Delaware transportation officials have announced a four-day road closure in Wilmington next week for bridge maintenance activities.
The Delaware Department of Transportation will shut down South Walnut Street between A Street and East Front Street from Monday, March 23, 2026, through Thursday, March 26, 2026. Officials say the closure is necessary to complete scheduled bridge maintenance work.
The road closure is scheduled to last the entire four-day period, though transportation officials note the timeline could change depending on weather conditions during the maintenance period.
Drivers who regularly use this section of South Walnut Street should plan alternate routes during the closure period.
Officials from Colombia and Ecuador are jointly investigating whether international boundaries were crossed during a military operation that left more than a dozen people dead near their shared border.
Colombian Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez revealed Wednesday that 14 individuals perished in explosions at cocaine processing facilities in January. The deaths occurred in the border province of Narino, with 12 people killed on January 22 and two more dying days later under similar circumstances.
The investigation stems from accusations by Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who claimed this week that Ecuadorean forces conducted bombing operations on Colombian soil, resulting in 27 deaths. However, Petro offered no supporting evidence for his allegations.
Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa firmly rejected the claims, stating his nation’s military targeted drug trafficking operations exclusively within Ecuador’s own borders. According to Noboa, the targeted locations served as bases for narco-terrorism organizations primarily composed of Colombian nationals.
“The information we have at this moment is that those people died after being burned alive. The site where they died was a cocaine laboratory, and the causes and who was behind it are under investigation. Two other people died under similar conditions at another site on January 24,” Sanchez explained to reporters.
Adding complexity to the dispute, Colombian authorities discovered what appears to be an Ecuadorean military explosive device on their territory. Sanchez indicated the bomb, which has been safely disarmed, likely originated from Ecuador’s armed forces.
Ecuador’s Foreign Minister Gabriela Sommerfeld expressed caution about the bomb’s origins when speaking to FM Mundo radio. “It is very difficult to speculate, to say that it is so or that it is not,” she stated. “We are open to receiving the diplomatic note … so that we can respond technically, with due importance given to that case.”
Sommerfeld emphasized that all Ecuadorean military actions occur within the country’s own territorial limits and indicated Ecuador’s willingness to engage in diplomatic discussions to resolve the disagreement.
Petro shared imagery from Colombian state television RTVC showing the alleged explosive device – a dark green cylindrical object found in vegetation. The Colombian president claimed the bomb was discovered just across the border from an area bombed by Ecuador and was delivered by a low-altitude aircraft.
The controversy emerges as Ecuador launched a comprehensive two-week security campaign across four Pacific coastal provinces to combat escalating gang violence. Ecuador regularly conducts operations along its Colombian border, which serves as a critical corridor for drug trafficking routes leading to the United States.
Ecuador has secured support from allied nations, including the United States, for its anti-narcotics efforts. President Noboa previously sought backing from former U.S. President Donald Trump for his crime-fighting initiatives.
Tensions between the neighboring countries have intensified recently, with Noboa imposing 50% tariffs on Colombian imports last month. The Ecuadorean leader justified the trade measure by claiming Colombia was not adequately addressing drug trafficking concerns. Colombia has indicated it may implement similar retaliatory trade restrictions.
Our planet faces a continuous bombardment from outer space. Countless space rocks race toward Earth daily, crashing into our atmosphere and frequently bursting into brilliant fireballs that captivate and sometimes worry observers.
Fortunately, nearly all of these cosmic visitors pose no threat as they get crushed into tiny particles or small pieces during their atmospheric journey.
This week, a spectacular fireball blazed across Cleveland’s sky, created by what scientists believe was a space rock measuring approximately 6 feet (1.8 meters) wide and weighing 7 tons. Witnesses spotted the event from Wisconsin all the way to Maryland, the American Meteor Society reported.
The object journeyed over 34 miles (55 kilometers) through Earth’s upper atmosphere before fragmenting, NASA confirmed. Researchers have not yet located any remaining pieces.
While this event seemed extraordinary, such occurrences happen with remarkable frequency. Here’s what you should understand:
Space rocks called asteroids are remnants of ice, metal, and stone left behind when our solar system formed 4.6 billion years ago. Meteoroids are smaller pieces broken off from larger space objects like asteroids or comets. When these objects burn up in our atmosphere, they create the bright streaks we call meteors. When a meteor shines brighter than Venus appears in dawn or dusk skies, scientists classify it as a fireball. Any fragments that reach the ground become meteorites.
Bright streaks from meteoroids appear frequently overhead, and during special periods known as meteor showers, observers can spot them every few minutes on clear nights. NASA considers the Perseids meteor shower, occurring each year in mid-August, the finest display of all.
According to the meteor society, “several thousand” meteors bright enough to qualify as fireballs enter Earth’s atmosphere daily. The challenge is that most appear over oceans or uninhabited areas, or daylight makes them impossible to detect.
Nevertheless, many people do witness these events. The American Meteor Society and International Meteor Organization encourage observers to report sightings for scientific investigation. Through 2026 so far, 10 fireballs have generated over 100 witness reports each, averaging almost one weekly.
These space objects race through the vacuum at tremendous velocities, ranging from 25,000 mph (40,233 kph) up to 160,000 mph (257,495 kph). Upon suddenly encountering Earth’s atmospheric gases, they experience extreme stress while compressing air ahead of them, heating the objects until they begin melting and fragmenting.
NEW YORK — More than a year following Val Kilmer’s passing, the beloved actor will take on a new role through cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology in what represents one of Hollywood’s most ambitious AI projects yet.
First Line Films revealed Wednesday that Kilmer will appear digitally in the independent movie “As Deep as the Grave.” According to producers, the late actor had committed to the project before his passing but couldn’t complete filming due to declining health conditions.
The Kilmer family estate approved the digital recreation and will receive compensation for its use. Mercedes Kilmer, Val’s daughter, expressed that the character held special meaning for her father.
“He always looked at emerging technologies with optimism as a tool to expand the possibilities of storytelling,” she said in a statement. “This spirit is something that we are all honoring within this specific film, of which he was an integral part.”
The iconic actor passed away in April at 65 years old due to pneumonia complications. Following a 2014 throat cancer diagnosis that required two tracheotomy procedures, Kilmer lost his natural speaking ability and collaborated with an AI technology firm to digitally restore his voice. His final on-screen appearance in 2022’s “Top Gun: Maverick” featured digitally enhanced vocals.
Artificial intelligence applications in cinema have sparked heated debates throughout the entertainment industry recently. Some companies are pushing boundaries with AI-generated performances, including Xicoia’s launch of virtual performer “Tilly Norwood” last year and a recent music video debut.
The Screen Actors Guild-AFTRA has criticized Xicoia’s “AI actor” concept while establishing guidelines for other technological applications. Union regulations require performer consent for digital replica usage, stating “Consent not obtained before death must be obtained from an authorized representative or the union.”
SAG-AFTRA representatives did not respond to Wednesday inquiries.
Writer-director Coerte Voorhees and producer John Voorhees confirmed via email that SAG protocols were followed.
“We believe we are serving as a demonstrator for how to do it ethically and correctly, especially in the case of working with a deceased actor’s estate and family,” they stated.
The film, previously called “Canyon of the Dead,” completed principal photography years ago but remained in post-production. The story chronicles real-life archaeologists Ann and Earl Morris, whose Arizona discoveries revealed significant Native American historical artifacts. Kilmer’s AI recreation portrays Father Fintan, a Catholic priest with Native American spiritual connections. The ensemble includes Abigail Lawrie, Tom Felton, Wes Studi and Abigail Breslin.
Coerte Voorhees noted that Kilmer, who claimed Native American heritage, connected with the project five years earlier. Producers are currently pursuing distribution deals hoping for a 2024 release.
“It was very unfortunate that his health at the time prevented him from playing this role which spoke to him spiritually and culturally,” Voorhees explained. “We are honored to collaborate with his daughter Mercedes, who brings her own filmmaking experience, to bring this character to life in the way that we had all originally imagined it.”
Federal aviation authorities announced Wednesday they will implement mandatory radar monitoring to maintain safe distances between helicopters and aircraft, following the tragic midair crash near the nation’s capital that claimed 67 lives earlier this year.
The Federal Aviation Administration determined that relying on pilots to visually spot other aircraft has proven insufficient for preventing dangerous encounters at major airports across the country.
The updated safety protocols will require air traffic control personnel to utilize radar technology for maintaining specific horizontal and vertical spacing between helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. These enhanced measures will take effect at over 150 high-traffic airports nationwide, building upon restrictions already implemented at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
“Today, we are proactively mitigating risks before they affect the traveling public,” FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said in a news release. “Following the mid-air collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), we looked at similar operations across the national airspace. We identified an overreliance on pilot ‘see and avoid’ operations that contribute to safety events involving helicopters and airplanes.”
Aviation authorities pointed to recent dangerous incidents, including a February 27 encounter where a law enforcement helicopter was forced to change course to avoid an incoming American Airlines aircraft at San Antonio International Airport in Texas. Another close call occurred March 2 when a helicopter had to alter its path to avoid a small plane approaching Hollywood Burbank Airport in California.
The January 2025 crash involving an American Airlines passenger jet and an Army Black Hawk helicopter represents the most devastating aviation disaster on American territory since 2001. Investigation findings revealed that air traffic controllers at Reagan National Airport relied too heavily on requesting pilots to visually identify nearby aircraft and maintain safe separation distances.
On the evening of the collision, control tower personnel twice granted the military helicopter’s request to maintain visual separation. Crash investigators determined the helicopter crew most likely never observed the commercial airliner as it approached for landing on a rarely used backup runway.
The victims included numerous young competitive figure skaters along with their families and coaching staff, who were returning from a training program in Wichita, Kansas, following the completion of the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in that city.
Three dozen states and cities launched a federal court battle Wednesday against the Trump administration, contesting its move to eliminate the scientific foundation underlying America’s climate change regulations.
The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, was spearheaded by New York and California. The legal action also targets the Environmental Protection Agency’s February announcement to eliminate vehicle emission standards that restrict greenhouse gases from automobiles and trucks.
The coalition includes Michigan, Connecticut, and Virginia at the state level, along with major cities including New York, Boston, Chicago, Denver and Los Angeles. This legal action follows a similar lawsuit previously filed by environmental advocacy organizations.
The National Hockey League imposed a $5,000 penalty on Carolina Hurricanes player Seth Jarvis following a high-sticking violation against Columbus Blue Jackets’ Conor Garland during Tuesday evening’s matchup.
The violation took place with 2 minutes and 2 seconds elapsed in the final period, as Carolina found themselves down by three goals in what would become a 5-1 defeat in Columbus, Ohio.
This marked Jarvis’s second high-sticking infraction of the evening that resulted in a four-minute penalty and caused facial bleeding to a Blue Jackets player. Earlier in the opening period, he had similarly struck Columbus defenseman Zach Werenski, which led to a power-play score by Mason Marchment that put the Blue Jackets ahead 1-0.
