn that while this is considered minor flooding, it can still create dangerous driving conditions.
Safety officials strongly advise against driving through flood waters, as the depth can be deceiving and may cause costly vehicle damage or put drivers at risk. Residents should also avoid parking in areas prone to tidal flooding.
The most susceptible areas include low-lying coastal roads and communities along inland tidal waterways. Motorists should plan alternate routes and allow extra travel time during the advisory period.
For the latest water level information and flood impacts for local tide gauges, residents can visit the National Water Prediction Service online. The advisory expires at 2 AM Sunday morning.
Thousands of supporters gathered in Madrid on Saturday to hear from Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, who turned down an opportunity to meet with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez during her multi-nation European visit.
The Nobel Peace Prize recipient spoke to crowds while Sánchez was conducting a separate gathering of progressive world leaders. Machado used the occasion to praise President Trump’s decision to remove Nicolás Maduro from power in January.
Machado had previously given her Nobel Peace Prize to Trump earlier this year as recognition for his Venezuela policies.
“What happened in the last few hours at the meeting (Sánchez) held in Barcelona with several leaders and political figures from different countries demonstrates why such a meeting was not advisable,” Machado told reporters Saturday.
During an earlier appearance, the opposition leader confirmed her intention to return to Venezuela but would not specify timing or methods, recognizing the difficulties such a return would present.
Her European journey has included meetings with top officials in France, Italy and the Netherlands. This tour occurs as Venezuela’s interim President Delcy Rodríguez continues serving beyond the original 90-day timeframe, while the United States has reduced certain sanctions against her administration.
Machado condemned Rodríguez’s leadership, characterizing it as representing “chaos, violence and terror,” and emphasized her commitment to establishing democratic elections in Venezuela. She expressed no regret about awarding her Nobel Prize to Trump, despite his administration’s reduced focus on her democracy movement.
The Venezuelan leader stated she maintains regular communication with Trump administration officials and supports Washington’s gradual approach to Venezuela following Maduro’s departure.
“There is one leader in the world, one head of state, who has risked the lives of his country’s citizens for the freedom of Venezuela. And that is Donald Trump,” Machado said, referring to the U.S. military operation in January.
The demonstration took place at Madrid’s Puerta del Sol, where Machado appeared alongside Isabel Díaz Ayuso, the conservative regional leader of Madrid who has been a vocal opponent of Sánchez and welcomed Machado earlier that day.
Spain hosts approximately 600,000 Venezuelans, representing the largest Venezuelan population outside the Western Hemisphere. Many relocated due to political oppression and violence, as well as economic collapse in their homeland. Most reside in Madrid.
Among those attending Saturday’s gathering was Grehlsy Peñuela, a 27-year-old Venezuelan living in Spain, who continues to support Machado and hopes for her eventual return to Caracas.
Peñuela carried photographs of two cousins she says remain imprisoned in Caracas as political detainees, and indicated she would only consider returning to Venezuela under specific circumstances.
“That the current government completely steps down,” she said.
Delaware travelers planning spring and summer getaways face mounting concerns about flight costs and availability as the ongoing Middle East conflict disrupts global oil supplies and sends jet fuel prices skyrocketing.
The International Energy Agency’s director has cautioned that European nations may face jet fuel shortages in the coming weeks, potentially forcing airlines serving Europe to drastically cut flight schedules. Jet fuel costs have more than doubled since late February, jumping from approximately $99 per barrel to peaks of $209 per barrel in early April, prompting many carriers to implement fuel surcharges and increase baggage fees.
The travel industry continues feeling the conflict’s effects, with Air Canada announcing Friday its decision to halt service to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport from June 1 through October 25 to reduce fuel expenses. Major carriers including United, Delta, Air France-KLM, SAS, Philippine Airlines, and Cathay Pacific have trimmed route schedules and either raised ticket prices or announced plans to do so if the war continues blocking oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.
“It’s very hard for the airlines to make predictions in this environment, so they’re going to be conservative, and that’s why it’s likely that their prices will remain elevated for some time until things really stabilize,” said Shye Gilad, a former airline captain who now teaches at Georgetown University’s business school.
Despite rising costs, Delaware travelers can still make strategic decisions to minimize the impact on their vacation budgets.
Travel industry professionals warn against delaying ticket purchases while waiting for the conflict to resolve, particularly as summer travel season approaches. The uncertainty makes the traditional wait-and-see booking strategy particularly risky this year.
“Presuming there is a lasting ceasefire — or better yet, peace agreement — it will take a few months for normal levels of jet fuel production and delivery to resume,” airline industry analyst Henry Harteveldt, president of Atmosphere Research Group, said.
Iran’s weekend decision to reverse its plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, combined with President Donald Trump’s commitment to maintaining the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports, demonstrates the volatile nature of oil supply prospects from the Persian Gulf region.
“My advice to travelers is this: If you find a flight whose schedule fits yours, with a fare you can afford, and on an airline you can at least tolerate, book it,” Harteveldt said. “But — and I cannot emphasize this enough —do not book a Basic Economy fare,” the cheapest but also the most restrictive airline ticket class.
Basic Economy tickets from most North American airlines offer no refunds or travel credits for cancellations made more than 24 hours after purchase, in addition to charging extra for checked luggage and seat selection. Standard Economy tickets provide greater flexibility despite the higher upfront cost, according to Harteveldt.
Purchasing refundable tickets may prove worthwhile since “if the prices start to dramatically change, you can cancel and rebook for the better price,” Gilad said.
Travel professionals suggest following established booking timelines as a starting point: international flights typically offer the best prices when booked two to five months ahead, while domestic trips are usually cheapest when reserved three to six weeks in advance.
Last-minute reservations and other traditionally expensive booking scenarios will likely become even more costly, Gilad noted.
“Remember, especially if you’re traveling on the major airlines, they’re going to have more ability to adjust fares. If you book too close to your travel date, you’re going to pay more,” he said. “The farther out you can book, the better.”
Travelers with flexible schedules can find significant savings by adjusting their plans. Moving departure or return dates by just a day or two, particularly avoiding peak weekends and holidays in favor of midweek travel, often results in substantial price differences.
Considering alternative destinations can also reduce costs. Flights from the U.S. to one European city may cost significantly less than to another, and Europe’s extensive budget airline and rail networks make it easy to reach multiple destinations from a single arrival point.
Flexible travelers can utilize tools like Skyscanner’s “Explore Everywhere” feature to identify less expensive destination options.
Expanding departure airport options beyond the nearest facility can yield meaningful savings. Major airport hubs typically provide more flight options and lower fares compared to smaller regional airports.
Sometimes booking a separate short flight or train connection to a major hub can unlock cheaper long-distance fares, such as traveling from Milwaukee instead of Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport.
Limiting luggage to carry-on items helps avoid the increased checked bag fees recently implemented by major U.S. carriers, including Delta, American, United, Southwest, and JetBlue.
When checking bags becomes necessary, planning ahead saves money since airlines typically charge higher fees for bags added closer to departure, especially within 24 hours of flight time.
While ticket prices climb, the number of airline points required for many flights hasn’t increased at the same rate, according to Adam Morvitz, CEO of points.me, a loyalty rewards redemption search platform.
Airlines still need to fill seats, Morvitz explained, and offering more award seats for fewer points helps accomplish this goal.
Travelers without sufficient points for complete round-trip tickets can still use rewards for one flight segment and preserve cash for other travel expenses.
Many people redeem points directly through credit card booking portals, where they typically hold about 1 cent value each, Morvitz noted. Transferring points to airline loyalty programs often provides significantly better value since most major credit card companies partner with multiple airlines.
For example, American Express points can transfer to Air France’s Flying Blue program, allowing travelers to use those points with partner carriers like Delta, even if they prefer not to fly Air France directly, Morvitz said.
“Points are a form of wealth, and consumers should recognize that those points increase spending power,” he said.
Those new to travel credit cards may find sign-up bonuses valuable enough to cover summer flights after meeting minimum spending requirements.
“Even if you were to travel the entire year, taking one trip per month, you would still earn more points simply by signing up for the card than actually sitting on a seat and flying,” Morvitz said.
Points accumulate through everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and gas, while some cards include benefits such as free or discounted checked bags.
President Donald Trump has issued an executive order directing federal agencies to accelerate their evaluation of psychedelic drugs as potential treatments for mental health disorders.
The directive, signed in the Oval Office on Saturday, specifically focuses on expediting reviews of psilocybin and ibogaine for therapeutic purposes. These substances have shown promise in treating various mental health conditions in recent research studies.
During the signing ceremony, Trump made a lighthearted comment about the substances, asking “Can I have some, please?” while endorsing the potential benefits of both psilocybin and ibogaine.
The executive order represents a significant shift in federal policy toward psychedelic research, potentially opening new avenues for mental health treatment options that have traditionally faced regulatory barriers.
This development could impact how quickly these alternative therapies become available to patients struggling with mental health disorders across the country.
The Chicago Cubs brought up right-handed pitcher Corbin Martin on Saturday to bolster their relief corps following Daniel Palencia’s move to the injured list on Friday.
The organization also shifted right-hander Cade Horton to the 60-day injured list to create space on their 60-man roster. Horton underwent Tommy John surgery on Thursday.
Palencia, 26, landed on the IL due to a strained left oblique muscle. The reliever had recorded one save while maintaining a spotless earned run average through his initial five appearances this season. He also contributed to Venezuela’s World Baseball Classic championship, posting three saves without surrendering a run across five tournament outings.
Martin, 30, joined the Cubs organization as a free agent in January following a season with the Baltimore Orioles where he compiled a 6.00 ERA in 17 relief outings. Throughout his major league career spanning 34 appearances (including 10 starts) with Houston (2019), Arizona (2021-22), and Baltimore, he holds a 2-5 record with a 6.54 ERA.
Horton’s procedure marks his second Tommy John surgery and is anticipated to keep him sidelined until approximately mid-2027. The 2022 first-round selection had posted a 1-0 record with a 2.45 ERA in two starts this season before the setback.
The National Hockey League has announced that its 2026 draft lottery will take place on May 5 at the NHL Network facilities in Secaucus, New Jersey.
League officials confirmed Saturday that the event will air simultaneously on ESPN, Sportsnet and TVA Sports, though broadcast times remain to be determined.
The selection process will start by determining the first overall pick, then proceed to reveal the second selection. Sixteen teams that failed to qualify for the upcoming Stanley Cup playoffs are eligible to participate in the lottery. When a team has traded away its first-round selection, the acquiring franchise receives that lottery position regardless of playoff status.
Leading the lottery odds are:
1. Vancouver Canucks, 18.5%
2. Chicago Blackhawks, 13.5%
3. New York Rangers, 11.5%
4. Calgary Flames, 9.5%
5. Toronto Maple Leafs (conditional trade to Boston Bruins), 8.5%
6. Seattle Kraken, 7.5%
7. Winnipeg Jets, 6.5%
8. Florida Panthers, 6.0%
9. San Jose Sharks, 5.0%
10. Nashville Predators, 3.5%
11. St. Louis Blues, 3.0%
12. New Jersey Devils, 2.5%
13. New York Islanders, 2.0%
14. Columbus Blue Jackets, 1.5%
15. St. Louis Blues (from Detroit Red Wings), 0.5%
16. Washington Capitals, 0.5%
League regulations limit teams from advancing more than 10 positions in the draft order, meaning only the top 11 teams listed can claim the number one selection.
Last year’s lottery winner was the New York Islanders, who jumped from the 10th position despite holding only a 3.5% probability. The Islanders used their top pick to select defenseman Matthew Schaefer from Erie in the Ontario Hockey League.
The 2026 draft’s opening round is scheduled for June 26 at 7 p.m. Eastern Time. Rounds two through seven will continue the following Saturday morning at 10 a.m. Eastern Time.