The penalty issued by the NHL’s Player Safety division represents the highest amount permitted under the current collective bargaining agreement.
The 24-year-old Jarvis has accumulated 53 points this season through 28 goals and 25 assists across 59 games played. Prior to serving eight penalty minutes during Tuesday’s contest, he had only been assessed 13 penalty minutes throughout the entire season.
A major music publisher has taken legal action against an artificial intelligence company, alleging the unauthorized use of popular song lyrics to develop AI technology.
BMG Rights Management filed a federal lawsuit Tuesday in California against Anthropic, claiming the AI firm violated copyright law by incorporating lyrics from major artists into the training data for its Claude chatbot system.
According to the legal filing, Anthropic unlawfully copied song lyrics from chart-topping artists including the Rolling Stones, Bruno Mars, and Ariana Grande, along with other well-known rock and pop performers. BMG alleges this resulted in hundreds of copyright violations.
This legal challenge represents another chapter in an expanding series of court battles between content creators and technology companies over AI training practices. Universal Music Group and additional music publishers previously filed similar claims against Anthropic in 2023, with that case still pending in court.
Last year, Anthropic reached a $1.5 billion settlement agreement with a group of authors who brought comparable allegations regarding AI training methods.
Company representatives from Anthropic had not provided a response to requests for comment by Wednesday.
In a public statement, BMG criticized the AI company’s approach, saying: “Anthropic’s practice of training AI models on copyrighted works sourced from unauthorized torrent sites, among other acts, stands in direct opposition to the standards required of any responsible participant in the AI community.”
Technology companies in the AI sector typically defend their practices by claiming fair use protections apply when transforming copyrighted content into new applications.
BMG, which operates under German media corporation Bertelsmann, has documented 493 specific instances of alleged copyright violations by Anthropic. Under federal copyright law, damages for each infringement can vary widely, potentially reaching $150,000 per work if courts determine the violations were intentional.
ROME, March 18 – In a rare departure from typical Vatican diplomacy, the Holy See’s chief diplomat issued a direct public appeal Wednesday for President Donald Trump to bring the escalating Iran conflict to an immediate conclusion.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who serves as the Vatican’s Secretary of State, made the unusually blunt statement while addressing reporters at an event held in Italy’s parliament building.
“I would say to finish it as soon as possible … and to leave alone Lebanon,” stated Parolin, who has served as a key adviser to American Pope Leo since taking his position in 2013.
The cardinal extended his message beyond the U.S. administration, adding, “This message goes also to the Israelis,” specifically referencing Israel’s ongoing military actions in Lebanon.
The public nature of Parolin’s comments represents a significant shift from standard Vatican diplomatic practices, which typically involve quiet behind-the-scenes negotiations rather than public pressure on world leaders. Known for his measured approach and preference for staying out of public attention, the cardinal’s direct appeal signals growing Vatican concern over the conflict’s trajectory.
Pope Leo has similarly intensified his peace advocacy in recent days, though he typically employs more diplomatic language in his public statements.
Earlier this week, the pontiff addressed members of the media, encouraging them to focus reporting on the human cost of warfare while warning against coverage that could serve as propaganda by romanticizing military conflicts.
Expressing fears about continued escalation, Parolin emphasized Wednesday that he wants Trump and other international leaders “to resolve problems … through the peaceful ways of diplomacy and dialogue.”
American intelligence officials released their latest assessment Wednesday indicating that China has no current intentions to launch a military invasion of Taiwan by 2027, preferring instead to achieve control through peaceful means.
The findings appear in the intelligence community’s yearly global threat evaluation, offering a more restrained perspective on what many consider one of the world’s most dangerous potential conflict zones. This comes at a time when Beijing has intensified its pressure campaign against Taiwan through regular military exercises, while President Donald Trump has minimized concerns about potential Chinese military action during his presidency.
Last year, Pentagon officials stated that U.S. military analysts believed China was working toward the capability to successfully capture Taiwan by 2027, marking the 100th anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army’s establishment. Defense officials said China was developing strategies to seize Taiwan through “brute force” if necessary.
According to the intelligence report, “China, despite its threat to use force to compel unification if necessary and to counter what it sees as a U.S. attempt to use Taiwan to undermine China’s rise, prefers to achieve unification without the use of force, if possible.”
The assessment further states that American intelligence “assesses that Chinese leaders do not currently plan to execute an invasion of Taiwan in 2027, nor do they have a fixed timeline for achieving unification.”
The document confirmed earlier evaluations that China’s military continues making “steady but uneven” advancement in developing capabilities that could be used to capture the democratically-run island.
Neither China’s Washington embassy nor Taiwan’s unofficial diplomatic mission in the capital provided immediate responses to requests for comment.
President Trump, who frequently emphasizes his positive relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping, has dismissed concerns about Chinese military activities around Taiwan. Trump claims Xi assured him there would be no attack on Taiwan during his term in office, though Beijing has never publicly confirmed such a statement.
Beijing considers Taiwan part of Chinese territory and maintains that military force remains an option for bringing the island under its authority. Taiwan’s government rejects China’s territorial claims, insisting that only Taiwan’s citizens have the right to determine their nation’s future.
Despite questions about Trump’s commitment to Taiwan’s defense, his administration approved a historic $11 billion weapons package for the island in December, drawing sharp criticism from Beijing, which demands an end to such military sales.
Elon Musk’s social media platform X experienced service disruptions Wednesday morning, affecting thousands of users nationwide before operations returned to normal.
Outage tracking website Downdetector.com recorded a surge in user complaints that reached more than 34,500 reports at the height of the disruption. By 11:39 a.m. Eastern Time, those reports had dropped significantly to just 845.
The outage monitoring service compiles its data by gathering status reports from multiple sources, though the platform notes that actual user impact numbers may vary since individuals voluntarily submit the reports.
X representatives had not provided a response to media inquiries about the service interruption as of Wednesday morning.
Ukrainian military officials announced Wednesday that their forces successfully targeted two Russian aviation facilities responsible for manufacturing and servicing military aircraft in separate regions of Russia.
According to the Ukrainian General Staff, forces attacked the Aviastar facility on March 16, which operates under Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation umbrella in Ulyanovsk. The facility sits approximately 500 miles from Ukraine’s border.
This particular plant manufactures Ilyushin-76MD-90A military transport aircraft and Ilyushin-78M-90A refueling aircraft, while also servicing “Ruslan” cargo planes, Ukrainian officials reported.
Military sources indicated that the strike damaged hangars and aircraft parking zones, with several planes sustaining damage in the attack.
A second operation took place March 17 at the 123rd aircraft maintenance facility located in Staraya Russia within the Novgorod region, according to Ukrainian military statements.
Ukrainian forces reported via Telegram that this second facility handles comprehensive repair and upgrade services for heavy transport aircraft, including Ilyushin-76, Ilyushin-78, and L-410 models.
The strike hit a hangar designated for servicing Ilyushin-76 and L-410 transport planes, though Reuters could not independently confirm these claims.
“Striking such targets directly reduces the enemy’s ability to restore and sustain combat-ready aircraft,” Ukrainian drone forces stated on social media platform X.
European officials unveiled an ambitious plan Wednesday designed to help the continent’s startups better compete with American innovation hubs by dramatically streamlining business formation across member nations.
The European Commission’s new “EU Inc” initiative would allow companies to establish operations within just two days while following uniform regulations throughout all 27 European Union countries, rather than navigating dozens of different national legal frameworks.
This streamlined approach addresses a longstanding challenge where European entrepreneurs often relocate their ventures to the United States to access its unified market and consistent corporate regulations. The initiative represents part of Europe’s broader strategy to enhance economic competitiveness and prevent further talent drain to America.
“We need to incentivise companies to stay in Europe and encourage those who once looked elsewhere to return,” stated European Commissioner Michael McGrath. “Europe has the talent, ideas, and ambition — but too often, bureaucracy drives our best entrepreneurs elsewhere.”
Under the proposed system, entrepreneurs could establish an EU Inc entity online for approximately $115 within 48 hours, compared to the current process that can stretch across months while dealing with more than 60 different business formation documents across member states.
European officials project roughly 300,000 companies will utilize this new structure during its first decade of operation.
The initiative comes as Europe seeks to address a significant gap in high-value startups. While the EU generated more new companies annually than America between 2018 and 2023, Europe currently hosts only 110 “unicorn” companies valued at $1 billion or more, compared to 687 in the United States and 162 in China as of early 2025.
Companies choosing the EU Inc structure would gain streamlined access to Europe’s single market, along with more standardized employee stock option programs and simplified bankruptcy procedures that could attract additional investment capital.
However, these businesses would still face varying national employment standards, tax codes, and other regulations specific to each country where they operate.
McGrath acknowledged the proposal’s limitations, saying “It will not resolve every issue, but it can make a very important contribution. It does need to be implemented and travel alongside all of the other reforms, particularly in the area of addressing fragmentation and removing the barriers in the single market.”
The initiative requires approval from both EU member governments and the European Parliament before implementation.
Previous European attempts to create cross-border business structures have struggled to gain traction, including the 2004 Societas Europeaea program that primarily served larger corporations. Supporters believe EU Inc will succeed due to its digital-first approach and growing recognition among member nations about the urgent need to close the competitiveness gap with other major economies.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has made Islamic traditions a prominent part of the city’s public calendar, celebrating Ramadan openly even as anti-Muslim rhetoric grows across the country.
The mayor participated in breaking the daily Ramadan fast alongside incarcerated individuals at the city’s Rikers Island correctional facility, demonstrating his commitment to making the holy month visible in New York’s civic life.
Mamdani’s public observance of Ramadan occurs during a period when numerous right-wing politicians and activists are expressing increased animosity, and sometimes outright prejudice, toward Muslim Americans nationwide.
The mayor’s approach to highlighting Islamic traditions represents a stark contrast to the growing backlash against Muslim communities that has emerged in various parts of the United States.
The head of Italy’s UniCredit bank says his company is concentrating on a possible deal with Germany’s Commerzbank instead of pursuing mergers with other Italian financial institutions, according to remarks made Wednesday at a banking conference.
CEO Andrea Orcel addressed attendees at a Morgan Stanley financial conference in London, explaining that while future opportunities for Italian banking consolidation may emerge, the German bank partnership remains the current focus.
Orcel noted that any consolidation within Italy’s banking sector would ultimately be determined by shareholders who hold effective control over their institutions.
The executive identified three Italian banking groups that could potentially consider partnerships either among themselves or with UniCredit – referring to mid-sized lenders Banco BPM, Monte dei Paschi di Siena, and BPER.
“I let you speculate what the view of the shareholders in … every one of the three situation is. But at the moment, it is fair to say that we have not seen… any opening for negotiating anything,” Orcel stated.
He explained the complexity of dealing with controlling shareholders: “When you have, let’s say, de facto controlling shareholders in those groups, they all want something, and landing to a situation where everybody’s happy is a lot more difficult than what we’re talking about here today.”
Regarding Monte dei Paschi specifically, Orcel described one situation as “more fluid” than others, noting that shareholders will soon select a new chief executive.
“It’s not exactly a moment where the next day they want to do something with someone else. There is a lag,” he observed.
Despite its Italian origins, Orcel emphasized UniCredit’s broader European vision. The bank CEO said UniCredit remains “very proud” of its Italian heritage, “but to a certain extent, these are roots that we have much expanded, okay? Our model of bank, our vision of where we want to go is pan-European.”
UniCredit currently operates across 13 European markets and already controls German bank HVB. The company’s interest in Commerzbank began before Orcel assumed leadership in 2021.
Italian government officials have expressed concerns that the country’s second-largest bank might diminish its Italian character and become overly German-focused through such a merger.
While the current Italian government has remained quiet about Orcel’s Commerzbank pursuit, sources indicate officials strongly oppose any potential move of UniCredit’s corporate headquarters to Germany. UniCredit has previously dismissed the possibility of such a relocation.
WASHINGTON, March 18 – The White House announced Wednesday that Chinese officials have consented to delaying President Donald Trump’s planned diplomatic visit to Beijing, which had been set to take place in the coming two weeks.
White House Spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt stated that the administration is actively working to establish a new timeline for the presidential visit at the earliest opportunity.
On Tuesday, Trump indicated he would make the Asian trip “about five or six weeks” from now, attributing the delay to pressures from the Iran war situation, though he did not provide a specific timeline.
When asked for comment, a representative from China’s Washington embassy emphasized the importance of high-level diplomatic engagement. “Head-of-state diplomacy plays an irreplaceable role in providing strategic guidance to bilateral relations,” the spokesperson stated. “China and the U.S. will continue to maintain communication on President Trump’s visit to China.”
Israeli aviation officials reported Wednesday that falling fragments from intercepted Iranian missiles caused significant damage to three privately-owned aircraft stationed at Ben Gurion Airport outside Tel Aviv.
The Israel Airports Authority announced that the aircraft sustained major damage from the missile debris, with the incidents taking place during recent days. Officials did not release information about who owns the affected planes.
Ben Gurion Airport has suspended regular commercial operations since late February following U.S.-Israeli military strikes against Iran on February 28, which prompted Iran to launch missiles toward Israel. Despite the suspension, Israeli airlines have continued operating special flights to bring home citizens stuck overseas.
The airport has also maintained some departing flights and continues serving as a hub for both Israeli and American military operations.
According to reports, approximately half of the Iranian missiles that penetrate Israeli airspace consist of cluster munitions designed to break apart during flight, releasing hundreds of smaller explosive devices across extensive areas.
WASHINGTON – America’s top intelligence official testified Wednesday that while Iran’s leadership has been significantly weakened by ongoing military operations, the regime continues to function and poses threats to U.S. interests across the Middle East.
Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard told senators during the annual Worldwide Threats hearing that Iran’s government “appears to be intact but largely degraded by Operation Epic Fury,” the joint U.S.-Israeli military operation that began February 28.
“Even so, Iran and its proxies remain capable of and continue to attack U.S. and allied interests in the Middle East. If a hostile regime survives, it will seek to begin a years-long effort to rebuild its missiles and UAV (drone) forces,” Gabbard stated in her prepared remarks to the Senate Intelligence Committee.
The congressional hearing centered on the three-week-old conflict, with both Republican and Democratic lawmakers seeking additional details about military operations that have resulted in thousands of casualties, displaced millions of civilians, and caused volatility in global energy and financial markets.
Democratic members have particularly criticized the Trump administration for insufficient congressional briefings about a war costing American taxpayers billions of dollars, pushing for public hearings instead of the classified sessions held over recent weeks.
Wednesday’s testimony from Gabbard and CIA Director John Ratcliffe also addressed the surprising resignation Tuesday of a key Gabbard deputy over the Iran conflict.
Joe Kent, who led the National Counterterrorism Center and maintains close ties to Gabbard, became the first senior Trump administration official to step down in protest of the war.
“I cannot in good conscience support the ongoing war in Iran. Iran posed no imminent threat to our nation, and it is clear that we started this war due to pressure from Israel and its powerful lobby,” Kent wrote in a resignation letter shared on social media.
White House officials dismissed Kent’s statements, calling his letter filled with “false claims.”
Gabbard’s intelligence assessment highlighted ongoing confusion about Iran’s nuclear capabilities. While some officials claimed before the conflict that Iran was close to weapons development, Gabbard said Wednesday that U.S. and Israeli strikes in June completely destroyed Iran’s uranium enrichment facilities, with no reconstruction efforts detected since.
Committee Chairman Tom Cotton, an Arkansas Republican, commended President Trump’s actions, arguing they have enhanced global security. Virginia Democrat Mark Warner, the panel’s ranking member, criticized the administration’s limited congressional consultation and questioned Gabbard’s focus on domestic election investigations while reducing staff monitoring Iranian activities.
Intelligence sources indicate Trump received warnings before authorizing strikes that Iran might retaliate against U.S. Gulf partners, despite his Monday claims that Tehran’s response surprised him. Officials also briefed the president that Iran would likely attempt to block the strategic Strait of Hormuz shipping lane.
The House Intelligence Committee will conduct its own worldwide threats hearing Thursday.
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks golf team concluded their recent tournament in Georgia with a 13th place finish, overcoming challenging weather conditions throughout the competition.
The young Hawks squad demonstrated resilience as they navigated through adverse weather that impacted play during the event. Despite the meteorological obstacles, the team managed to complete the tournament and secure their position among the competing schools.
The difficult playing conditions tested the Hawks’ ability to adapt their game strategy, but the team’s determination helped them push through to the final results. The experience provided valuable lessons for the developing program as they continue their season.
The Georgia tournament represents another step in the Hawks’ ongoing efforts to build their golf program and gain competitive experience against other collegiate teams in challenging environments.
Aviation authorities have implemented enhanced safety protocols governing aircraft operations in crowded airspace surrounding the nation’s busiest airports, according to new Federal Aviation Administration directives.
The updated regulations eliminate the practice of visual separation techniques between aircraft and helicopters operating in these high-density flight zones. This change represents a significant shift in how air traffic controllers manage the complex choreography of multiple aircraft types sharing the same airspace near major aviation hubs.
The new safety measures specifically target the congested flight corridors where commercial jets, private aircraft, and military helicopters frequently operate in close proximity. Under the previous system, controllers relied on visual confirmation to maintain safe distances between different types of aircraft.
These regulatory changes come as federal aviation officials continue examining safety protocols following recent aviation incidents that have raised concerns about aircraft separation procedures in busy metropolitan airspace.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel fired back at the Trump administration on Tuesday evening after President Trump indicated he could take any action he chooses regarding Cuba and hinted at possible “imminent action” against the Caribbean nation.
In a post on social media platform X, Díaz-Canel accused the Trump administration of making daily “public threats” to topple Cuba’s government, warning that any aggressive moves “will clash with an impregnable resistance.”
The Cuban leader’s sharp response followed recent aggressive statements from Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who declared that Cuba’s socialist economic system must “change dramatically.”
Cuba’s economy has been severely damaged by decades of American sanctions, even as the Cuban government maintains strict controls over private business operations within the country.
According to sources familiar with ongoing diplomatic discussions between Washington and Havana, the Trump administration wants Díaz-Canel removed from power as negotiations continue with Cuban officials. The sources requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of these talks.
The administration has not revealed who they would prefer to see leading Cuba instead.
These latest Cuban threats follow Trump’s recent military operations that resulted in the capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and the launch of military strikes against Iran.
The current administration has essentially stopped crucial oil shipments to Cuba, bringing the island nation to a critical economic breaking point.
The Cuban citizens that Trump and Rubio claim to support have suffered severe consequences from these policies.
International activist organizations delivered five tons of medical supplies and humanitarian aid to Cuba overnight, according to Cuban state media, as the island continues to struggle with widespread power outages.
WASHINGTON — Major setbacks hit the artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency sectors during this week’s Illinois primary elections, marking an early defeat for tech companies attempting to establish political dominance in midterm races and cement their status as influential forces in American governance.
These industries poured millions into Illinois Democratic primary contests, backing candidates they expected would favor minimal regulatory oversight of technologies that are transforming employment and financial management across the nation.
Through super PACs with unlimited spending authority, they launched television campaigns and distributed promotional materials that rarely mentioned their technological focus. The messaging instead emphasized opposition to President Donald Trump’s policies and support for progressive initiatives, mirroring tactics employed by organizations such as the American Israel Public Affairs Committee.
However, this indirect approach failed to prevent the AI and cryptocurrency sectors’ involvement from sparking controversy in Illinois’s contentious primaries, where an unusual number of vacant seats created highly competitive contests.
The cryptocurrency-supported political action committee Fairshake invested over $10 million targeting Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, who secured the Democratic nomination to replace Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill.
Both Fairshake and Protect Progress, another crypto-linked organization, invested additional millions backing Stratton’s primary opponents, U.S. Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi and Robin Kelly, without success, based on Federal Election Commission records.
Representatives from Fairshake and Protect Progress did not respond to comment requests.
Technology-backed organizations achieved varying outcomes in Illinois House primary races.
State Rep. La Shawn Ford, who previously endorsed state measures regulating AI and cryptocurrency sectors, secured the Democratic nomination to replace U.S. Rep. Danny Davis. Fairshake allocated nearly $2.5 million opposing Ford’s campaign in a contest where at least four additional political organizations spent funds against the progressive legislator or supporting his competitors.
Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller won the Democratic primary to succeed Kelly after Fairshake spent over $800,000 opposing state Rep. Robert Peters, another progressive supporter of cryptocurrency regulation legislation.
AI-supported spending created internal conflicts in that contest.
The AI-funded Think Big PAC contributed more than $1 million supporting Jesse Jackson Jr., a former congressman who admitted guilt in a 2013 fraud case. Jackson simultaneously faced approximately $1 million in opposition spending from Jobs and Democracy PAC, another AI-backed organization.
Both PACs declined to provide comments.
Think Big operates as a subsidiary of Leading the Future, funded by prominent Silicon Valley leaders including venture capitalist Marc Andreessen. Andreessen opposes federal AI regulations and strongly supports the Republican president’s AI agenda.
Jobs and Democracy PAC receives funding from AI company Anthropic, which supports certain safety regulations as AI technology advances. Both PACs targeted progressive candidates advocating for substantial technology regulations and increased taxation on wealthy individuals.
The substantial financial investments in Illinois races approached $20 million total, demonstrating both industries’ political aspirations and intensifying already heated primary competitions.