Two prospects generating buzz for the top overall selection are Penn State left wing Gavin McKenna and left wing Ivar Stenberg from Frolunda in the Swedish Hockey League.
According to a March 7, 2025 trade agreement between Toronto and Boston, the Maple Leafs retain their pick if it lands in the top five positions. Should that occur, Toronto would then transfer either their 2027 or 2028 first-round selection to the Bruins.
BUDAPEST – Final election results show Peter Magyar’s Tisza party has secured 141 parliamentary seats out of 199 total, strengthening what was already a commanding victory over longtime Hungarian leader Viktor Orban, election officials announced Saturday.
The centre-right Tisza party, whose name stands for Respect and Freedom, delivered a crushing defeat to Orban’s administration in Sunday’s voting, bringing an end to 16 years of conservative governance that had influenced similar political movements throughout Western nations.
Following the unexpected scale of Magyar’s triumph during record voter participation, Orban promptly acknowledged defeat. The outcome provides Magyar with the legislative power needed to reverse Orban’s controversial judicial and governmental changes.
“An unprecedented majority, an unprecedented mandate, and at the same time, responsibility,” Magyar said in a statement on the final result.
The dramatic political transformation becomes clear when comparing results to the previous election cycle. Orban’s Fidesz party, which captured 87 out of 106 individual district races in 2022, managed to win only 10 such contests this time and will hold just 52 legislative positions.
Magyar’s electoral success has sparked optimism in Hungarian financial markets, with investors hopeful for improved relationships with European Union leadership after years of tension during Orban’s tenure. The victory could also unlock billions in suspended EU funding that was withheld due to concerns about democratic institutions.
“While a successful unlocking of EU funds would support investment and lower sovereign risk premia, the impact on growth will materialise primarily over the medium term,” Capital Economics analyst Liam Peach said in a note.
“In the near term, the outlook remains shaped by external factors – notably the Iran conflict – and domestic fiscal policy.”
Initial vote tallies had shown Tisza winning 138 seats, already surpassing the two-thirds threshold Magyar required to reverse Orban’s constitutional modifications and address corruption concerns. The final tally increased to 141 after all ballots, including overseas and transferred votes, were processed.
Magyar has committed to implementing comprehensive anti-corruption measures following his scheduled inauguration on May 9 or 10, as part of broader efforts to restore EU funding and revitalize Hungary’s economy, which has experienced minimal growth over the past three years.
While Orban has consistently rejected corruption allegations and argued that Hungary faces no greater corruption issues than other European nations, he acknowledged in a Thursday online interview that extensive media coverage of wealth accumulation among Fidesz-connected business figures may have influenced his electoral loss. He declined to address whether those reports were accurate.
A traffic collision has forced the complete closure of southbound US Route 202 at Naamans Road, creating significant delays for evening commuters.
Delaware Department of Transportation officials report the roadway remains impassable in the southbound direction as emergency responders work at the crash site.
Drivers traveling through the area are advised to find alternative routes and allow extra time for their commute. No timeline has been provided for when the roadway will reopen to traffic.
This is a developing situation and motorists should check current traffic conditions before heading out.
Delaware transportation officials have temporarily shut down US Route 13 at Edgemoor Road following a motor vehicle accident.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports the roadway closure is in effect as emergency responders work at the crash scene. No details about injuries or the number of vehicles involved have been released at this time.
Motorists traveling through the area are being advised to find alternative routes until the roadway can be safely reopened. DelDOT has not provided an estimated time for when normal traffic flow will resume.
Northbound traffic on US Route 202 has come to a complete halt following a vehicle collision at Rocky Run Parkway, according to Delaware Department of Transportation officials.
The roadway closure is currently in effect as emergency responders work at the crash scene. DelDOT has not yet provided details about the severity of the accident or an estimated time for reopening the lanes.
Motorists traveling northbound on Route 202 should expect significant delays and consider alternate routes while crews clear the incident.
NEW YORK — In an unusual turn of events Saturday afternoon, Kansas City Royals skipper Matt Quatraro found himself kicked out of the game against the New York Yankees before starting pitcher Noah Cameron had even delivered his first throw of the contest.
The incident unfolded when Maikel Garcia found himself stuck at second base and came close to being picked off by Yankees pitcher Will Warren. Quatraro quickly sprinted from the dugout to confront umpires Nestor Ceja and Chris Guccione about the play.
While the discussion didn’t seem particularly intense at first, Quatraro received his walking papers the moment he began walking away from the officials. Bench coach Paul Hoover stepped in to lead the team for the remainder of the contest.
This marks Quatraro’s eighth time being thrown out of a game since taking the helm as Kansas City’s skipper in 2023.
The Royals entered Saturday’s matchup struggling badly, having dropped five straight games and suffering eight defeats in their last ten outings.
LIMA, Peru (AP) — Peru’s acting President José María Balcázar has postponed a major military procurement decision involving 24 fighter aircraft worth $3.5 billion, choosing to leave this significant purchase for the incoming administration following the country’s upcoming presidential runoff.
During a Friday evening broadcast on RPP radio, Balcázar revealed his decision to delay the acquisition. His caretaker administration, which started in February, will conclude in July when Peru’s presidential runoff takes place on June 7.
The acting president stated that the future government will possess “full legitimacy to decide” on whether to move forward with acquiring the F-16 Block 70 fighter aircraft from U.S. manufacturer Lockheed Martin.
“For us to commit such a large sum of money to the incoming government would be a poor practice for a transitional government,” Balcázar said.
Peru held its presidential election this past Sunday, but no candidate secured sufficient votes for an outright victory. Election officials are still tallying ballots to determine which two candidates will compete in the runoff as vote counting continues.
Former conservative lawmaker Keiko Fujimori secured her position in June’s runoff after finishing first among 35 presidential contenders. However, the close competition for second and third positions may require several weeks to resolve.
The victorious candidate from the runoff will assume the presidency on July 28.
Last year, under President Dina Boluarte’s administration, Peru announced plans to spend $3.5 billion on 24 military aircraft, financing the purchase through domestic loans of $2 billion in 2025 and $1.5 billion in 2026. Besides Lockheed Martin, Sweden’s Saab and France’s Dassault Aviation also submitted proposals.
Peru’s legislature selected Balcázar as the nation’s eighth president in ten years this past February, replacing another interim leader who was removed the day before due to corruption charges after serving just four months.
This pattern of presidential turnover in the Andean country demonstrates an ongoing political crisis stemming from leaders’ inability to secure legislative majorities. Legislators have repeatedly used a broad interpretation of constitutional language regarding “permanent moral incapacity” to remove presidents from office.
A flotation device worn by a Titanic survivor during the infamous 1912 disaster brought in more than $900,000 at a London auction house over the weekend.
The life jacket belonged to Laura Mabel Francatelli, who was traveling as a first-class passenger when the massive ocean liner struck an iceberg and sank. The vest bears signatures from Francatelli and fellow survivors who shared the same lifeboat during their escape.
Henry Aldridge & Son auctioneers in Devizes, western England, conducted the sale where an anonymous telephone bidder purchased the item for 670,000 pounds. The final price significantly surpassed the pre-auction estimate of 250,000 to 350,000 pounds.
During the same event, a lifeboat seat cushion from the disaster fetched 390,000 pounds and was acquired by operators of Titanic museums located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and Branson, Missouri. Both sale prices include standard auction house fees.
“These record-breaking prices illustrate the continuing interest in the Titanic story, and the respect for the passengers and crew whose stories are immortalized by these items of memorabilia,” stated auctioneer Andrew Aldridge.
The massive steamship, marketed as the world’s premier luxury vessel and considered “practically unsinkable,” collided with an iceberg near Newfoundland while traveling from England to New York on its inaugural journey. The vessel went down in the early hours of April 15, 1912, claiming approximately 1,500 lives from the 2,200 people aboard.
Public fascination with the maritime disaster continues more than a century later, partly due to the diverse mix of passengers ranging from wealthy elites to impoverished immigrants.
Francatelli was accompanying her boss, fashion designer Lucy Duff Gordon, along with Lucy’s spouse Cosmo Duff Gordon. The trio escaped in lifeboat No. 1, which departed with only 12 occupants despite being designed for 40 people. The boat’s crew faced criticism afterward for not attempting to rescue people struggling in the icy waters.
The highest amount ever paid for Titanic artifacts remains 1.56 million pounds, which was spent in 2024 for a gold pocket watch presented to the captain of RMS Carpathia, the vessel that rescued 700 survivors from the tragedy.
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump authorized a temporary extension of a disputed intelligence surveillance program on Saturday, keeping the controversial powers active until April 30th in a move that ensures continued congressional battles ahead.
The Senate approved the temporary measure on Friday during frantic last-minute negotiations to keep the surveillance authority from lapsing within days. Trump and fellow Republican leaders have advocated for the program’s continuation, arguing it serves essential national security purposes, while opponents raise concerns about potential violations of civil rights.
The legislative fight centers around Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which allows intelligence agencies including the CIA, National Security Agency, and FBI to gather and examine extensive overseas communications without obtaining warrants. This process can inadvertently capture communications involving U.S. citizens who communicate with foreign surveillance targets.
Renewing this surveillance authority has repeatedly sparked intense congressional disputes.
Trump and Republican leadership had sought a straightforward 18-month extension, while House Republicans proposed a five-year renewal with modifications designed to satisfy program critics on Thursday. When both proposals failed to gain sufficient support, congressional leaders shifted to the temporary solution.
Program opponents are demanding reforms, particularly requiring warrants before intelligence officials can examine emails, phone conversations, or text messages involving American citizens.
Trump approved the legislation on Saturday without issuing public statements. The surveillance authority was scheduled to lapse on Monday.
An 86-year-old French man has made history by delivering what appears to be the nation’s first formal family apology for ancestral involvement in the transatlantic slave trade, expressing hope that others will follow his lead.
Pierre Guillon de Prince’s forebears operated out of Nantes, which served as France’s primary hub for the slave trade, where they owned ships that forcibly carried approximately 4,500 enslaved Africans across the Atlantic and maintained plantation operations in Caribbean territories.
The elderly man emphasized that other French families need to acknowledge their historical connections to slavery, while urging the government to move beyond symbolic actions toward meaningful remedies, including financial reparations.
“Faced with the rise of racism in our society, I felt a responsibility not to let this past be erased,” Guillon de Prince explained, noting his desire to ensure his grandchildren understand their family’s history.
The apology took place at a ceremony in Nantes during the unveiling of an 18-meter ship mast replica, where he appeared alongside Dieudonné Boutrin, whose ancestors were enslaved on the Caribbean island of Martinique.
Both men collaborate through Coque Nomade-Fraternité, an organization committed to ending the silence surrounding slavery’s legacy, describing the memorial mast as a symbol of human compassion.
“Many families of descendants of slave traders don’t dare speak out for fear of reopening old wounds and anger,” Boutrin, 61, observed. “Pierre’s apology is a courageous act.”
Historical records show that between the 15th and 19th centuries, European vessels forcibly transported at least 12.5 million abducted Africans, with French ships accounting for an estimated 1.3 million victims.
This gesture mirrors comparable formal acknowledgments made by families in Britain and other nations, which typically include commitments to help address the damage caused by their ancestors’ actions.
While France officially classified transatlantic slavery as a crime against humanity in 2001, the country has never issued a formal governmental apology for its participation, unlike some other European nations.
President Emmanuel Macron has increased public access to colonial archives during his presidency and announced plans last year to create a commission examining France’s relationship with Haiti, though he avoided mentioning reparations.
International demands for reparations are intensifying globally, encompassing everything from official acknowledgments to monetary compensation, despite opposition from those who believe current institutions shouldn’t bear responsibility for historical wrongs.
Last month, France chose not to support a United Nations resolution led by African nations that labeled slavery as the “gravest crime against humanity” and demanded reparations.