“Corporate money is being used to paint corporate-backed candidates as fearless progressives,” said Adam Green, co-founder of the Progressive Change Campaign Committee, a political group that works to elect anti-corporate progressives.
“The question for the Democratic Party is whether we elect people who actually believe in these positions or will we elect milquetoast candidates who give lip service to these values but don’t back them in actual policy,” Green said.
Campaign finance analysts and ordinary voters continue grappling with understanding the technology sector’s political impact.
“They’re so new to the game that public opinion isn’t very well formed about them,” said Brian Gaines, a political science professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. “You don’t get a clear signal for who is the progressive and who is the moderate on AI and crypto policies.”
“People are wary of the technology,” Gaines said, “but they don’t know what to think yet.”
WASHINGTON — Federal officials announced Wednesday they will expand visa bond requirements to include citizens from 12 additional nations, requiring deposits of up to $15,000 for U.S. visa applications.
Beginning April 2, individuals holding passports from Cambodia, Ethiopia, Georgia, Grenada, Lesotho, Mauritius, Mongolia, Mozambique, Nicaragua, Papua New Guinea, Seychelles and Tunisia must provide these financial guarantees when seeking American visas. The bonds are returned if visa requests are rejected or if approved travelers comply with their visa conditions.
This information was published on the State Department’s official website Wednesday.
Following the April implementation date, citizens from 50 nations will face these bond requirements. The Trump administration launched this program in recent years as part of broader efforts to address visa violations and reduce unauthorized immigration.
The initiative targets countries with elevated overstay statistics, particularly several African nations. Depending on individual situations and consular officer judgment, applicants must secure bonds valued at $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000.
“The visa bond program has already proven effective at drastically reducing the number of visa recipients who overstay their visas and illegally remain in the United States,” department officials stated, noting that nearly 97% of approximately 1,000 bond-posting individuals have complied with their visa terms.
Salisbury University’s athletics and recreation department launched a new initiative designed to boost career prospects for student-athletes and department staff members.
The university held its first-ever Career Combine on March 9, 2026, inside the Guerrieri Student Union as part of the newly established Sea Gull Leadership Academy (SGLA).
The event operated similarly to a traditional job fair, bringing together students with potential employers, representatives from graduate programs, and staff from the university’s career services office. Participants had the chance to learn about internship openings, seasonal work opportunities, and permanent positions while making valuable professional connections.
The program serves both varsity and club-level student-athletes as well as students employed within the athletics department, representing a fresh approach to career development within the university’s athletic programs.
WASHINGTON – Vice President JD Vance is expected to travel to Hungary within days to demonstrate backing for Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who confronts his most challenging re-election campaign since assuming power in 2010, according to two sources with knowledge of the arrangements disclosed Wednesday.
This journey would follow Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s February travel to Budapest, where he publicly endorsed Orban before his most difficult electoral contest to date. Current polling data indicates the Hungarian leader is behind with less than a month remaining before the April 12 election.
Sources warned that the specific dates for Vance’s trip remain unclear and could be modified, particularly as senior officials might choose to stay in Washington during the ongoing U.S.-Israeli military operations against Iran. President Donald Trump has already postponed his planned China visit due to the conflict.
The White House has not provided immediate response regarding this report.
Orban, among Trump’s strongest European allies, has maintained ongoing disputes with the European Union across multiple issues, particularly regarding Ukraine policy. Going against Brussels’ position, he has preserved friendly relations with Moscow, declined to provide military aid to Ukraine, and maintains that Kyiv cannot become an EU member.
Last month, Trump gave his endorsement to Orban, describing him as “a truly strong and powerful Leader” through social media, while many American conservative hardliners view him as an example for Trump’s strict immigration approach and Christian conservative values.
Trump has backed conservative politicians globally, recently supporting Argentina’s Javier Milei and Japan’s Sanae Takaichi.
Vance has become an influential vice president who frequently plays a key role in international policy matters. He is widely considered the leading candidate to succeed Trump in 2028.
During his Hungarian visit, Rubio stated that Orban’s governance was essential for American interests while suggesting that maintaining strong relationships depended on Orban winning re-election. He also hinted that Washington might provide financial assistance to Budapest if necessary.
As the campaign enters its final weeks, polling shows Orban’s Fidesz party behind the opposition Tisza party, headed by former government official Peter Magyar, although numerous voters have not made their decision.
This election occurs while Hungary deals with sluggish economic growth and ongoing effects from inflation increases following Russia’s February 2022 Ukraine invasion, and will significantly impact Europe as conservative and far-right political movements gain strength.
WASHINGTON – Federal regulators announced Wednesday they are allowing four international drone models to enter the U.S. market despite a comprehensive prohibition on foreign drone imports enacted in December.
The Federal Communications Commission’s decision came after Pentagon officials concluded that four specific drone types – the SiFly Aviation Q12, Mobilicom SkyHopper Series, ScoutDI Scout 137, and Verge X1 – present no threats to national security.
This marks the second round of exemptions granted by the FCC, which in January had already cleared certain international drone models and essential components for import through the conclusion of 2026. Notably, none of the newly approved drone models originate from Chinese manufacturers.
The United States is working to establish a partnership with Brazil focused on securing critical mineral supply chains, according to U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Gabriel Escobar, even as diplomatic relations between the two nations face significant challenges.
Escobar made the announcement Wednesday following the signing of a preliminary cooperation agreement with Brazil’s Goias state, just ahead of a U.S. embassy event connecting American investors with Brazilian companies involved in critical mineral production. Major firms including Citi and Anglo American participated in the gathering.
“We have a proposal for a deal at the federal level. We are discussing it, we had some preliminary discussions, but we’re still waiting,” Escobar stated during the event.
The push comes as America works urgently to secure access to critical mineral reserves, particularly rare earth elements that are currently controlled primarily by Chinese companies.
However, recent diplomatic friction has complicated these efforts. Brazilian officials withdrew from the embassy event after relations deteriorated when a hard-right U.S. official requested permission last week to visit former President Jair Bolsonaro in prison. Brazil viewed this as interference in its internal affairs and denied entry to the envoy, citing “falsification” of visit purposes.
Sources revealed to Reuters that Brazilian authorities received a memorandum of understanding proposal in February, though it initially contained errors including another country’s name before corrections were made.
Current negotiations involve the U.S. Trade Representative’s office and are being considered as part of a potential visit by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to Washington. However, an anticipated meeting between Lula and President Donald Trump scheduled for this month has been delayed due to the U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran and ongoing diplomatic tensions.
Brazilian officials privately expressed frustration over the U.S. decision to partner directly with Goias Governor Ronaldo Caiado, who opposes President Lula politically. One Brazilian official characterized this as an attempt to circumvent federal authority.
The Goias agreement establishes cooperation in multiple areas including mineral mapping, connecting local mining operations with American technology, and regulatory improvements, according to state government statements.
Goias possesses significant reserves of lithium and niobium, and hosts Serra Verde, the only company currently producing rare earths commercially in Brazil with U.S. backing.
State officials said the partnership aims to advance “value-added processing and manufacturing capabilities, including rare earth separation” within Goias.
Developing domestic processing capabilities remains a key priority for President Lula, according to a Brazilian foreign trade ministry official who spoke anonymously about ongoing negotiations.
American officials believe the potential exists for billions of dollars in investment and have identified over 50 Brazilian mining projects that could support international efforts to diversify supply chains and reduce China’s control over critical minerals.
Shares of advertising technology company Trade Desk experienced a significant decline Wednesday after reports surfaced that major French advertising agency Publicis Groupe recommended clients steer clear of the company’s media purchasing platform.
The stock dropped almost 6% during trading, building on Tuesday’s 7.4% decline following an Ad Age report detailing concerns from a Publicis audit. According to the report, the audit discovered that Trade Desk had breached several contract terms, leading to the negative client advisory.
The audit reportedly revealed that Trade Desk imposed fees beyond agreed-upon limits and enrolled clients in additional services without proper authorization, according to the publication’s sources.
Publicis Groupe has not provided comment on the matter when contacted by Reuters.
Trade Desk responded to the allegations in a statement, saying: “We’re aware of questions related to a Publicis audit process. Any notion that TTD failed an audit is not true.”
The company operates as an independent platform that allows brands and advertising agencies to purchase advertisements and manage campaigns across various websites and applications, differentiating itself from closed advertising systems like those operated by Google and Facebook.
Following the news, at least two investment firms reduced their stock ratings, while three others lowered their price projections for the company.
Stifel downgraded its recommendation from “buy” to “neutral,” stating: “We’re not quite sure how conservative current 2026 estimates might be if the company does, in fact, lose some of its client base as a result of this audit.”
The company has faced challenges recently, with its first-quarter revenue projections missing analyst expectations last month. Trade Desk shares have declined approximately 34% year-to-date, following a 68% drop in 2025.
The advertising technology firm confronts intense competition from integrated platforms that combine content, commerce, and user information to appeal to advertisers. Amazon’s advertising platform has emerged as a particularly strong competitor due to its extensive consumer purchasing data.
Rosenblatt Securities analyst Barton Crockett suggested that declining revenues might be driving advertising agencies toward more aggressive negotiations with Trade Desk and expansion into competing services.
“We see potential that this could be emblematic of a structural change,” Crockett noted.
The University of Delaware’s Department of Athletics, Community, and Campus Recreation partnered with state officials to mark National Girls and Women in Sports Day on Thursday, February 12.
The celebration took place in collaboration with Delaware’s Office of Women’s Advocacy and Advancement, which operates under the state’s Department of Human Resources.
The annual observance recognizes the achievements of female athletes and promotes continued participation of girls and women in athletic activities across all levels of competition.
SALISBURY, Md. — History enthusiasts and families will have the chance to step back in time at the highly anticipated Poplar Hill Mansion Festival on Sunday, May 3, 2026, running from noon until 4 p.m.
The annual celebration will transport visitors to Salisbury’s Federal Period past with War of 1812 historical reenactments, musical performances by the Chesapeake Independent Blues, and Bill Alexander showcasing the mansion’s authentic 1810 Joshua Thurston pianoforte. The Dover Dancers will provide traditional entertainment, while local historical organizations will present educational exhibits about the area’s heritage. Young visitors can participate in hands-on crafts, games, and activities, plus enjoy traditional May Day festivities around a decorated Maypole.
A unique highlight this year centers on bacon, drawing inspiration from fascinating mansion records. Historical documents from 1828 show the household maintained an impressive 1,400 pounds of bacon in storage, reflecting the agricultural and food preservation practices of that time period.
Paying tribute to this intriguing historical detail, the Big Bad Wolf Bacon Truck will serve tasty bacon-themed treats available for purchase during the festival.
Attendees can explore Market Square’s artisan vendors offering handmade goods and participate in mansion tours led by costumed interpreters throughout the afternoon.
“This festival is a wonderful way to connect with Salisbury’s heritage while enjoying a fun, family-friendly experience,” said Sarah Meyers, Poplar Hill Mansion Curator.