STUTTGART, Germany – World number two Elena Rybakina dominated her semifinal match at the Stuttgart Open on Saturday, defeating Russian sixth seed Mirra Andreeva 7-5, 6-1 to advance to the championship match of the WTA 500 indoor clay court event.
The top-seeded Kazakhstani player will face Czech seventh seed Karolina Muchova in Sunday’s final after both players secured convincing semifinal victories.
Rybakina and Andreeva exchanged service games early in the first set until Rybakina seized control with a break to take a 4-2 advantage. The young Russian fought back to even the score at 4-4, but the 26-year-old Rybakina elevated her game when it mattered most to claim the opening set.
The second set belonged entirely to Rybakina, who dominated from start to finish, building a commanding 5-0 advantage before wrapping up the match in one hour and 17 minutes.
“First set, we were going pretty even,” Rybakina said. “I had some opportunities to go up but didn’t take them. But I’m happy that in these important moments, my serve worked and I stayed aggressive.”
“Then in the second set being up, I was more free to hit, to step in, to play even more aggressive. So I’m pretty happy with the performance. It was really solid. And I guess the three-hour match yesterday, it did help me today.”
Andreeva entered the tournament in excellent form, having captured the Linz Open title and stunning six-time Grand Slam winner Iga Swiatek and defending Stuttgart champion Jelena Ostapenko during her run.
This marks Rybakina’s third final appearance of the season. The former Wimbledon champion claimed the Australian Open title earlier this year and reached the final at Indian Wells.
In the other semifinal, Muchova advanced by defeating Ukrainian fourth seed Elina Svitolina 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 in a hard-fought three-set battle.
Muchova started strong, breaking Svitolina’s serve in the opening game and racing to a 3-0 lead. Though the Australian Open semifinalist fought back to narrow the gap, Muchova held on to take the first set.
The momentum shifted dramatically in the second set as Svitolina found her groove, jumping ahead 3-0 and extending her lead to 5-1 before evening the match.
The final set remained tight throughout until Muchova struck at the crucial moment, breaking serve at 4-4 before closing out the victory in two hours and 14 minutes.
KYIV, Ukraine — Ukrainian special forces fatally shot an armed assailant Saturday after he murdered six people and held hostages inside a Kyiv supermarket, according to government officials.
Interior Ministry chief Ihor Klymenko announced on social media that tactical units breached the store following unsuccessful attempts by negotiators to communicate with the shooter. The perpetrator died while fighting against his capture, Klymenko stated.
During a press briefing at the location, Klymenko explained that the assailant had murdered four civilians on the street before entering the grocery store where he killed a fifth victim.
Mayor Vitali Klitschko confirmed that a sixth casualty, a young woman, succumbed to her wounds at a medical facility.
An Associated Press journalist witnessed the deceased victims lying in the roadway under emergency coverings before being removed from the scene.
The shooter was born in 1968, Klymenko revealed, though he withheld additional identifying information. Police negotiators attempted communication with the attacker for approximately 40 minutes before launching their assault on the building, he reported.
Prior to the gunman’s death, a female police negotiator positioned behind an armored vehicle and wearing protective gear used amplification equipment to address the perpetrator, pleading: “the people are not to blame for this. Please, let them go and we will talk with you.”
“We tried to persuade him, knowing that there was likely a wounded person inside. We even offered to bring in tourniquets to stop the bleeding, but he did not respond,” Klymenko stated. “Consequently, the order was given to neutralize him.”
The Interior Ministry head, who was wearing protective gear, confirmed the suspect wielded a carbine rifle that was properly licensed and registered.
In December, the gunman “approached the licensing authorities to have the weapon test-fired as the permit was expiring. He provided a medical certificate. He had also submitted an application to renew his permit for the weapon. That is all we can say for now,” Klymenko explained.
He noted that investigators will examine which healthcare facility provided the medical documentation.
The violence occurred in Kyiv’s Holosiivskyi district, the mayor confirmed. Television coverage displayed officers seeking protection within the shopping center containing the supermarket as gunfire erupted. Civilians were evacuated from the area.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic — After more than two years without commercial air service, Haiti and the Dominican Republic will resume flights between their nations starting in May, both governments announced in a coordinated statement released Friday.
The agreement will restore connections linking three airports in the Dominican Republic with the airport serving Cap-Haïtien, Haiti’s northern coastal city.
Air service was suspended in March 2024 when Dominican authorities shut down the shared airspace, pointing to widespread violence and instability in Haiti that escalated after the 2021 killing of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse. During the closure, only emergency humanitarian aircraft were authorized to operate.
Both nations occupy the Caribbean island of Hispaniola, and their relationship had deteriorated significantly before the flight ban due to disputes over a controversial irrigation project. Haitian business interests had begun building a canal system drawing water from the Massacre River, which flows along the border between the two countries. Dominican officials strongly objected to the construction, claiming it would cause environmental damage and hurt farmers on both sides of the border.
The announcement came after diplomatic meetings that concentrated on immigration issues, border security measures, and commercial relationships between the neighboring countries.
“This measure seeks to facilitate mobility, boost economic ties and strengthen relations between both countries,” the joint statement said following discussions between Dominican Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez and his Haitian counterpart, Raina Forbin.
The diplomatic statement also expressed appreciation to international partners, especially the United Nations, for assisting Haitian officials in their work to restore stability and peace within the country.
Toronto Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic confirmed that starting point guard Immanuel Quickley will be unable to play in Saturday afternoon’s Eastern Conference playoff opener against the Cleveland Cavaliers due to a right hamstring strain.
The injury occurred during Toronto’s final regular season matchup against Brooklyn on Monday, forcing Quickley to leave the contest after playing only 17 minutes. Medical imaging was conducted following the game to assess the extent of the injury.
The 26-year-old guard had a strong regular season, posting averages of 16.4 points, 5.9 assists and 4.0 rebounds across 70 games, starting in every contest for the Raptors.
Throughout his NBA career spanning 394 games with both New York and Toronto, Quickley has maintained averages of 14.4 points, 3.5 rebounds and 4.1 assists, making 168 starts along the way.
Selected 25th overall in the 2020 NBA Draft, Quickley began his professional career with the Knicks, where he played for more than two seasons. Toronto acquired him on December 30, 2023, in a trade that sent Quickley, guard R.J. Barrett and a 2024 second-round draft selection to the Raptors in exchange for forward OG Anunoby, center Precious Achiuwa and guard Malachi Flynn going to New York.
Golf superstar Tiger Woods is showing positive signs of improvement during an intensive residential treatment program following his driving under the influence arrest earlier this year, according to a new report from the Daily Mail.
Sources close to the situation indicate Woods is working with medical professionals to manage his chronic pain issues through non-addictive alternatives to opioid medications. “He’s got a pain management doctor who is helping him deal with his body pain without addictive opioids,” an insider revealed to the publication. “He calls or Zooms a small number of people.”
The 50-year-old golfer maintains regular contact with a select group including his partner Vanessa Trump, his children Sam and Charlie, and Mark Steinberg, who has served as his representative since 1998.
According to the Daily Mail’s sources, Woods is currently enrolled in a 90-day inpatient facility located in Switzerland.
The treatment comes after a vehicle accident on March 27 near Woods’ Jupiter Island, Florida residence. Law enforcement arrested him on suspicion of impaired driving and refusing to provide a urine sample after his Land Rover struck the rear of a truck and overturned. Woods escaped physical injury and has entered a not guilty plea to the charges.
Officials determined that prescription medication, rather than alcohol, caused the impairment. Police records show Woods possessed two hydrocodone tablets at the time of his arrest.
“He’s responding well to treatment, and Vanessa is very happy with what she’s hearing,” a friend of Trump shared with the outlet.
The crash occurred on the same morning that golf fans were speculating about Woods’ potential participation in the Masters Tournament. The golf icon hasn’t competed on the PGA Tour since The Open Championship in 2024, where he failed to make the cut due to physical ailments. He suffered a ruptured left Achilles tendon during spring 2025 and required lumbar disk replacement surgery last October.
This incident marks Woods’ second serious vehicle accident in recent years. On February 23, 2021, investigators said Woods was driving at excessive speed when he crashed near Los Angeles, resulting in severe injuries to his right leg and ankle that necessitated multiple surgical procedures.
In a public statement released on March 31, Woods emphasized his commitment to prioritizing his physical and mental health over his golf career.
“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” Woods’ statement read. “I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health. This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery.
“I’m committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger and more focused place, both personally and professionally. I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time.”
Japan’s currency could face mounting downward pressure if financial markets perceive the country’s central bank as moving too cautiously against inflation threats, according to Asian Development Bank President Masato Kanda.
Speaking to reporters on Friday during his Washington visit, Kanda explained that while investors typically flock to the dollar during global uncertainty partly because America exports oil, the yen struggles to recover even when those positions reverse.
“The biggest reason is interest rate differentials (between the U.S. and Japan). With markets particularly focusing on what the U.S. Federal Reserve could do, Japan’s currency will be left behind if many people think the BOJ will be behind the curve” in addressing inflationary risks, he said.
The former top Japanese currency official noted that investor concerns about Japan’s fiscal health could also trigger yen selling. Kanda made these remarks while attending International Monetary Fund and World Bank Group meetings this week.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who supports increased government spending, has implemented fuel price subsidies and promised continued economic stimulus measures.
However, these policies face criticism for potentially worsening Japan’s massive government debt, which already equals twice the nation’s economic output – the highest debt-to-GDP ratio among developed nations.
Though Japan isn’t alone in subsidizing fuel costs, Kanda emphasized such programs should remain focused and limited to prevent market distortions.
“Price fluctuations are instruments that help society adapt to new norms. In general, it’s inappropriate to switch them off and hamper changes in public behavior,” he said.
Rather than broad subsidies, Kanda recommended nations invest in energy efficiency improvements, expand oil stockpiles, and diversify their energy sources.
The dollar fell to seven-week lows Friday after Iran announced the Strait of Hormuz remained open, suggesting potential Middle East conflict resolution.
While the dollar also declined against the yen, Japan’s currency stayed close to the 160-per-dollar level that previously triggered government intervention. Friday’s rate stood around 158.61 yen per dollar.
Japan’s central bank has maintained low rates despite nearly four years of inflation near its target, concerned about damaging the fragile economy even as import costs from the weak yen and wage increases fuel price pressures.
Kanda, who served as Japan’s chief currency official until July 2024, earned the nickname “Mr. Yen” for his record-setting foreign exchange interventions to combat the currency’s steep decline.
Golden State’s WNBA franchise has secured veteran guard Tiffany Hayes for another season, announcing the contract extension on Saturday. Financial details of the one-year agreement were not revealed.
The 36-year-old Hayes contributed 11.7 points per game along with 3.8 rebounds and 3.0 assists across 26 appearances during Golden State’s inaugural 2025 campaign, starting in 24 of those contests.
General manager Ohemaa Nyanin praised Hayes’ contributions in an official statement, saying: “Tip helped lay the foundation on and off the court for this team, and that’s not something you take for granted. She’s an experienced leader and veteran player who showed up for the Bay. Being able to welcome Tip back to her second home is truly special.”
Hayes brings impressive credentials to the Valkyries, having earned All-Star recognition with Atlanta in 2017 and claiming the WNBA Sixth Player of the Year award with Las Vegas in 2024. Throughout her professional career spanning 376 games with 303 starts, she has maintained averages of 13.1 points, 3.3 rebounds and 2.4 assists while playing for Atlanta (2012-19, 2021-22), Connecticut (2023), Las Vegas (2024) and now Golden State.
Delaware State Police have taken a 45-year-old Dover resident into custody after he allegedly attacked two people with a weapon and pepper spray behind a local hotel Thursday evening.