Admission to the festival costs nothing, with parking provided at Bethesda Methodist Church located at Division Street and Isabella Street in the historic Newtown Neighborhood.
Festival organizers will temporarily close Elizabeth Street between Route 13 and Division Street from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to accommodate the celebration. Motorists should expect detours and plan alternate routes during these hours.
Additional details are available at https://poplarhillmansion.org/events/.
Drivers using Whitesville Road should plan for extra travel time this afternoon as construction crews continue their work in the area.
Traffic is currently being controlled by flagging personnel along the stretch of Whitesville Road that runs between Line Church Road and Whaleys Road. The flagging operation is scheduled to remain in place until 3:30 PM today.
Motorists are advised to allow additional time for their commute and exercise caution when traveling through the construction zone. Drivers should follow the directions of traffic control personnel and maintain safe following distances while navigating the work area.
Venezuela has proclaimed Wednesday a national holiday after securing its inaugural World Baseball Classic championship, following a thrilling 3-2 triumph against the United States at Miami’s LoanDepot Park on Tuesday.
Acting President Delcy Rodriguez announced the nationwide work suspension on Wednesday, though essential service employees remained on duty.
Educational authorities released a statement confirming the cancellation of classes across the country in honor of the landmark victory.
The Venezuelan squad’s championship path featured a dramatic comeback win against defending titleholders Japan during the quarter-final round, followed by a solid performance defeating surprise semi-final contenders Italy, before ultimately prevailing over the U.S. team in front of an enthusiastic, predominantly Venezuelan crowd in Miami.
“We made history today; we made it happen,” store owner Elio Davila shared with Reuters during exuberant festivities featuring banners, whistles, horns, and salsa rhythms in a crowded plaza in central Caracas packed with hundreds of supporters.
The championship “is a source of national pride that will last forever,” remarked art student Yolanda Pantoja.
Miami Dolphins officials have notified interested teams that running back De’Von Achane will not be available for trade, according to an ESPN report released Wednesday.
The franchise has completely restructured its offensive roster during the offseason with new head coach Jeff Hafley and newly appointed general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan at the helm, moving on from established players including quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and receivers Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill through trades and releases.
However, the 24-year-old Achane, who will complete his rookie deal this upcoming season, has been exempted from the organizational shake-up, according to the report.
The running back is anticipated to serve as a central figure in Miami’s offense, working with newly acquired quarterback Malik Willis under the guidance of offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik.
Selected in the third round of the 2023 draft, Achane achieved personal bests last season with 1,350 rushing yards, ranking fifth league-wide, along with eight rushing touchdowns while earning his inaugural Pro Bowl selection. His 5.7 yards per rushing attempt led all NFL players, and he contributed an additional 67 receptions for 488 receiving yards and four receiving scores across 16 starting appearances.
Throughout his professional career spanning 44 games with 36 starts, Achane has accumulated 4,334 total yards and 35 touchdowns. He has surpassed the 100-yard rushing mark on 10 occasions, with his standout performance coming as a rookie when he gained 203 yards and scored four touchdowns in Miami’s dominant 70-20 victory over Denver.
MOSCOW – Russia’s state communications oversight agency declared Wednesday that the widely-used Telegram messaging platform continues to violate the country’s regulations, according to reports from the state-operated RIA news service.
Officials in Moscow have consistently charged Telegram, which ranks among Russia’s most widely-adopted messaging applications, with permitting its platform to host unlawful and radical material.
The messaging service disputes these allegations and has countered that Russian officials are deliberately slowing down its operations in an effort to push users toward MAX, a government-controlled messaging application.
WASHINGTON – American manufacturing orders experienced minimal growth during January, climbing just 0.1% as declining transportation equipment purchases counterbalanced improvements in other sectors, according to Wednesday’s government report.
The Commerce Department’s Census Bureau revealed that factory orders increased slightly following a revised December decline of 0.4%. Economists had anticipated this modest uptick. December’s figures were initially reported as a steeper 0.7% drop but were later adjusted. Compared to the same period last year, January orders jumped 3.5%.
Data releases continue to experience delays as the Census Bureau works to catch up following disruptions from last year’s government shutdown.
The manufacturing sector, representing 10.1% of the nation’s economy, continues struggling under the impact of President Trump’s extensive tariff policies. Additional cost burdens stem from the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, which has driven oil prices up more than 40%.
Trump maintains his defense of the tariff measures, despite Supreme Court challenges, arguing they’re essential for protecting American manufacturing. However, approximately 100,000 factory positions have disappeared since January 2025.
While increased oil and gas drilling activity could potentially boost manufacturing due to higher energy prices, economists believe any investment benefits would likely prove inadequate to counteract the negative effects of costlier energy products. Such improvements may also take considerable time to impact the broader economy.
January’s factory order gains were driven by increased demand for machinery and primary metals, along with computers and electronic products – likely connected to artificial intelligence investment expansion.
However, electrical equipment, appliances and components saw orders drop 0.6%, while transportation equipment fell 0.8% as defense aircraft and parts demand plummeted 23.8%.
The Census Bureau additionally reported that non-defense capital goods orders excluding aircraft – considered an indicator of business equipment spending intentions – rose 0.1% in January rather than remaining flat as initially reported last week.
Shipments of these core capital goods decreased 0.1% as previously stated. Business equipment spending decelerated during the fourth quarter, contributing to gross domestic product growth slowing to a 0.7% annualized rate, down from the third quarter’s 4.4% pace.
President Trump has temporarily suspended enforcement of the Jones Act, a maritime shipping regulation, as part of his administration’s strategy to address rising gasoline costs across the nation.
The century-old federal law typically requires that cargo transported between American ports be carried on vessels that are U.S.-built, U.S.-owned, and operated by American crews. By waiving these restrictions, the administration aims to increase fuel supply options and potentially reduce costs for consumers.
However, industry analysts remain skeptical about the measure’s effectiveness in creating substantial relief at gas stations nationwide. Many experts believe the temporary suspension will have minimal impact on the dramatic price fluctuations that drivers have been experiencing.
The Jones Act has been temporarily waived during previous national emergencies and supply disruptions, but this marks a notable use of the presidential waiver authority specifically targeting fuel price concerns.
The administration has not specified how long the suspension will remain in effect, though such waivers are typically implemented for limited periods while market conditions are monitored.
Delaware Department of Transportation crews are actively working to repair potholes along northbound Interstate 95 today as part of an ongoing mobile repair operation.
The pothole repair work is expected to continue through 3 PM this afternoon. Motorists traveling on I-95 north should expect possible delays and lane restrictions as crews move along the highway conducting the repairs.
DelDOT regularly conducts these rolling repair operations to address road surface issues and maintain highway safety for drivers.
Motorists traveling through Wilmington today will encounter lane restrictions on a busy stretch of Washington Street due to ongoing construction work.
DelDOT reports that the right lane of northbound Washington Street is currently blocked between 14th Street and 16th Street. The closure is scheduled to remain in effect until 3 PM this afternoon.
Drivers are advised to allow extra time for their commute and use caution when traveling through the work zone. Traffic may be slower than usual as vehicles merge from the closed lane.
Delaware car shoppers typically focus on what fits their budget when browsing for vehicles, usually leading them toward mainstream brands despite many harboring dreams of luxury car ownership. However, automotive specialists suggest an alternative approach worth considering: trading that new mainstream vehicle for a pre-owned luxury model at a comparable price point.
Consider this scenario: instead of purchasing a 2026 Honda CR-V for approximately $35,000, buyers could opt for a three-year-old BMW X3 at a similar cost. While the X3 carries more prestige and appeal, automotive analysts at Edmunds have examined whether choosing pre-owned luxury represents a wise financial decision.
Fresh-off-the-lot vehicles deliver an untouched condition, original ownership status, and that distinctive new car atmosphere. They also come with comprehensive manufacturer protection, usually including three years of complete coverage plus two additional years for major mechanical components.
Pre-owned luxury vehicles will have lost that new car appeal, showing minor wear and displaying significant mileage. Though luxury manufacturers often provide four-year comprehensive warranties, and luxury dealers frequently offer certified pre-owned programs with inspections and extended protection, purchasing new ensures the most current vehicle available.
Winner: new car
Luxury automobiles aim to inspire desire, featuring superior interior materials, refined styling, and enhanced driving dynamics compared to standard models. Distinctive wheel designs and upgraded aesthetics help luxury cars stand out, while more robust engines provide superior acceleration. A 2023 BMW X3 delivering up to 382 horsepower clearly offers more excitement and engagement than a CR-V.
Enhanced performance often sacrifices fuel economy. The most efficient 2023 X3 achieves EPA-rated 25 mpg combined, while the CR-V’s available hybrid system reaches 40 mpg combined. Many luxury powertrains also demand costly premium gasoline, adding to ownership expenses. However, for those seeking style and performance, luxury vehicles deliver on these expectations.
Winner: used luxury
Contemporary vehicles feature cutting-edge technology, including expansive touchscreen displays and sophisticated driver assistance systems that simplify operation. These innovations typically appear first on luxury models before becoming available on mainstream vehicles. Both a pre-owned BMW X3 and new Honda CR-V offer wireless connectivity for smartphone integration, wireless charging capabilities, and adaptive cruise control.
Pre-owned luxury vehicles can provide advantages for technology enthusiasts. A used X3 might include front seats with enhanced power adjustments, ventilated seating, a premium 16-speaker sound system, and heads-up display technology. Honda doesn’t provide these features on the CR-V. Selecting a recently manufactured luxury vehicle means avoiding technology compromises while gaining premium amenities unavailable in newer mainstream cars.
Winner: used luxury
New car purchases prioritize convenience. Most fresh vehicles require minimal maintenance during initial years, typically needing only oil changes and tire rotations. Warranty coverage handles necessary repairs at no cost.
Conversely, pre-owned luxury vehicles often demand expensive maintenance for components like braking systems and fluids. Parts costs and labor charges run higher for luxury brands. Edmunds projects that BMW X3 maintenance will cost roughly double that of a Honda CR-V on average.
Pre-owned luxury purchases help buyers avoid the steepest depreciation period. New vehicles commonly retain only 60% to 80% of original value after three years of ownership. Depreciation typically moderates after the initial three-year period. Nevertheless, used luxury vehicles will likely generate higher annual ownership and operating costs.
Winner: new car
New vehicle purchases represent the practical choice, offering complete manufacturer warranty coverage and guaranteed first ownership. However, automotive decisions involve emotional factors alongside logical considerations. For buyers who fantasize about premium leather and powerful engines, pre-owned luxury vehicles present a completely reasonable alternative.
This automotive analysis was contributed by Dan Frio from Edmunds and provided through The Associated Press.
WASHINGTON — The Treasury Department announced Wednesday that American businesses can now engage with Venezuela’s government-owned petroleum company under relaxed sanctions, as the Trump administration searches for methods to increase global oil availability amid the conflict with Iran.
Treasury officials granted broad permission for Petróleos de Venezuela S.A. (PDVSA) to market Venezuelan crude directly to American firms and international buyers, marking a dramatic policy reversal after years of Washington blocking most commercial activity with Venezuela’s administration and energy industry.
Additionally, the White House announced Trump will suspend Jones Act provisions for 60 days, eliminating requirements that cargo between American ports travel on U.S.-registered ships. This Depression-era legislation, created to safeguard domestic shipbuilding interests, is frequently cited as contributing to higher fuel costs.
These policy changes underscore mounting pressure on the Republican government to address climbing oil costs as America and Israel continue military operations against Iran with no clear conclusion in sight. International petroleum prices have surged after Iran blocked shipping through the critical Strait of Hormuz, a waterway that typically handles one-fifth of global oil exports from the Persian Gulf region.
The Treasury’s authorization aims to encourage fresh investment in Venezuela’s energy infrastructure and benefit both nations while expanding worldwide oil availability, according to a Treasury representative who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.
Following Nicolás Maduro’s removal and detention during a U.S. military intervention in January, President Trump declared America would essentially ‘manage’ Venezuela and market its petroleum resources.
The Treasury’s new authorization offers selective sanctions relief without completely removing penalties. Companies established before January 29, 2025, may now purchase Venezuelan oil and conduct previously prohibited transactions, reopening global market access for this significant oil producer.
However, restrictions remain in place.
Revenue cannot flow directly to sanctioned Venezuelan organizations like PDVSA, but must instead go to a designated U.S.-supervised account. Essentially, America will permit oil commerce while maintaining financial oversight.
Furthermore, agreements involving Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, and certain Chinese companies remain prohibited. Venezuelan debt or bond transactions also stay banned.
This authorization should significantly strengthen Venezuela’s petroleum-reliant economy and encourage hesitant investors. The decision represents part of the Trump administration’s gradual strategy to rehabilitate Venezuela. However, critics of the interim Venezuelan leadership contend this policy rewards Venezuelan officials — all remaining loyal to Maduro and his political party — despite ongoing oppression, corruption, and human rights violations.
Most government employees earn approximately $160 monthly, while average private sector workers made about $237 last year, as annual inflation reached 475% according to Venezuela’s central bank, pushing food prices beyond many citizens’ reach.
Venezuela possesses the planet’s largest proven oil reserves, which previously fueled Latin America’s most robust economy. Yet corruption, poor management, and American economic penalties caused output to plummet from 3.5 million barrels daily in 1999 when Maduro’s predecessor Hugo Chávez assumed leadership, to under 400,000 barrels daily by 2020.
Previously, the Treasury Department during Trump’s first term excluded Venezuela from international oil markets by sanctioning PDVSA as punishment for Maduro’s administration’s corrupt, undemocratic, and criminal behavior. This forced the government to sell remaining production at steep discounts — roughly 40% below market value — to purchasers like China and other Asian buyers. Venezuela even began accepting Russian rubles, bartered merchandise, or digital currencies as payment.
The updated authorization prohibits payments in gold or cryptocurrency, including the petro, a digital token Venezuela’s government launched in 2018.
CAIRO (AP) — Already earning less than $100 monthly to support his family, Sayyed Ragheb now faces an even tougher financial situation following Egypt’s decision to increase fuel costs amid regional warfare.
The father of four children who attend school picks up work at coffee shops and construction sites to make ends meet. With meat and vegetable costs spiking in recent days, he’s concerned about providing for his family’s essential needs.
“This means a price increase for everything,” Ragheb commented while serving beverages at a Cairo coffee shop during a recent evening shift. “This is catastrophic for someone like me.”
Among Middle Eastern nations, Egypt remains one of the few countries not directly impacted by the ongoing conflict, which has entered its third week with no resolution in sight. The country isn’t participating in the U.S.-Israeli military operations against Iran, nor has it faced Iranian missile attacks like Gulf states or Israeli strikes like Lebanon.
However, the nation’s 108 million residents are experiencing indirect consequences from the fighting. Rising energy costs have compelled officials to dramatically increase prices for government-subsidized fuel and cooking gas.
This price adjustment is creating a cascading impact throughout Egypt’s already weakened economy. The timing is particularly challenging as it coincides with Ramadan, when families typically host large evening meals, and precedes Eid al-Fitr celebrations, a significant shopping period for new clothing, particularly children’s garments.
Global energy costs have climbed sharply since U.S. and Israeli forces began their campaign on February 28. Iran responded by targeting oil and gas facilities throughout the Persian Gulf region and essentially halting passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a waterway handling one-fifth of global oil trade.
Brent crude prices jumped from under $70 per barrel on February 27 to nearly $120 by early March 9. Wednesday’s trading showed prices around $104.
This increase particularly burdens Egypt since the government allocates substantial portions of its already tight budget to subsidize gasoline, fuel, and electricity costs.
Energy expenses aren’t the country’s sole concern.
Suez Canal revenue, a crucial government income source, had begun recovering following two years of Houthi rebel attacks on Red Sea shipping routes. However, some shipping companies are once again avoiding Middle Eastern routes due to current instability, with officials anticipating additional financial losses.
Egypt’s tourism industry, which generates significant foreign currency from visitors to ancient pyramid sites, expects dramatic decreases as travelers avoid the region.
Should the conflict continue driving up costs while reducing government income, short-term economic difficulties could evolve into broader political and economic turmoil, according to Alexandra Blackman, a Cornell University Middle East politics specialist.
“That will be more challenging for the regime to manage and control,” she explained.
Government officials announced March 10 price increases of 15% for gasoline, 22% for cooking gas, and 17% for diesel fuel commonly used in commercial and public transportation.
President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi recognized the burden on citizens but described the increases as “inevitable” and “the least expensive” approach to safeguard the economy.
“The requirements of the reality sometimes necessitate taking difficult measures … to avert harsher options and more serious consequences,” el-Sissi stated during a weekend Iftar gathering, the daily meal breaking Ramadan’s sunrise-to-sunset fast.
He noted that Egypt’s annual oil product consumption costs $20 billion, including fuel for power plant operations.
According to Petroleum Minister Karim Badawy, the government must import 28% of gasoline requirements and 45% of diesel needs, creating budget strain.
Officials announced several measures to reduce impact, including cutting official international travel and limiting fuel use across government departments. Salary increases beginning in July were also announced.
Egypt’s lower and middle-income populations have already experienced reduced buying power over the past decade due to government cost-cutting policies. These included subsidy reductions and currency devaluation as components of a comprehensive 2016 reform initiative.
Official data shows inflation rose from 10% in January to 11.5% in February this year. Price increases are spreading throughout the economy in a nation where government statistics indicate one-third of residents live below the poverty threshold.
Following the new fuel pricing implementation, meat costs have increased 25% while fruits and vegetables rose 15-30%, according to vendors at three Cairo marketplaces.
Hussein Rashad, who operates a grocery store in a lower-income neighborhood, reports customers have become more choosy, with most reducing vegetable purchases. Some have eliminated fruit buying entirely, he noted.
“Many things have become out of their reach,” he observed.
Ragheb, the coffee shop employee, explained his family has restricted spending, including switching to the most affordable food basics. He won’t purchase new clothing for his children for the approaching Eid celebration.
PARIS (AP) — President Donald Trump’s transactional approach to foreign policy is hitting a wall as European allies refuse his demands for military assistance in the Iran conflict. Trump’s message to longtime partners has been simple: after decades of American security protection, it’s time for them to return the favor.
The widespread rejections suggest Trump’s diplomatic capital with European nations has reached dangerously low levels. Since his return to office, the president has antagonized allies through aggressive tactics on trade tariffs, territorial demands regarding Greenland, and controversial statements minimizing their military contributions in Afghanistan.
Trump is now insisting — rather than simply asking — that allied nations deploy naval vessels to assist American efforts in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, the critical waterway that handles one-fifth of global oil trade. Essentially, he wants them to help clean up what many view as a Middle Eastern crisis sparked by Trump and Israeli actions.
French defense expert François Heisbourg characterized the allied response as a “global raspberry.”
Not a single major ally has offered immediate military support. The United Kingdom has categorically declined involvement in the conflict. France insists hostilities must cease before any naval mission begins. Other nations remain uncommitted, while China has completely ignored Trump’s appeals for assistance.
European Union foreign policy leader Kaja Kallas stated plainly on Tuesday: “This is not Europe’s war. We didn’t start the war. We were not consulted.”
Trump has expressed particular frustration with Britain’s refusal. Despite Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s efforts to build rapport with the Trump administration and secure early trade agreements, the UK remains among the nations declining to participate in a regional conflict without clear objectives.
Describing Britain’s traditional role, Trump commented Monday: “The U.K. was sort of considered the Rolls-Royce of allies,” noting he had specifically requested British minesweeping vessels.
“I was not happy with the U.K,” Trump declared. “They should be involved enthusiastically. We’ve been protecting these countries for years.”
Starmer responded that Britain “will not be drawn into the wider war” and emphasized that deploying British forces requires international legal backing and “a proper thought-through plan” — implying these elements are currently absent.
Initially, Starmer blocked American bombers from using British bases for Iran strikes, though he later permitted their use for targeted attacks on Iran’s missile capabilities.
Former U.S. Army Europe commander Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges (retired) observed that allies are “looking at the United States in a way that they never have before. And this is bad for the United States.”
He noted that European leaders who previously tried to appease Trump are “starting to realize that there’s no benefit or value in using flattery.”
Trump’s decision to initiate military action without allied consultation aligns with his America-first philosophy.
“My attitude is: We don’t need anybody. We’re the strongest nation in the world,” he stated Monday.
However, the absence of international authorization — unlike the broad coalition assembled for the 1990 Gulf War — is creating diplomatic blowback.
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius explained: “It is not our war; we did not start it. We want diplomatic solutions and a swift end to the conflict. Sending more warships to the region will certainly not contribute to that.”
French President Emmanuel Macron has suggested possible naval escort missions in the Strait of Hormuz — but only after combat operations conclude.
“France didn’t choose this war. We’re not taking part,” Macron declared.
Following contentious tariff disputes in Trump’s previous term, early 2026 has brought additional alliance strain. Trump’s renewed push for American control over Greenland, including tariff threats against eight European countries, combined with his false claims about allied combat participation in Afghanistan, has further damaged NATO relationships.
Former French diplomat Sylvie Bermann, who served as ambassador to China, Britain, and Russia, explained: “Allies, or at least the Europeans, aren’t willing to be at the beck and call of a demand from Donald Trump.”
“And even in asking for a helping hand, he is doing so in a brutal manner, saying: ‘You’re useless, we’re the strongest, we don’t need you, but come,’” she added.
Naval experts warn that forcing military escorts through the Strait of Hormuz during active warfare without Iranian agreement would be extremely hazardous.