Authorities say Joseph Chapler confronted a man and woman who were walking on a pathway behind the Microtel on East Lebanon Road around 10:20 p.m. on April 16, 2026. According to police reports, Chapler made threats against both victims, brandished a firearm in their direction, and used pepper spray on the female victim before fleeing the scene.
The two victims escaped to safety and contacted emergency services. Medical personnel evaluated the woman who was pepper-sprayed, though she declined further treatment at the scene.
Investigators used various methods to identify Chapler as the perpetrator and secured an arrest warrant. He was taken into custody the following day on April 17th and transported to Troop 3 headquarters for processing.
Following his arraignment at Justice of the Peace Court 2, Chapler was ordered held at Sussex Correctional Institution with bail set at $94,001 cash.
The charges against Chapler include:
Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
Assault 2nd Degree (Felony) – 2 counts
Aggravated Menacing (Felony) – 2 counts
Terroristic Threatening – 2 counts
Criminal Trespass 3rd Degree
Crime victims and witnesses seeking support can contact the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit and Delaware Victim Center, which provides assistance around the clock via their toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). Support is also available by emailing [email protected].
Maritime traffic through the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz continues to operate at severely reduced levels, with vessel movement dropping to single digits despite the recent ceasefire brokered by President Donald Trump and accepted by Israel.
According to Noam Raydan, a senior fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, current data reveals that shipping activity through the waterway remains “still very weak” with “at least five to six vessels” moving in both directions. This represents a significant decline from earlier in April, when vessel counts reached double digits before current restrictions took effect. “We were still seeing around between like 10 and 15 vessels,” Raydan explained. “But now it’s back down to single digit.”
The expert emphasized that the reduced numbers only tell part of the story, noting that remaining activity doesn’t represent typical maritime operations. “This is not normal flow,” she stated. “We’re not seeing a kind of healthy movement of ships, non-Iranian vessels.”
This maritime crisis has emerged as political leaders debate long-term solutions. Just days before the ceasefire announcement, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu renewed discussions about redirecting Gulf oil exports toward Mediterranean routes, reviving proposals that have remained stalled for years. Meanwhile, President Trump had concentrated on immediate reopening efforts and establishing deadlines for further action.
Current conditions at sea reveal the ongoing severity of the situation. Raydan described observing unusual vessel behavior, stating: “At least one ship we saw making a U-turn in the Gulf of Oman and returning back to the Strait of Hormuz,” which demonstrates “some effectiveness to the blockade.” However, she cautioned against drawing definitive conclusions, explaining: “As long as we are dealing with these dark activities, it is really difficult to give a full assessment.”
The uncertainty extends throughout maritime operations in the region. Some Iranian-linked vessels continue entering the Persian Gulf from areas near the United Arab Emirates and Oman, while “some ships are turning off their AIS” (Automatic Identification System). Raydan also noted at least one vessel that stopped transmitting signals in the Gulf of Oman and hasn’t resumed communication.
Rather than complete closure or reopening, the situation presents complex operational challenges. “You need to look at case by case,” Raydan explained. “You cannot just say, yes, it’s working. No, it’s not working. It doesn’t work like that.”
Iranian authorities aren’t characterizing these conditions as temporary measures. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has referenced what they term a “new Persian Gulf order” and indicated the strait won’t return to previous operational status. This messaging aligns with observable traffic patterns showing limited resumed movement under fundamentally altered conditions.
For shipping companies, these challenges create immediate operational problems. Raydan referenced comments from a Western European shipping firm whose vessels remain immobilized due to persistent uncertainty about risk levels.
“It’s very unclear to them what the security situation is, what the security guarantees are,” she said. “Will Iran attack? What about the mines?” While acknowledging she lacks concrete mine data and stressing that reports don’t constitute confirmed operational intelligence, Raydan noted that uncertainty alone prevents normal operations. “The operational environment for the shipping industry” continues to be “very volatile,” she said. “There are risks. They need to take them into consideration.”
This uncertainty translates into widespread immobilization. “We’re talking about hundreds of ships, thousands of seafarers,” she said. “They’re just stuck in the Persian Gulf.” Vessels face stark choices: “You wouldn’t expect ships to just decide to sail without coordinating with Iran,” she explained. “Either they coordinate, they work with Iran, meaning reach out to Iran, or probably they might be forced to pay, or they just don’t leave.”
These conditions raise questions about potential alternatives to the Strait of Hormuz. Prof. Eyal Zisser, vice rector of Tel Aviv University and scholar of Syrian, Lebanese, and broader Arab politics, told The Media Line that renewed interest in alternatives reflects genuine shifts in Gulf state perspectives, though not in their practical limitations.
“First of all, we need to wait and see what will be the end, the point where the war will be ended,” he said. “But clearly, Iran became a source of threat. I mean, it was well known, but this time it was materialized.” This represents the fundamental change he identifies.
The threat has evolved from theoretical possibility to present reality, making alternative route exploration inevitable. “I think they will have to find alternatives,” he said. “And there are alternatives, and they will start, but it takes time.”
When asked about the feasibility of current proposals, Zisser provided a direct assessment: “It will take years.” He added a crucial caveat that challenges much public discussion: “And still the Iranians can hit those installations. So, it’s not very easy.”
Vita Avrahamov, a researcher at the Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security specializing in geopolitics, economics, and energy issues, provided quantitative analysis supporting these concerns. “There is no immediate solution that can fully replace the energy exports through the Strait of Hormuz,” she told The Media Line.
Her calculations show the strait typically handles approximately 20 million barrels of oil daily, while existing alternatives can manage only 3.5 to 5.5 million barrels per day, representing roughly 17 to 27 percent of that capacity.
“These options are viable as strategic diversification, but not as a full bypass solution,” she explained. Avrahamov outlined three primary alternative directions. The Red Sea route through Saudi infrastructure represents “the most immediately viable” option, though still limited. “Saudi Arabia’s exports through the Red Sea … is only a partial solution and cannot fully replace exports through the Strait of Hormuz,” she said, citing constraints including “limited loading capacity available at the Yanbu export terminal.”
Mediterranean routes, including potential connections through Israel or revived Iraq-Turkey pathways toward Ceyhan or Haifa, “offer shorter access to European markets but face substantial geopolitical barriers.” Routes toward Oman and the Arabian Sea are “politically more neutral and strategically attractive” but would require massive new investments in pipelines, ports, logistics networks, and secure transit arrangements. Her conclusion: “none currently offers a comprehensive or politically frictionless alternative to Hormuz.”
Raydan offered an even more definitive assessment: “Nothing can substitute the Strait of Hormuz.” While acknowledging existing contingency plans, including “pipelines like the one in Saudi Arabia, the east-west pipeline to the Red Sea, which has definitely been leveraged in order to push volumes and bypass the Strait of Hormuz” and noting that “UAE also has a pipeline,” she challenged how these options are presented in public discourse.
“Let’s be honest,” she said. “We cannot replace, these pipelines cannot replace the flows out of the Strait of Hormuz.”
She quantified the scale of what’s at stake: “We’re talking about an average loading of some 20 million barrels per day,” referring to the January to early March period before current conflicts. “We need to be realistic here,” she said. “You can have contingency plans like pipelines, but let’s not pretend.”
Her frustration with current reporting became evident: “I’ve been seeing a lot of reports about it, that Strait of Hormuz can be substituted and that land routes can substitute sea lanes. It doesn’t work like that.”
This analysis provides important context for political discussions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. According to Raydan, the core issue is being mischaracterized when quickly transformed into infrastructure debates. “It’s more an issue of maritime security,” she emphasized, describing this as “a key topic that requires the full focus right now, maritime security, the principle of freedom of navigation,” which will remain “a key subject in the region for years to come.”
Zisser offered similar perspective when challenging recent political statements: “Sometimes these statements do not have anything to do with reality.” Later, when asked what the public might be overlooking, he was more direct: “Sometimes… statements by politicians are more wishful thinking than has to do with reality.”
Avrahamov framed it in technical terms but reached comparable conclusions. Large-scale alternatives require “substantial capital investment, long development timelines, and credible security guarantees,” with feasibility remaining limited by “enduring geopolitical fragmentation.”
The immediate reality isn’t that new networks stand ready to replace Hormuz operations. Instead, the route that continues handling regional oil exports operates under degraded, highly uncertain conditions, while frequently cited public alternatives remain either partial, politically challenging, or years from implementation.
While the ceasefire has reduced tensions, it hasn’t resolved operational conditions in the strait. Raydan’s assessment remains most accurate: traffic is “still very weak,” non-Iranian vessel movement isn’t healthy, ships remain stranded, and the entire situation can’t be resolved through pipeline rhetoric. For now, Hormuz continues as the primary system in use—just a system operating under significant stress. As Raydan concluded: “Nothing can substitute the Strait of Hormuz.”
New York Mets designated hitter and first baseman Jorge Polanco has been sidelined with a right wrist contusion, landing him on the 10-day injured list as of Saturday.
The team made the roster move retroactive to Wednesday for Polanco, who has also been battling left Achilles inflammation since the season began.
Polanco’s wrist problem became apparent following his poor performance in Tuesday’s 2-1 defeat to the Los Angeles Dodgers on the road, where he failed to record a hit in four at-bats and struck out twice. Through 14 games this season, the veteran is struggling with a .179 batting average, managing just one home run and two RBIs.
The 32-year-old infielder joined the Mets this offseason on a two-year deal worth $40 million. Throughout his career, the former All-Star has compiled a .262 batting average with 155 home runs and 572 RBIs across 1,102 games while playing for the Minnesota Twins from 2014-2023, the Seattle Mariners in 2024-25, and now the Mets.
To fill the roster spot, New York brought up catcher Hayden Senger from their Triple-A affiliate in Syracuse.
The 29-year-old Senger got his first taste of major league action with the Mets last season, posting a .181 batting average with four RBIs over 33 games.
The National Football League has confirmed it will not conduct an investigation into New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel following the emergence of photographs showing him with sports reporter Diana Russini, according to a league spokesperson speaking with ESPN.
Under the NFL’s personal conduct policy, players, coaching staff, and executives must refrain from “conduct detrimental to the integrity of and public confidence in the National Football League.”
The controversial images were published by the New York Post’s Page Six section on April 8, showing Vrabel and Russini in intimate poses including holding hands and embracing at an adults-only resort in Sedona, Arizona. The timing coincided with the league’s annual meetings held in Phoenix from March 29 through April 1.
Both Vrabel, age 50, and Russini, age 43, are currently married to other people. When contacted by the Post, Vrabel characterized the photographs as “completely innocent,” while Russini argued the images were taken out of context and failed to capture other group members who were present during their gathering.
When ESPN reached out for their Friday story, neither Vrabel nor Russini offered additional statements.
This week, Russini stepped down from her role as a senior NFL correspondent at The Athletic on Tuesday while the publication conducted an internal review of her professional relationship with Vrabel.
The Patriots organization has not responded to ESPN’s inquiry about whether the team plans to conduct its own review of the matter.
Vrabel assumed the head coaching position with the Patriots – his former team as a player – prior to the 2025 season and successfully guided New England to Super Bowl LX, where they fell to the Seattle Seahawks by a score of 29-13.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has launched a crucial diplomatic mission to the Middle East as his nation emerges as a potential mediator between the United States and Iran.
Sharif began his three-day journey to Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey on Wednesday, traveling with a high-level delegation that includes Field Marshal Asim Munir and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar. The presence of such senior officials underscores the significance of this diplomatic tour.
The timing of this regional visit is particularly noteworthy, as President Donald Trump recently suggested that US-Iran negotiations could take place in Pakistan. However, with Sharif’s tour scheduled to end on April 18, any potential discussions between Washington and Tehran would need to wait until after his return.
According to sources in Islamabad speaking to The Media Line, the Pakistani leader is updating regional allies on confidential details regarding a US-Iran ceasefire arrangement. This coordinated effort reportedly has Washington’s full knowledge and backing, establishing Pakistan as a crucial go-between for the two adversaries.
The three nations Sharif is visiting – Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey – have reportedly provided important support for Pakistan’s mediation efforts between the longtime rivals.
Arab News quoted an unnamed American official stating that “Future talks are under discussion, but nothing has been scheduled at this time.” Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance emphasized during a Turning Point USA gathering at the University of Georgia that Trump is not interested in a limited agreement with Iran, but instead wants a comprehensive deal.
When questioned about potential US-Iran negotiations, Vance outlined Trump’s firm stance that Iran must be prevented from acquiring nuclear weapons, noting that current discussions center on achieving this goal.
Vance indicated that if Iran agrees to halt nuclear weapons development, America would assist the country in achieving economic growth and prosperity.
The Vice President revealed that Trump had directed him to travel to Pakistan for good-faith discussions with Iran. However, Vance acknowledged the deep mistrust between Washington and Tehran, emphasizing that such issues cannot be resolved quickly. He noted that the current ceasefire remains intact and expressed optimism about the trajectory of developments.
Syrian security forces have successfully broken up an ISIS-affiliated terror cell operating in the eastern region near Aleppo, marking another chapter in the country’s ongoing battle against extremist organizations.
An official from Syria’s Interior Ministry, speaking to The Media Line on condition of anonymity, revealed that the takedown came after extensive surveillance and intelligence work. Security personnel monitored the cell members’ activities before launching coordinated strikes that led to multiple arrests. During the confrontation, authorities also killed one key member of the terrorist group.
The intelligence-driven approach proved crucial in uncovering the cell’s plans. Initial questioning revealed the group had been preparing strikes against government security forces and military installations as part of ISIS’s broader strategy to reactivate dormant cells throughout Syria. The raids also uncovered a cache of weapons and explosives, underscoring the serious threat the organization continues to pose.
The anonymous source explained that this particular cell had connections to previous attacks on security patrols in various regions. This discovery prompted authorities to expand their investigation, leading to additional arrests before finally capturing the remaining network members and completely shutting down their operations.
These latest developments occur as experts warn of renewed ISIS activity across Syria, especially in territories where the group previously held substantial control. Although ISIS has faced major defeats in recent years, the organization still depends on hidden cells to conduct smaller-scale attacks designed to destabilize regional security.
Syrian officials have pledged to maintain their preventive strikes against ISIS operatives. They have previously conducted broad security sweeps across several provinces, leading to the detention of dozens of suspected ISIS members and the confiscation of weapons and explosive materials.
Security analysts note that these successful missions demonstrate better cooperation between different agencies and improved intelligence-gathering methods. Nevertheless, they warn that the ISIS threat remains active, pointing out that complicated security conditions in some areas could enable the group to rebuild.
This increased security activity connects to wider developments throughout Syria, where intersecting local and regional factors continue to influence the nation’s stability. Consequently, the campaign against extremist organizations remains an ongoing struggle requiring persistent, comprehensive efforts.
Within this context, the recent security operations mark an important advance in confronting ISIS. However, they also underscore that the fight against the organization is nowhere near finished and that preserving stability will demand continued security and intelligence work, along with addressing the root causes that allow armed groups to resurface.
As officials work to strengthen security oversight, the primary challenge remains stopping ISIS from rebuilding its capacity for major operations. Success will require ongoing preventive measures, enhanced security partnerships, and careful surveillance of suspicious activity in vulnerable areas.
The elimination of the ISIS cell east of Aleppo demonstrates the continuing battle against the group and reinforces that completely destroying the organization will require sustained commitment on both security and political levels.
The National Football League has chosen not to launch an investigation into New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel following a controversy involving published photographs of him with former Athletic sports reporter Dianna Russini at an Arizona resort.
League spokesperson Brian McCarthy told The Associated Press on Saturday that the NFL will not pursue an investigation into the incident. The New England Patriots organization has not yet responded to inquiries about whether they plan to conduct their own internal review of Vrabel’s conduct.
Last week, The New York Post released photographs showing Vrabel and Russini together at a Sedona hotel, reportedly captured prior to the NFL’s annual meetings that commenced in Phoenix on March 29.
According to the NFL’s personal conduct policy: “Everyone who is part of the league must refrain from ‘conduct detrimental to the integrity of and public confidence in’ the NFL.”
Vrabel, a three-time Super Bowl champion during his playing career with New England, is entering his second year leading the Patriots. He earned AP NFL Coach of the Year honors after guiding the team to a 14-3 record last season, which concluded with a 29-13 Super Bowl defeat to Seattle. Vrabel previously received the same coaching award while with Tennessee in 2021.
Following the publication of the images, both Vrabel and Russini, who are each married, issued statements to the Post minimizing the significance of what the photographs showed.
Russini became part of The Athletic’s team in 2023 following almost ten years with ESPN, where she served in multiple capacities including “SportsCenter” host, NFL analyst and insider reporter. At The Athletic, she produced a podcast and appeared on the platform’s video content.
In her resignation statement, Russini wrote: “I have covered the NFL with professionalism and dedication throughout my career, and I stand behind every story I have ever published.”
LONDON — Counterterrorism investigators in Britain are examining an attempted fire attack in London that targeted a building with ties to the Jewish community, marking the latest in a series of similar incidents across the capital.
Authorities announced Saturday they are not yet connecting this incident to other recent attacks on Jewish charity vehicles and an Iranian media outlet.
The Metropolitan Police stated that while investigators are not classifying these events as terrorism, Counter Terrorism Policing London has taken charge of the probe “due to the similarities of each attack.”
According to police reports, a suspect was observed Friday evening placing a bag with three bottles of liquid outside a structure that had previously served the Jewish community. The individual tried to ignite the materials, but the attempt was unsuccessful before he escaped the scene. Authorities have not made any arrests.
The Friday evening incident occurred in Hendon, located near Golders Green, where four vehicles belonging to a Jewish charity were set ablaze on March 23. Four individuals face charges in connection with that attack.
Investigators are also examining an attempted arson at a synagogue in northwest London on Wednesday. That same day, authorities report an “ignited container” was hurled into the offices of a Persian media company in Wembley, another northwest London neighborhood. Two adult men and one teenage boy have been charged with arson in that case.
Fortunately, no injuries have occurred in any of these incidents.
Investigators are exploring whether these attacks may be connected to Iran. British officials have accused Iran of employing criminal networks to carry out attacks across Europe, specifically targeting opposition media organizations and Jewish communities. Britain’s MI5 domestic intelligence agency reports disrupting more than 20 “potentially lethal” plots backed by Iran in the year leading up to October.
LOS ANGELES — California authorities have handed down sentences to three individuals involved in an elaborate insurance fraud scheme that featured a person wearing a bear costume to simulate wildlife damage to expensive vehicles.
According to the California Insurance Department, the trio orchestrated fake bear attacks on a Rolls-Royce and two Mercedes vehicles during 2024, then filed false insurance claims attempting to collect almost $142,000. Officials dubbed the investigation “Operation Bear Claw.”
Two men from the Los Angeles region and one woman entered no contest pleas to felony insurance fraud charges and received sentences including a weekend incarceration program and subsequent probation, the department announced Thursday. Two defendants must pay more than $50,000 in restitution.
A fourth suspect is scheduled for a court appearance in September.
Investigators say the group submitted multiple videos recorded in the San Bernardino Mountains showing what appeared to be a bear moving around inside the vehicles as evidence for their damage claims. Department photographs reveal apparent claw marks on vehicle seats and doors.
When a California Department of Fish and Wildlife biologist examined the video evidence, the expert determined it was “clearly a human in a bear suit,” according to the insurance department.
During a search of the suspects’ residence under warrant, investigators discovered the bear costume, the department reported.
Genuine bear encounters have become increasingly common throughout California, from Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevada mountains to suburban areas near Los Angeles, where the animals have been documented entering homes, accessing refrigerators, and using residential pools and spas.
Authorities in Ukraine’s capital are conducting an active manhunt after a gunman killed multiple people and wounded others during a shooting spree on Saturday.
Kiev Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported that law enforcement officers are working to capture the suspect, who has taken refuge inside a grocery store in the city’s Holosiivskyi neighborhood.
“A special operation is proceeding to detain the man who started the shooting and is currently inside a supermarket,” Klitschko wrote in a message posted to the social media platform Telegram.
The mayor added that gunfire continued even after the suspect entered the store. “According to preliminary information, shots are also being fired in the supermarket. As a result of the shooting, there are injured and several dead,” he stated.
The incident occurred on April 18th, with authorities still working to apprehend the armed individual as the situation develops.
Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr plans to take some time to reflect on his career before engaging in discussions about his future with the organization.
The 60-year-old coach has led the Warriors to four NBA titles, with their most recent championship coming in 2022. However, Friday evening’s play-in tournament defeat against the Phoenix Suns represented the second occasion in three seasons that Golden State has missed playoff qualification.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen,” Kerr stated following the 111-96 defeat in Phoenix. “I still love coaching, but I get it. These jobs all have an expiration date. There is a run that happens, and when the run ends, sometimes it’s time for new blood and new ideas.”
Currently in his contract’s final year, Kerr has served as Golden State’s head coach since the 2014-15 campaign. Throughout his tenure, he has achieved a 604-353 record (.631 winning percentage) during a championship era that also featured titles in 2015, 2017, and 2018.
The Warriors have been unable to progress beyond the second playoff round since capturing their 2022 championship.
“If (my time is done), then I will be nothing but grateful for the most amazing opportunity any person could have to coach this franchise in front of our fans and to coach Steph Curry, (Draymond Green), the whole group,” Kerr explained. “It may still go on. It may not. I don’t know at this point. But we all need to step away a little bit and then reconvene.”
The Warriors faced significant challenges this season due to player age and injuries, including Jimmy Butler III suffering a torn right ACL in January and 38-year-old star Stephen Curry managing a knee problem that limited him to just 43 games.
During the final moments of Friday’s season-concluding loss, Kerr removed both Curry and Green from the game. These players have been franchise cornerstones since 2009-10 and 2012-13, respectively.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen next, but I love you guys to death. Thank you,” Kerr revealed he told them during their postgame embrace.
Curry still has one year and $62.6 million remaining on his current deal and has expressed willingness to discuss a contract extension during the upcoming offseason. Meanwhile, 36-year-old Green holds a $27.7 million player option for next season and indicated after the game that retirement is not in his plans.
Should Kerr decide to continue coaching next season, he made clear it would be alongside Curry and the Warriors organization.
“That’s part of the equation,” he noted. “I don’t want to walk away from Steph. I’m definitely not going and coaching somewhere else next year in the NBA. I would never walk away from Steph. But all this stuff has to be aligned and right. Those are all discussions that will be had.”
Regardless of Kerr’s ultimate decision, Curry emphasized that he simply wants the former NBA Coach of the Year to find fulfillment in whatever path he chooses.
“I want him to be excited for the job,” Curry commented. “I want him to believe he’s the right guy for the job. I want him to have an opportunity to enjoy what he does, whatever that means for him. Everybody’s plan is their own. He knows how I feel about him.”
The Biden administration has barred a senior Nicaraguan government official from entering the United States due to accusations of human rights violations, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Saturday.
The visa restrictions target Luis Roberto Cañas Novoa, who serves as Nicaragua’s vice-minister of the interior. The sanctions prevent Cañas Novoa from obtaining entry to the United States.
Rubio’s announcement on Saturday detailed the administration’s decision to block the official’s travel privileges based on his alleged participation in human rights abuses.
Motorists traveling along Route 1 should expect lane restrictions near the Rehoboth Boulevard overpass as construction work continues in the area.
The Delaware Department of Transportation has announced that both the right and left shoulder lanes on Coastal Highway are currently closed underneath the Rehoboth Boulevard bridge due to ongoing construction activities.