France has positioned its Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier in the Mediterranean and is coordinating with other nations to prepare escort missions once aerial combat subsides. French military spokesperson Col. Guillaume Vernet emphasized that any escort operations would require negotiations with Iran, and Macron has conducted two phone conversations with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian within eight days.
This diplomatic engagement has earned Trump’s approval.
“On a scale of zero to 10, I’d say he’s been an eight,” Trump said Monday regarding Macron. “Not perfect, but it’s France. We don’t expect perfect.”
However, Trump remains angry with other allies.
“We will protect them, but they will do nothing for us, in particular, in a time of need,” Trump complained Tuesday.
European and Asian allies depend on Middle Eastern oil, gas, and other commodities, giving Trump some negotiating power.
Past experience has also shown that opposing Trump can trigger retaliatory measures.
“It really could be anything. Are the Europeans prepared for that?” questioned Ed Arnold, a former British military officer now researching at London’s Royal United Services Institute.
European nations need continued American support for Ukraine, including weapons, intelligence, and financial pressure on Russia. The U.S. has begun relaxing some Russian sanctions by temporarily permitting oil shipments to address shortages caused by the Iran conflict. Allies also want Trump’s involvement in peace negotiations.
Amanda Sloat, a former U.S. national security adviser now teaching at Spain’s IE University, noted: “That was what kept European leaders quiet for a lot of last year in the face of the rhetoric and actions.”
“It is also the thing that is making them a little bit nervous now.”
NEW YORK — While Americans continue to love French bulldogs, retrievers and German shepherds, wiener dogs are becoming the new favorites across the nation.
The American Kennel Club announced Wednesday that dachshunds have entered the top five most popular dog breeds for the first time in more than 20 years. The organization’s annual rankings examine 202 breeds based on purebred puppies and adult dogs registered with the AKC during the previous year.
The rankings don’t represent the complete picture of America’s dog population, which veterinary medical experts estimate exceeds 87 million animals. Mixed breeds and popular designer dogs like goldendoodles and Pomskies aren’t included in the kennel club’s voluntary registration system.
Nevertheless, the yearly rankings generate excitement and sometimes worry among purebred dog enthusiasts.
Animal welfare organizations like PETA have criticized the list, with the group currently pursuing legal action against the AKC regarding breed standards for French bulldogs, dachshunds and other breeds they claim promote unhealthy physical characteristics.
The current top 10 breakdown shows some interesting trends:
French bulldogs continue leading the pack since claiming the top spot in 2023, though their dominance may be weakening. Last year’s registrations totaled approximately 54,000 Frenchies, representing a 50% decrease from 2023 numbers. While these dogs are celebrated for their confident personalities, apartment-suitable size and entertaining nature, growing concerns about flat-faced breed health issues have sparked public debate. AKC representative Brandi Hunter Munden suggests the decline might reflect natural breed popularity cycles and varying breeder participation rather than health concerns alone.
Labrador retrievers, which dominated the rankings for a record-breaking 31 years, maintain their runner-up position and could potentially reclaim their crown.
Golden retrievers hold steady in third place with their universal appeal, followed by German shepherds in fourth, earning widespread respect from dog lovers.
Dachshunds round out the top five, gaining significant social media attention, particularly during Halloween season when costume photos go viral.
The remaining top 10 includes poodles, beagles, Rottweilers, German shorthaired pointers, and bulldogs. Notably, beagles represent the only breed appearing in every decade’s top 10 since the AKC’s 1884 founding.
Historical perspective shows dramatic shifts in breed preferences. Yorkshire terriers ranked sixth 25 years ago while French bulldogs sat at 64th place. Saint Bernards held seventh position 50 years ago but dropped to 63rd last year. Looking back a century, German shepherds, beagles and bulldogs from the 1920s top 10 remain popular today.
Regarding dachshunds’ surge in popularity, longtime breeder and owner Trudy Kawami, who has worked with the breed since the 1980s, explained their appeal: “They’re amusing to look at. They’re also very expressive dogs — they let you know what they’re thinking. They make you laugh every day.”
However, Kawami warns potential owners about breed-specific challenges. Research indicates these short-legged, elongated dogs face higher risks of spinal problems. Originally developed for badger hunting, dachshunds possess strong prey drives and vocal tendencies, requiring appropriate outlets for their instincts through hunting activities or dog sports.
Kawami expressed mixed feelings about social media’s role in the breed’s popularity: “The proliferation of cute images on social media now is kind of a pain — because that cute little fluffy, cream-colored, long-haired dog can turn around and kill your pet gerbil really fast.” She worries that increased popularity triggers problematic breeding practices driven by market demand.
The AKC has recognized over 50 new breeds since 2000, with some achieving rapid popularity. The cane corso now ranks 11th overall, while the coton de tulear jumped from 92nd to 79th place, and the American hairless terrier climbed from 125th to 108th position.
The rarest registered breeds include recent additions like the grand basset griffon Vendeen, sloughi, and Norwegian lundehund, all recognized within the past 15 years. Surprisingly, the harrier breed, despite AKC recognition since 1885, ranks among the least common.
PETA maintains that purebred breeding reduces shelter dog adoption chances and perpetuates harmful genetic traits. Their 2023 lawsuit alleges the AKC promotes “the breeding of deformed, unhealthy dogs,” which the kennel club dismisses as frivolous while emphasizing their health commitment.
Supporting their campaign, PETA released videos featuring comedian Carol Leifer highlighting breathing difficulties in flat-faced breeds. “Breeders cash in on the look, and the dogs and their guardians pay for it,” Leifer states.
Hunter Munden clarified that the rankings serve public interest rather than purchase encouragement. “No matter how you acquire your dog, do your research and make sure that a dog fits in your lifestyle,” advised the spokesperson, who owns two mixed-breed dogs and a West Highland white terrier.
After a stretch of below-normal temperatures, conditions across the Delmarva Peninsula are set to gradually improve heading into the end of the week and the upcoming weekend. However, this warming trend will come with a few weak weather systems bringing occasional chances for light rain before cooler air returns early next week.
Through Thursday, quiet weather will dominate the region. Expect a mix of clouds and dry conditions, with temperatures remaining below average for mid-March.
A transition begins Thursday as a warm front lifts northward across Delmarva. This will allow temperatures to rebound closer to seasonal norms, rising roughly 7 to 10 degrees compared to midweek levels. Despite the warming trend, this system is not expected to produce any precipitation locally.
By Thursday night, a weak cold front passes to the north of the region. While this system may bring light rain and even some snow well north and west of the I-95 corridor, Delmarva will likely only see minimal impacts, with perhaps a spotty shower at most.
The warming trend continues into Friday as that boundary lifts back north. Temperatures will climb a few degrees higher, with another weak system approaching Friday night. This could bring a slight chance of light rain, but once again, the better chances for measurable precipitation appear to stay north and west of the peninsula.
Heading into the weekend, warmer air becomes more firmly established. By Saturday and especially Sunday, much of Delmarva is expected to see temperatures rise into the middle to upper 60s, providing a noticeable break from the recent chill.
The next more organized system arrives late Sunday into Sunday night, as a cold front pushes through the region. This will bring a better chance for scattered showers across Delmarva before moving offshore.
Behind this front, cooler and drier air returns to start the new week. Temperatures will fall back to more seasonable levels on Monday, with a reinforcing push of colder Canadian high pressure arriving by Tuesday. This will bring another period of below-normal temperatures to the region.
Overall, the pattern remains relatively quiet, with no significant storms expected, but periodic light rain chances and temperature swings will define the forecast over the next several days.
An enigmatic flower designer operating under the name “Mr. Flower Fantastic” has transformed the New York Botanical Garden with a stunning new exhibition celebrating the city through orchid arrangements.
The anonymous artist, who transitioned from street graffiti to floral design, has created what he describes as a tribute to New York City using elaborate orchid displays. However, there’s an ironic twist to his artistic journey – the designer suffers from severe allergies to the very flowers he works with.
Due to his condition, Mr. Flower Fantastic must don protective equipment including a gas mask and gloves while creating his botanical masterpieces. Despite this challenge, he has managed to establish himself as a notable figure in the floral design world while maintaining complete anonymity about his true identity.
The current exhibition showcases his unique vision of honoring New York City through carefully crafted orchid installations, blending his urban art background with his newfound passion for floral arrangement.
A high-ranking Iranian government official who helped orchestrate a deadly response to anti-government demonstrations has reportedly been killed in an Israeli military strike.
Ali Larijani, who served as an adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader and held the position of secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, was reportedly killed Monday evening, March 16, during Israeli attacks. Gholamreza Soleimani, who led the IRGC Basij force, also died in the same strikes, according to reports. Initially, there was confusion about whether Larijani had survived the attack, with official confirmation and details about his death remaining unclear.
Larijani had been instrumental in directing the violent suppression of widespread anti-government protests that erupted in January 2026. His leadership during that crackdown led to the deaths of thousands of Iranian citizens and resulted in deadly force being authorized against demonstrators. Estimates suggest between 10,000 and 31,000 Iranians lost their lives during the violence, with the heaviest casualties occurring on January 8 and 9.
The 67-year-old official was born in Najaf, Iraq, in 1957 to an influential Iranian religious family. He completed his education at the University of Tehran, where he focused on philosophy and Western philosophical traditions. This educational foundation helped establish his reputation as one of Iran’s more scholarly political figures, someone who could navigate both Islamic doctrine and broader intellectual concepts.
Larijani’s government career began after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, when he joined Iran’s developing political institutions. From 1994 to 2004, he directed Iran’s state broadcasting network (IRIB), controlling a crucial government communication channel during a time of domestic reform movements and international conflicts.
He subsequently took on the roles of Supreme National Security Council secretary and Iran’s primary nuclear negotiator, positioning him at the heart of the country’s most critical policy decisions. His time in these roles came during intense international examination of Iran’s nuclear activities, and observers often characterized his methods as resolute yet strategic, showing both ideological dedication and awareness of diplomatic limitations.
Between 2008 and 2020, Larijani held the position of Parliament speaker (Majlis), representing one of Iran’s most powerful government roles. Throughout this time, he established himself as a practical conservative, frequently serving as a connection point between hardline and moderate political groups. He significantly supported the 2015 nuclear deal, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, sometimes working alongside President Hassan Rouhani’s administration despite political divisions.
While some colleagues viewed Larijani as comparatively moderate, he took an uncompromising stance when the government faced domestic opposition, directly supporting Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. He was identified as one of the first senior officials to advocate using force against January 2026 protesters, leading to a crackdown with casualties numbering in the thousands.
His involvement in suppressing civilian demonstrations resulted in U.S. sanctions. On January 15, one week after the latest violent crackdown started, Washington imposed penalties on Larijani, charging him with “coordinating the suppression of protests and issuing orders for the use of force against protesters” in his council secretary capacity. The actions he endorsed were designed to stop what officials called “domestic unrest” and protect the Islamic Republic’s stability.