According to DelDOT officials, the shoulder closures will remain in place until May 22nd. Drivers are advised to exercise caution when traveling through the work zone and allow extra time for their commute.
The construction work is taking place directly beneath the overpass structure, necessitating the temporary elimination of shoulder space on both sides of the roadway.
A Maryland State Police helicopter crew successfully rescued a boater who experienced a medical emergency in a remote Somerset County location on Friday afternoon.
Emergency responders from Somerset County were called to Dames Quarter Lake around 1:30 p.m. on April 17 after a man ran his boat aground and began suffering a medical crisis. The United States Coast Guard requested assistance from the Maryland State Police Aviation Command because of the victim’s isolated location, lengthy ground evacuation time, and the severity of his medical condition. The SYSCOM Duty Officer sent Trooper 4, the state police helicopter stationed in Salisbury, to handle the mission.
Rescue teams began searching for the boater in waters east of Deal Island, Maryland. A Maryland Natural Resources Police officer found the man and determined that an aerial rescue was necessary because of shallow water conditions that prevented boat or ground-based evacuations. A Trooper/Paramedic was lowered onto solid ground in the marsh where boats couldn’t reach, evaluated the victim’s medical condition, and prepared him for aerial evacuation using an ARV-QC rescue device.
The Trooper 4 crew maintained a hover position approximately 70 feet above the marsh and successfully lifted the victim to safety. After securing the patient aboard the aircraft, the flight team immediately began providing medical care during transport to a nearby hospital. The rescue operation was completed using an AgustaWestland AW-139 helicopter.
The Maryland State Police Aviation Command has been operating since 1970 and maintains 10 AW139 helicopters across seven Maryland bases. These aircraft provide 24-hour coverage for Maryland residents and visitors through medical evacuation, law enforcement, search and rescue, homeland security, and disaster assessment missions. Mission success depends on collaboration between local fire, rescue, EMS, law enforcement agencies, and partner organizations.
Former dairy farmer Bryan Vander Dussen has discovered an unexpected new business venture. After transitioning to beef ranching, he and his wife now transform organ fat from their livestock into skincare balms that customers eagerly apply to their faces.
The biggest challenge? Developing formulations that don’t leave users smelling like dinner.
“You see it everywhere, so we were like, ‘Why don’t we do this?’” Vander Dussen explained. “Some of the feedback is, ‘We don’t want to smell like beef,’ so we add things like lavender and wild orange to kind of counter that potential beef smell.”
Animal-derived skincare products, ranging from beef tallow moisturizers to salmon DNA facial treatments, have captured consumer attention in recent years. These products are being marketed as natural substitutes for synthetic alternatives and are appearing everywhere from social media feeds to luxury spas, farmers’ markets, and home kitchens.
Some researchers link this trend to growing concerns about chemical exposure and messaging from the Make America Healthy Again movement promoting animal-based products.
“There’s been a movement in the last couple of years to embrace animal-based foods,” noted Norah MacKendrick, an associate professor of sociology at Rutgers University who studies consumer concerns about chemicals in personal care items. “I think some of that is probably spilling over into the cosmetic world.”
Natalee Keenan, 31, was searching for natural skincare options when she decided to experiment with tallow. While her initial purchase felt heavy and had a meaty texture, the western Pennsylvania resident recently discovered a whipped tallow balm with coconut scent that feels much lighter on her skin.
“I use it sparingly,” Keenan said, noting that a small amount keeps her skin feeling smooth.
However, medical professionals express caution about the lack of scientific evidence supporting these products’ effectiveness.
The cosmetics industry abandoned many animal-derived ingredients decades ago due to concerns about animal testing and disease outbreaks like mad cow disease, according to Perry Romanowski, an independent cosmetic chemist who studies skincare ingredient formulation.
These concerns, combined with the rise of vegan beauty products, led many brands to eliminate animal-based ingredients entirely. Recently, however, some of these materials have returned to skincare products, often marketed as natural alternatives.
Jamie Moody, founder of Sonoma Mountain Beef in Northern California, began creating tallow products to minimize waste. “Since the trend toward clean products remains strong, I believe the market will continue to grow,” she said.
Vander Dussen, the California rancher, acknowledged he and his wife are “just kind of jumping onto the fad that’s already there.” He added: “In today’s world, it’s very important not only what you are putting on your face but where it comes from.”
Kelly Pratt, who operates a spa in Tampa, Florida, reports increased demand for treatments like salmon DNA facials because clients notice improvements over time. Cassandra Hutchison, an aesthetician providing these treatments at the spa, says the ingredient aims to repair skin and reduce inflammation. She claims it enhances hydration, improves skin appearance, and repairs damage to the protective outer layer that retains moisture and blocks irritants.
While pricing varies, a container of tallow balm at Target costs approximately $15 more than petroleum jelly. Although some salmon-based products like masks are available for home use, many require professional spa application, increasing costs. Despite this, consumer interest remains high, with Google searches for terms like “beef tallow for skin” increasing significantly in recent years.
Converting animal waste into usable products represents a form of sustainability, experts acknowledge.
However, neither beef tallow nor salmon DNA have substantial medical research supporting their effectiveness, according to Dr. Angelo Landriscina, a New York City dermatologist who uses social media to address skincare misinformation.
Dr. Heather Rogers, a Seattle dermatologist, agrees there’s no medical evidence supporting tallow’s skin benefits. She warns it can become rancid and difficult to apply, while additives used to improve scent may cause irritation.
Romanowski, the cosmetic chemist, advises consumers to maintain realistic expectations. He notes only a few skincare ingredients, including retinol (a vitamin A derivative used for reducing fine lines and wrinkles) and niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3 that helps with redness and strengthens skin), have strong scientific backing. Other ingredients may provide only minor benefits that consumers might not notice.
Corrin Dial, 32, operates Lowcountry Family Farms with her husband in South Carolina. Neither grew up farming, but they decided to pursue it after his military service ended.
Dial began experimenting with whipped tallow about two years ago while seeking a natural balm for her baby. She believes many people choose these products to avoid chemicals, citing a customer with cancer whose doctor advised caution with topical products. “A lot of people are moving away from the chemical stuff, they’re trying to get into healthy eating and using more products where they know exactly where it came from,” she said.
MacKendrick, the Rutgers sociologist, suggests that mothers, who have become increasingly concerned about chemical effects on children, may be driving the shift toward animal-based cosmetic products.
“We find that mothers are making these decisions for the household,” MacKendrick explained. “Buying cosmetics for children or personal care products for children is considered high-stakes work.”
Landriscina observed that ingredients like salmon-based skincare being promoted as “the hottest new thing” can stem from beliefs that other cultures, particularly in places like Korea, are more advanced or innovative in skincare. This differs from the “back to basics” mindset that attracts people to ingredients like beef tallow. Regardless of whether people prefer traditional or novel approaches, he emphasizes that skincare decisions should be based on scientific evidence.
Romanowski notes the beauty industry faces constant pressure to introduce new products.
“You should think of the cosmetic industry more like the fashion industry because you can only do so much with the shirt, right?” Romanowski explained. “You can change the color, you can do some aesthetics thing, but it’s still a shirt and it’s the same thing with cosmetics.”
ABOARD THE PAPAL PLANE (AP) — During his ongoing African visit, Pope Leo XIV told journalists Saturday that engaging in a public argument with President Donald Trump regarding the Iran conflict holds no appeal for him, though he plans to maintain his Gospel-centered peace advocacy.
The pontiff made these remarks while speaking with reporters during his flight from Cameroon to Angola, as part of an 11-day African journey.
Leo addressed the escalating exchange following Trump’s recent criticisms of his peace-focused messaging, which has captured significant media attention this week. The American-born pope also worked to clarify his position, emphasizing that his spiritual teachings target no specific individual but rather reflect Christianity’s fundamental peace principles.
“There’s been a certain narrative that has not been accurate in all of its aspects, but because of the political situation created when, on the first day of the trip, the president of the United States made some comments about myself,” he said.
“Much of what has been written since then has been more commentary on commentary, trying to interpret what has been said.”
The controversy began April 12 when Trump used his Truth Social platform to attack Leo’s peace advocacy amid the ongoing Iran war, which started with combined U.S.-Israeli military action on February 28, followed by Iranian counter-strikes. Trump characterized Leo as weak on crime and too aligned with liberal politics, while claiming credit for the first American pope’s election.
Leo has maintained steady appeals for peace and diplomatic solutions, while condemning the use of faith to justify warfare. He specifically labeled Trump’s threats to destroy Iranian civilization as “truly unacceptable.”
Vatican officials have emphasized that Leo’s peace messages address global conflicts broadly, not solely the Iran situation. The Russian Orthodox Church, for instance, has characterized Moscow’s Ukrainian invasion as a “holy war.”
During Saturday’s media session, Leo referenced his earlier remarks this week at a peace gathering in Bamenda, Cameroon. That city sits at the center of a separatist struggle that has consumed the country’s western, English-speaking areas for almost ten years.
Leo explained that his speech condemning the “handful of tyrants” wreaking havoc through warfare and oppression was prepared two weeks prior, well before Trump’s public attacks began.
“And yet as it happens, it was looked at as if I was trying to debate again the president, which is not in my interest at all,” he said.
Moving forward, he affirmed his commitment to continuing Gospel teachings.
“I primarily come to Africa as a pastor, as the head of the Catholic Church to be with, to celebrate with, to encourage and accompany all the Catholics throughout Africa,” he said.
He highlighted upcoming religious readings focusing on Christian discipleship and following Christ’s example, promoting brotherhood “but also looking for ways to promote justice in our world, promote peace in our world,” he said.
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump issued an executive order Saturday instructing federal agencies to expedite evaluations of psychedelic substances for medical purposes, including ibogaine — a drug that has gained traction among military veterans and Republican legislators despite documented health hazards.
Currently classified under Schedule I — the federal government’s most severe category for prohibited substances with high abuse potential — ibogaine faces significant regulatory barriers. However, the new directive aims to streamline access to psychedelic compounds that federal authorities have already identified as potentially breakthrough treatments.
“Today’s order will ensure that people suffering from debilitating symptoms might finally have a chance to reclaim their lives and lead a happier life,” Trump declared during the signing ceremony. The president emphasized his order would help “dramatically accelerate” both research opportunities and treatment availability for psychedelic medications. “If these turn out to be as good as people are saying, it’s going to have a tremendous impact,” he added.
Military veteran advocacy groups and psychedelic researchers have persistently argued that ibogaine — derived from a West African shrub — shows significant therapeutic potential for challenging conditions including post-traumatic stress disorder and opioid dependency.
This presidential action fulfills commitments made by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and other administration leaders to expand medical access to psychedelic treatments, an initiative that has garnered unusual cross-party political backing.
Present during the Oval Office ceremony were senior health department officials, popular podcaster Joe Rogan, and Marcus Luttrell, the former Navy SEAL whose Afghanistan combat memoir inspired the movie “Lone Survivor.” Rogan revealed he had texted Trump details about ibogaine, prompting the president to reply: “Sounds great. Do you want FDA approval? Let’s do it.”
“You’re going to save a lot of lives through it,” Luttrell told Trump during the event. “It absolutely changed my life for the better.”
The Food and Drug Administration plans to distribute national priority vouchers for three psychedelic substances next week, which agency commissioner Marty Makary explained will enable rapid approval for certain drugs “if they are in line with our national priorities.” This marks the first instance of the FDA extending such expedited processing to any psychedelic compounds.
Federal regulators are also establishing frameworks for the inaugural human testing of ibogaine on American soil.
Trump’s decision caught many veteran psychedelic advocates and scientists off guard, particularly given ibogaine’s documented association with potentially life-threatening cardiac complications. The National Institutes of Health supported brief research into the substance during the 1990s before halting investigations due to ibogaine’s “cardiovascular toxicity.”
“It’s been incredibly difficult to study ibogaine in the U.S. because of its known cardiotoxicity,” explained Frederick Barrett, who directs the Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research. “If the executive order can pave the way for doing objective, scientific research with this compound, it would help us understand whether it is truly a better psychedelic therapy than others.”
While no psychedelic substance has received U.S. approval, multiple compounds including psilocybin, MDMA, and LSD are undergoing extensive clinical trials for various psychiatric disorders. These substances remain federally prohibited under Schedule I classification, similar to heroin. Oregon and Colorado have authorized therapeutic psilocybin programs within their borders.
Members of the Bwiti religious tradition in African countries like Gabon originally incorporated ibogaine into their spiritual practices.
Recently, American veterans have documented positive outcomes after receiving ibogaine treatment at Mexican medical facilities.
Support from veteran organizations and former Texas Governor Rick Perry resulted in legislation last year allocating $50 million for ibogaine studies in Texas. Perry, who helped establish Americans for Ibogaine, recently advocated for reduced federal restrictions on Rogan’s podcast — his second appearance discussing ibogaine on the influential show within two years.
Medical literature documents ibogaine’s connection to abnormal heart rhythms and links the substance to over 30 fatalities, according to the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, a nonprofit organization that conducted early international patient studies.
Ismail Lourido Ali, the organization’s co-executive director, suggested Trump’s directive might motivate additional states to adopt Texas-style approaches.
“The stigma around Schedule I drugs is significant,” Ali noted. “It feels like this would give pretty substantial cover for Republican governors and legislatures to step into the ring in terms of funding research programs at their universities.”
Operators of ibogaine treatment centers indicated the order’s effects won’t be immediate.
“There will be no insurance coverage, it will still be considered unapproved and non-covered care,” stated Tom Feegel from Beond Ibogaine, which runs a Cancun, Mexico facility. “But what it does mean is that ibogaine shifts from being fringe and underground to being federally acknowledged.”
Feegel reported his clinic provided ibogaine treatment to 2,000 patients last year, charging between $15,000 and $20,000 per individual. The facility also offered complimentary treatment to approximately 100 veterans.
Medical centers administering the drug routinely monitor patients’ cardiac activity and maintain emergency medical equipment nearby.
Among the few recent U.S.-led investigations, Stanford University researchers found veterans receiving ibogaine treatment demonstrated improvement in traumatic brain injury symptoms, including PTSD, depression, and anxiety. The study involved 30 veterans who obtained treatment in Mexico but lacked a placebo comparison group — a fundamental component of rigorous medical research. Study participants received ibogaine combined with magnesium designed to minimize cardiac risks.
ANTALYA, Turkey (AP) — A high-ranking Iranian diplomat announced Saturday that Tehran remains unprepared for direct negotiations with American officials, blaming Washington’s unwillingness to drop what he characterized as “excessive” positions on critical matters.
Speaking with The Associated Press during a diplomatic conference in Turkey, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh firmly dismissed President Donald Trump’s assertions about transferring enriched uranium, stating his nation would never surrender such materials to America.
“I can tell you that no enriched material is going to be shipped to United States,” Khatibzadeh stated. “This is non-starter and I can assure you that while we are ready to address any concerns that we do have, we’re not going to accept things that are non-starters.”
Trump declared Friday that America would enter Iran to “get all the nuclear dust,” referencing approximately 970 pounds (440 kilograms) of enriched uranium reportedly stored beneath nuclear facilities severely damaged during U.S. military operations last year.
While acknowledging ongoing message exchanges between both nations, Khatibzadeh criticized the United States for maintaining positions that Iran considers unreasonable.
“We are still not there yet to move on to an actual meeting because there are issues that the Americans have not yet abandoned their maximalist position,” Khatibzadeh explained. He noted Iran wants to complete a “framework agreement” before proceeding with face-to-face discussions.
The Iranian representative declined to detail specific negotiation points or identify outstanding disputes, but urged Washington to address Tehran’s primary concerns, particularly economic sanctions targeting Iran.
“The other sides also should understand and address our main concerns, which are illegal unilateral sanctions that Americans have imposed on Iranians and this economic terrorism which has targeted Iranian people to suffocate them and make them to revolt against the political structure inside Iran,” Khatibzadeh said.
Regarding potential Iranian responses to renewed Israeli attacks on Lebanon despite the ceasefire, Khatibzadeh declared: “Iran has no option, just to stop aggressors once and forever.”
Trump announced that Israel faces U.S. restrictions on additional Lebanese strikes, saying “enough is enough” regarding the Israel-Hezbollah conflict.
The State Department clarified these limitations apply solely to offensive operations, not defensive actions.
The Iranian official reaffirmed Tehran’s stance that its actions were defensive responses to unprovoked aggression during ongoing negotiations.
He also restated Iran’s demand that any ceasefire include Lebanon, where Israel has been battling the Iran-supported militant organization Hezbollah.
Following last week’s temporary U.S.-Iran truce, Pakistan and Iran claimed it covered Lebanon, but Israel and subsequently the U.S. rejected this interpretation. Israel then conducted multiple airstrikes on central Beirut, prompting Iran to announce another closure of the Strait of Hormuz. After Friday’s Lebanese truce implementation, Iran declared the strait reopened.
“Iran negotiated with good faith, accepted a ceasefire and told everybody that this ceasefire should include all countries, including Lebanon,” Khatibzadeh said. “Then the other side said that, it is not committed to this and then started atrocities.”
He indicated that negotiations with the U.S. would establish a “new protocol” for the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring it would “remain open and safe for all civilian passage.”
Trump has indicated the U.S. blockade of the Strait of Hormuz will continue and military action will resume without an Iranian agreement.
Rural communities across the Upper Midwest began cleanup efforts Saturday following a devastating weather outbreak that brought confirmed tornadoes and destructive winds to the region.
The storms caused extensive property damage throughout multiple states — homes lost their roofs, electrical lines came down, and roadways became blocked by fallen debris. Remarkably, authorities confirmed zero fatalities from the severe weather event.
“We are extremely fortunate that this storm did not result in loss of life or serious injury,” Stephenson County Sheriff Steve Stovall said of the storm that hit Lena, Illinois, on Friday.
Authorities in Wisconsin and Minnesota shared similar relief about the lack of casualties.
Central Wisconsin communities of Kronenwetter and Ringle bore the brunt of tornado damage Friday afternoon, with homes sustaining major damage and some residents becoming temporarily stuck in their basements, according to Ringle Fire Chief Chris Kielman.
Marathon County Sheriff Chad Billeb expressed shock at the scope of destruction during a Friday evening press briefing, noting he had never witnessed such widespread damage in his three decades of police work.
“A lot of people are going to need a lot of help,” Billeb said of the Wisconsin storms.
Wisconsin State Representative Brent Jacobson warned Saturday morning via social media that the recovery effort would be lengthy.
“As the photos and videos continue to come in, it is clear that parts of Ringle and Kronenwetter suffered devastating damage,” Jacobson’s statement said.
Olmsted County, Minnesota experienced what sheriff’s deputies described as “multiple levels” of tornado damage. Marion Township alone saw at least 30 homes damaged, with several experiencing “significant” destruction.
Teams from Minnesota Homeland Security and Emergency Management, Rochester Fire and Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office conducted house-to-house wellness checks on residents, according to the sheriff’s office.
The National Weather Service confirmed the destruction appeared consistent with tornado damage and announced plans for damage assessment teams to survey the affected regions throughout the weekend.
In Illinois, 14-year-old Leo Zach had just arrived at his high school’s band room for a music competition when the structure began trembling and electricity failed. He described the room as crowded with students, some of whom experienced panic attacks from fear.
“I’m definitely on the luckier side of how that could’ve happened,” he said. “I was just trying to stay calm, help other people.”
Upon exiting the building, they discovered gymnasium windows had been blown out and sections of the school’s roof had been torn away.
Social media images and videos revealed completely destroyed garages, brick facades stripped from buildings, and demolished fencing.
Lena is a community of approximately 3,000 residents situated roughly 117 miles northwest of Chicago.
Rachel Nemon was traveling to collect her stepson from Lena’s middle school when she sought shelter at a car wash during the storm’s peak. She witnessed a massive tree being uprooted and electrical sparks flying just feet from her location.
“This is something that you see online, not in real life, especially in a small town in Illinois,” she said.
Governor JB Pritzker announced via social media platform X that he had received damage briefings and confirmed the Illinois Emergency Management Agency had deployed to the affected areas.
Delaware Department of Transportation officials report that waste collection activities are currently taking place along Appleby Road at the Wilson Boulevard intersection.
The cleanup operations are being conducted on both the northbound and southbound shoulders of the roadway. DelDOT indicates the work is expected to continue until 4:30 PM today.
Motorists traveling through the area should exercise caution and be aware of crews working alongside the roadway during the cleanup activities.
A crude oil tanker flying the Indian flag came under attack Saturday while navigating through the Strait of Hormuz, according to sources within the Indian government.
Officials identified the targeted ship as the Sanmar Herald and confirmed that both the vessel and its crew members remain safe following the incident.
Saturday’s attack was part of broader hostilities in the strategic waterway, with at least two commercial ships reporting they were struck by gunfire while attempting passage through the strait.
In response to the incident, Indian officials have called Iran’s ambassador to India for discussions regarding the attack.
The violence comes amid ongoing tensions over shipping access through the vital corridor. On Friday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Iran had committed to keeping the strait open, while Iranian leadership stated they expect America to completely end its blockade of Iranian oil tankers.
Shipping records indicate that more than a dozen tankers, including three vessels under sanctions, successfully passed through the Strait of Hormuz after authorities ended a 50-day shipping blockade on Friday. However, Iran reinstated restrictions on Saturday and opened fire on some vessels attempting transit.
During his flight to Angola on Saturday, Pope Leo addressed recent tensions with former President Donald Trump, clarifying that media coverage of his statements during his African journey “has not been accurate in all its aspects.”
The pontiff, who hails from Chicago and is the first American to hold the papal office, told reporters in English that remarks he delivered in Cameroon earlier this week condemning how the world was being “ravaged by a handful of tyrants” were not targeting Trump specifically.
According to Leo, the controversial speech “was prepared two weeks ago, well before the president ever commented on myself and on the message of peace that I am promoting.”
The exchange began when Trump criticized the pope on Truth Social as he prepared for his African journey, labeling him “WEAK on Crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy.” Trump also shared an AI-created image depicting himself in a Christ-like manner, which sparked backlash from religious conservatives and was subsequently deleted.
Trump’s attacks appeared to stem from Pope Leo’s increasing vocal opposition to the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran in recent weeks.
When Pope Leo indicated on Monday that he would continue addressing the war publicly, Trump doubled down on his criticisms the following day.
During Thursday’s address, the pope condemned world leaders for allocating billions toward warfare and declared that “a handful of tyrants” were devastating the planet, though he avoided naming Trump directly.
“As it happens, it was looked at as if I was trying to debate the president, which is not in my interest at all,” the pontiff explained on Saturday.
The Chicago native maintained a relatively quiet public presence during his initial 10 months as pope, but has adopted a more assertive approach during his African visit, delivering strong condemnations of warfare, social disparity, and international leadership.
His current African journey represents one of the most logistically challenging papal trips ever organized, featuring visits to 11 urban centers across four nations and covering approximately 18,000 kilometers through 18 separate flights over 10 days.
The Department of Justice has declined to provide assistance to French authorities investigating Elon Musk’s social media company X, according to a Saturday report from the Wall Street Journal.
The Journal reported that the DOJ’s Office of International Affairs sent a letter to French law enforcement refusing cooperation with their probe, which followed a raid on X’s Paris office conducted earlier this year.
Reuters was unable to independently confirm the Wall Street Journal’s reporting at the time of publication.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – President Donald Trump signed an executive order Saturday directing federal agencies to fast-track the development and approval of psychedelic medications for medical treatment purposes.
The directive instructs the Food and Drug Administration to prioritize the review process for substances like ibogaine, which veterans’ organizations believe could provide effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder.
During a ceremony held in the Oval Office, federal administrators explained that these policy changes would create a pathway for hallucinogenic substances – currently classified as illegal drugs – to receive new regulatory status following successful medical trials. The president also committed $50 million in federal funding specifically for ibogaine research initiatives.
Residents in New Castle County, Delaware and Salem County, New Jersey should prepare for minor coastal flooding tonight as the National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory effective from 11 PM tonight through 3 AM Sunday morning.
Up to one foot of water above ground level is expected in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways. The flooding will primarily impact the most vulnerable roads along tidal areas, with some partial or full road closures possible.
Officials are urging drivers to avoid parking vehicles in flood-prone locations and never attempt to drive through flood waters. “The water may be deeper than you think,” warns the National Weather Service, emphasizing that attempting to drive through flooded areas puts both drivers and vehicles at risk.
While this is considered minor tidal flooding, it can still create dangerous driving conditions and costly vehicle damage. Residents should plan alternate routes if they need to travel during the advisory period.
The Coastal Flood Advisory expires at 3 AM Sunday morning. For real-time water level information and flood impacts for local tide gauges, residents can visit the National Water Prediction Service online.
Stay with TV Delmarva for continuing coverage of local weather conditions.
A French peacekeeper lost his life and three colleagues sustained injuries during an ambush in southern Lebanon on Saturday, according to French President Emmanuel Macron.
Macron pointed the finger at Hezbollah for the deadly assault, stating on social media that “Everything suggests that responsibility for this attack lies with Hezbollah.” The French leader called on Lebanese officials to “immediately arrest those responsible and assume their responsibilities alongside UNIFIL,” referring to the United Nations peacekeeping mission operating in southern Lebanon.
The fallen soldier was identified as Staff Sgt. Florian Montorio, who served with the 17th Parachute Engineer Regiment based in Montauban. Macron noted that three of Montorio’s “comrades in arms were injured and evacuated.”
“The nation bows in respect and extends its support to the families of our soldiers and to all our military personnel engaged for peace in Lebanon,” Macron declared.
This tragedy marks the second deadly incident involving French forces in the region within a month. On March 12, a drone strike at a Kurdish military installation in Iraq’s Erbil area claimed the life of French Chief Warrant Officer Arnaud Frion and left six others wounded.
French Armed Forces Minister Catherine Vautrin revealed that Montorio died during an ambush in Lebanon’s Deir Kifa area. According to Vautrin, the soldier was attempting to establish access to a UNIFIL outpost that had been cut off for multiple days due to combat between Hezbollah militants and Israeli troops.
The attack occurred just one day after a 10-day ceasefire agreement went into effect in Lebanon, though questions remain about Hezbollah’s commitment to a truce they did not help negotiate.
“He was caught in an ambush by an armed group at very close range,” Vautrin explained on X. “Immediately hit by a direct shot from a light weapon, he was pulled back under fire by his comrades, who were unable to resuscitate him.”
Following the incident, Macron contacted Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam to demand that Lebanese authorities “shed full light on this incident, to identify and prosecute those responsible without delay, and to do everything possible to ensure the safety of UNIFIL soldiers, who must under no circumstances be targeted,” according to the French president’s office.
Macron also emphasized “the importance of full respect for the ceasefire by all parties and reaffirmed France’s commitment to Lebanon’s sovereignty, for the benefit of all Lebanese people and regional stability.”
Weather experts are sounding the alarm as dry conditions across the continental United States have reached unprecedented severity for this time of year, creating concerns about wildfire dangers, agricultural losses, and rising grocery costs.
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, over 61% of the Lower 48 states are currently experiencing moderate to severe drought conditions, with 97% of the Southeast and two-thirds of western states affected. These figures represent the most extensive drought coverage recorded for March since monitoring began in 2000.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Palmer Drought Severity Index registered its most severe March reading since data collection started in 1895. Last month also ranked as the third-driest on record for any month, surpassed only by the notorious Dust Bowl periods of July and August 1934.
Unusually high temperatures have resulted in dramatically reduced snowpack levels across western regions during the early months of 2024, eliminating the area’s primary water storage system for summer months. Meanwhile, a separate drought pattern linked to jet stream changes has pushed storm systems northward, creating dry conditions stretching from Texas to the Atlantic Coast, according to Brian Fuchs, a climatologist with the National Drought Mitigation Center.
NOAA scientists estimate that eastern Texas would require 19 inches of rainfall within a single month to end current drought conditions, while most southeastern areas would need more than 12 inches to address their water deficits.
“Right now 61% of the country is in drought and that’s steadily been going up for the calendar year,” Fuchs said. “We just haven’t seen too many springs where this amount of the country has been in this kind of shape.”
UCLA hydroclimatologist Park Williams highlighted a concerning measurement called vapor pressure deficit, which tracks how aggressively hot, dry air extracts moisture from soil and vegetation. This “sponginess” factor currently sits 77% above normal levels and exceeds the previous January-March record by more than 25%.
Such intense ground moisture extraction “wouldn’t have appeared possible” previously, Williams noted.
The timing particularly worries meteorologists, since drought conditions typically worsen during summer rather than spring months.
“Fire tends to respond to heat and drought in an exponential manner,” Williams explained. “For each degree of warming, you get a bigger bang in terms of fire than you got from the previous degree of warming.”
In Arizona, desert cacti are flowering months ahead of schedule, and water concerns have already intensified, reported Kathy Jacobs, who directs the Center for Climate Adaptation Science and Solutions at the University of Arizona.
“Those of us who are dependent on the Colorado River, of course, are very concerned about the fact that we don’t have a negotiated path forward in the middle of what appears to be possibly the worst year of drought that we’ve all experienced,” Jacobs said. “We have lots of reservoirs that are not full.”
Yale Climate Connections meteorologist Jeff Masters expressed particular worry about agricultural impacts and subsequent food price increases. Poor American crop yields due to drought could create global food security issues, especially with predictions of a strong El Nino weather pattern that typically reduces harvests in other regions like India.
Williams from UCLA attributed the drought and elevated temperatures to a combination of natural weather variations and human-driven climate change, with natural factors playing a slightly larger role currently.
“All weather is now affected by climate change,” Jacobs emphasized. “There is no such thing as weather that’s divorced from climate trends. But this extreme event is extreme in the way that we’ve been expecting: extreme heat waves, intense drought.”
PHOENIX (AP) — Arizona faces several competitive congressional races this November, with Democrats defending key positions including governor, attorney general and secretary of state.
However, the biggest attention has focused on election operations in the state’s largest county, where significant controversy has emerged.
Justin Heap, a Republican who questions election integrity, is conducting his first major election as Maricopa County’s recorder. He’s locked in an intense legal battle with county supervisors regarding election protocols, implemented a disputed mail ballot signature verification system, and used federal databases to screen voter rolls for non-citizens despite accuracy concerns. Heap has also reached out to Trump administration officials seeking voter data and election information.
His decisions have sparked sharp criticism from board members who share election oversight responsibilities with his office, plus condemnation from both the attorney general and secretary of state. A recent court decision will expand Heap’s control over election management.
This conflict has generated uncertainty about midterm election administration in a county frequently targeted by election conspiracy advocates and crucial for determining statewide outcomes in this key political swing state.
Democratic State Sen. Lauren Kuby, who serves on a legislative elections panel and represents portions of Phoenix, expressed concern that the conflict between the recorder and county board creates confusion and erodes trust.
“We’re one of the biggest counties in the country, and we have all of our election administrators fighting right now,” she said. “So I imagine if you’re a voter, you’re pretty confused and worried.”
Despite repeated requests for comment, Heap’s office provided no response. However, Heap released a statement about the court decision, saying it “restores both the authority and the resources necessary for my office to do its job.”
After winning against the sitting officeholder in the 2024 Republican primary, Heap immediately began confronting the Republican-majority board of supervisors.
In June 2025, he filed suit against them with support from America First Legal, a conservative organization established by Stephen Miller, currently serving as White House deputy chief of staff. The legal action claimed the board negotiated arrangements with Heap’s predecessor to move funding, IT personnel and various election duties from his office, including drop box oversight, early ballot processing and early voting location management.
A Maricopa County Superior Court judge ruled mostly in Heap’s favor. Board chair Kate Brophy McGee indicated the board might appeal the decision.
Prior to the ruling, supervisors characterized Heap’s legal action as baseless and “full of falsehoods” in what they described as a power grab that has sometimes escalated dramatically. A January budget session deteriorated into angry exchanges, with Republican Supervisor Thomas Galvin stating Heap “continues to lie over and over again.” Heap later dismissed the confrontation as a “juvenile temper tantrum.”
The board offered a settlement proposal earlier this year but received no counter-proposal from Heap.
After assuming office, Heap modified the mail ballot signature verification process.
The updated system requires workers from both parties to examine signatures, with additional staff conducting extra reviews of questionable signatures, Heap explained to the board during a fall meeting.
However, some officials and observers worry the new approach might result in valid ballots being incorrectly rejected. Galvin described the November 2025 local election rejection rate as “huge” compared to previous elections.
He expressed concern that the revised signature verification represents a “looming disaster” and worried that many people “who legally and validly voted last November saw their ballots be rejected for arbitrary reasons.”
Heap maintains the new approach is both quicker and more secure. “In the end, the signatures either match or they don’t,” he told the board.
Heap has highlighted his office’s utilization of the Department of Homeland Security’s SAVE database to locate potential non-citizens on voter registration lists.
His office reported discovering “137 registered voters who are not U.S. citizens” with 60 of those having “voted in prior elections.” The Maricopa County attorney’s office confirmed receiving 207 names from the recorder for eligibility review.
Non-citizen voting occurs infrequently, and the SAVE database has faced criticism from election officials and specialists who argue it often incorrectly flags eligible voters as non-citizens. Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, a Democrat, called the system unreliable in an interview.
“The SAVE system is notoriously inaccurate,” he said. “You can’t depend on that to take somebody off the voter rolls or to start the removal proceeding.”
The recorder’s office announced SAVE system usage on the same day Heap attended a Phoenix-area press conference where then-DHS Secretary Kristi Noem promoted congressional legislation requiring documented citizenship proof for voter registration.
Fontes said his office hasn’t received additional details about the alleged non-citizen voters and the announcement’s timing suggests it’s “more of a headline grab than anything without more information.”
Heap’s appearance at Noem’s February press conference wasn’t his only connection to the Trump administration.
Public records from the recorder’s office reveal willingness to cooperate with the Justice Department. This year, the department confiscated ballots and other 2020 election materials from Georgia’s Fulton County, which encompasses Atlanta.
Meanwhile, the FBI subpoenaed similar Maricopa County documents from the state Senate president.
Harmeet Dhillon, who leads the department’s Civil Rights Division, contacted Fontes, Heap and county officials in September requesting preservation of county election materials. Heap responded the following day, emphasizing his office is “committed to full cooperation with the Department of Justice as it conducts its investigation,” adding: “We share your goal of safeguarding election integrity.”
Following similar actions in other states, the department later sued Arizona for non-compliance with requests for comprehensive voter data.
State Attorney General Kris Mayes, a Democrat, told local media that Heap is “trying to undermine Arizonans’ trust in our election system” and cautioned against providing voter lists to federal authorities.
With Arizona’s July primary approaching, some observers fear Heap’s conflicts with the board and other actions may damage public faith in elections.
“The voters need to have a sense that this county is well-run, that the recorder and the board of supervisors have the best interest of every voter,” said Pinny Sheoran, state advocacy chair with the League of Women Voters of Arizona. “And that is frayed with this discord.”