Larijani’s death creates a substantial leadership void in Iran, where he had functioned as the second-most influential figure following the now-deceased supreme leader. The recently appointed supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has been largely unavailable, both because he must remain hidden during wartime and due to reports of serious injuries from an airstrike.
During this leadership absence, Larijani was commonly viewed as overseeing the regime’s daily functions, including implementing severe actions against protesters and political opponents. Eliminating Larijani represents a significant strategic action that may not completely overthrow the government but will certainly weaken it and raises questions about who will lead Iran while the conflict continues.
The Treasury Department announced Wednesday that it has granted authorization for specific business transactions involving Venezuela’s government-owned petroleum corporation PDVSA.
This reversal of restrictions originally implemented by President Donald Trump in 2019 during his previous administration represents the most recent step by the current government to reduce penalties against Venezuela following the seizure of President Nicolas Maduro by American forces in January.
The full consequences of this authorization remain unclear, as Venezuela’s petroleum sales are currently under U.S. management, with earnings placed into American-controlled bank accounts before being allocated to Venezuela’s temporary government.
Trump aims to attract energy corporations to invest $100 billion into Venezuela’s deteriorating petroleum industry, which has been damaged by decades of poor maintenance, fraudulent practices, and American economic penalties.
Cybersecurity experts announced Wednesday they have identified malicious software that can break into Apple iPhones and extract sensitive information, potentially affecting hundreds of millions of devices worldwide.
The malware, which researchers have named “Darksword,” was found embedded on multiple Ukrainian websites in recent weeks. This represents the second major iPhone spyware discovery this month, indicating a growing market for sophisticated hacking tools designed to steal personal data and digital currency wallet information.
Three cybersecurity organizations – Lookout, iVerify, and Google – worked together to analyze the threat. Earlier this month on March 3, the same teams identified another iPhone spyware called “Coruna,” and investigators found both malicious programs operating from identical server infrastructure.
“There’s now a verified pipeline of recent exploits … that have ended up in the hands of potentially criminal entities with a financial focus,” stated Justin Albrecht, who serves as principal researcher at Lookout.
The malicious software specifically targets iPhones operating iOS versions 18.4 through 18.6.2, which Apple distributed between March and August of this year. Users became infected when they visited compromised Ukrainian websites.
While the exact number of vulnerable devices remains unknown, security experts estimate that between 220 million and 270 million iPhones could be at risk. Although Apple has issued security patches to address the underlying vulnerabilities, many users have not updated their devices to the latest software versions.
Apple has not provided a response to requests for comment regarding the discovery.
The identification of two separate powerful iPhone exploits within the same month suggests criminals now have access to hacking tools that were once exclusively available to government intelligence agencies, according to Rocky Cole, who co-founded and serves as chief operating officer of iVerify.
Security researchers were able to detect these threats because the attackers made careless operational mistakes that are uncommon in government-sponsored iPhone hacking operations.
“The fact that they don’t care if it gets burned, and that they’re using them in mass attacks with poor (operational security), that says a lot about how much they value these tools,” Cole explained. “They’re not overly precious about them being exposed.”
Investigators determined that Darksword was hosted on the same internet servers used by suspected Russian operators behind the Coruna spyware campaign.
MADRID, March 18 – During a Wednesday meeting in Madrid, Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez assured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that ongoing Middle East conflicts will not weaken Spain’s commitment to Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression. The leaders formalized military cooperation agreements covering joint production of defense equipment including unmanned aircraft, radar systems, and missile technology.
“We cannot deny that the crisis in the Middle East is monopolising conversation and precisely for that reason, I want to say to the government of Ukraine that nothing and no one will make us forget what is happening in Ukraine,” Sanchez declared. “We will keep our support for the Ukrainian people with the same intensity.”
The meeting comes as Russia’s full-scale assault on Ukraine continues beyond four years, while the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran enters its third week with no resolution apparent.
Zelenskyy announced through his X social media account that beyond his discussions with Sanchez, he also conducted meetings with Spanish defense contractor Sener Aerospace & Defence to finalize manufacturing partnerships for air defense systems and missiles, plus potential collaboration on long-distance drone development.
“We discussed production capabilities and bolstering Ukraine’s air defence,” he stated. “Strengthening air defence and protecting lives are our top priorities. Ukraine has new developments and is ready to scale them up.”
Sener Aerospace & Defence issued a confirmation that their agreements involve Ukrainian defense manufacturers Fire Point, Luch and Radionix.
Looking ahead to Thursday’s European leadership summit in Brussels, Zelenskyy expressed optimism that continental leaders will approve a 90 billion euro financial package for Kyiv covering military assistance and general budget needs, despite Hungarian resistance to the proposal.
“I know most European countries understand this is not a fair blockage,” he commented. “There is no alternative to the 90 billion.”
Drivers traveling through the area should expect delays and plan alternative routes as utility crews have temporarily blocked the right turn lane connecting Darley Road to Naamans Road.
The lane closure is scheduled to remain in effect until 3 PM today while utility work is completed in the vicinity.
Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and consider using alternate routes to avoid potential traffic backups in the area.
Israeli military forces have targeted and killed approximately a dozen Gaza police officers over the past week, marking an intensification of strikes against the Hamas-controlled security force, according to Gaza officials.
The fate of Hamas’ roughly 10,000 police officers has become a major obstacle in negotiations surrounding President Trump’s Gaza proposal. While Hamas seeks to incorporate these officers into a future police force outlined in the plan, Israel firmly opposes any involvement of personnel with Hamas connections.
Under Trump’s framework, the militant organization would surrender its weapons and transfer governing authority to a group of Palestinian technical experts who would oversee Gaza’s police operations as Israeli forces pull back. However, discussions about disarming Hamas have been postponed due to the ongoing U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, according to Reuters reporting.
Throughout the coastal territory where Hamas maintained authority following the October ceasefire after two years of conflict, largely unarmed officers wearing dark blue police uniforms continue their street patrols.
On Monday, these officers were observed managing traffic flow and monitoring marketplaces and temporary housing camps throughout Gaza City.
Ismail Al-Thawabta, who heads the Hamas-controlled Gaza government’s media department, reported that Israeli forces have eliminated more than 2,800 Gaza police personnel since the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led assault on southern Israel that sparked the current war.
Since the ceasefire began, dozens of officers have lost their lives, with at least 10 killed since the U.S.-Israeli confrontation with Iran commenced, Thawabta stated.
In an effort to minimize additional casualties, he explained that “operational orders and precautionary measures” have been implemented “to reduce risks to police personnel, including reorganizing movements and deployments.” He declined to provide additional specifics.
Israeli officials maintain that their Gaza operations resulting in police officer deaths have focused on neutralizing threats to their military personnel from Hamas. Israeli forces continue to occupy approximately 53% of Gaza’s territory.
In the latest incident, nine police officers died when an airstrike hit their vehicle in Zawayda in central Gaza on Sunday, local medical sources reported. The destroyed car’s bloody remains were abandoned on the street, surrounded by damaged structures.
Israeli military representatives stated they had targeted an armed Hamas unit planning an assault on Israeli troops, claiming six fatalities. Neither Hamas nor the military immediately addressed the conflicting casualty numbers when contacted for comment.
Hamas maintains that Israel is deliberately attacking police officers who are working to preserve public order and security in Gaza after the two-year conflict. Israel disputes this characterization.
Palestinian political expert Reham Owda suggested that Israel’s police targeting reflects concerns about Hamas strengthening its control over Gaza territories under its authority.
“These strikes aim to disrupt Hamas’ security efforts in the territory and convey a clear message that Israel will not accept any expanded security role for Hamas within Gaza,” Owda explained to Reuters.
Gaza’s health department reports that Israeli forces have killed at least 670 individuals since the October ceasefire took effect. Israeli authorities say militants in Gaza have killed four soldiers during the same timeframe.
On Wednesday, an Israeli airstrike eliminated Mohammad Abu Shahla, a local armed Hamas leader, in Khan Younis in southern Gaza, according to Hamas and medical officials. That same night, two motorcycle riders shot and injured a high-ranking Hamas police official in Gaza City. Hamas attributed the shooting to “Israeli collaborators.”
Israeli authorities did not provide immediate responses regarding these events.
Abdallah Al-Araisha, a Palestinian resident of a tent settlement in Gaza City, praised the police for their efforts to combat crime and safeguard civilians throughout Gaza, where most of the territory’s 2 million residents have been forced from their homes.
“Without the police, we would be ruined,” Al-Araisha commented.
Motorists traveling through the Smyrna area should expect delays on Fast Landing Road this afternoon due to an ongoing moving operation.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that Route 42 is experiencing traffic disruptions between Smyrna Lespic Road (Route 9) and North DuPont Highway (Route 13) as crews conduct the moving operation.
The operation is scheduled to wrap up by 5 PM today, according to DelDOT officials.
Drivers are advised to seek alternate routes or allow extra travel time when passing through the affected area during the remainder of the afternoon.
Motorists traveling on Hollymount Road should expect delays today due to a lane closure affecting westbound traffic.
According to DelDOT, the right lane is currently blocked between Anna Drive and Joseph Lane, creating potential bottlenecks for drivers in the area.
The lane restriction is scheduled to be lifted by 4 PM this afternoon. Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time and consider alternate routes if possible.
DelDOT has not specified the reason for the closure, but motorists should exercise caution when traveling through the work zone.
WASHINGTON — February brought an unexpected surge in wholesale inflation that caught economists off guard, according to new federal data released Wednesday.
The Department of Labor’s latest producer price index, which tracks inflation before it reaches everyday consumers, climbed 0.7% between January and February. Year-over-year, wholesale prices jumped 3.4% compared to February 2025, marking the steepest 12-month increase since February of last year.
These numbers exceeded what economic forecasters had anticipated and came before recent military actions between the U.S., Israel, and Iran sent energy costs soaring even higher.
When removing the unpredictable food and energy sectors, core wholesale inflation still increased 0.5% month-to-month. While this was lower than January’s 0.8% spike, it remained more than double economists’ expectations. Core prices climbed 3.9% annually, the largest year-over-year jump since January 2025.
Food costs drove much of February’s inflation surge, rising 2.4% in a single month. Vegetable prices skyrocketed 49% while fruit costs increased 10%. Despite the monthly spike, food prices remained lower than the previous year’s levels.
The inflation report arrives as Federal Reserve officials convene in Washington to determine their next move on benchmark interest rates. After reducing rates three times in 2025, the central bank has paused further cuts and is expected to maintain that position Wednesday. Fed leaders are monitoring whether inflationary pressures will subside and if the weakening job market requires stimulus through lower borrowing costs. The Iran conflict has complicated inflation forecasts by pushing energy prices upward.
Recent government data revealed consumer-level inflation remained above the Federal Reserve’s 2% goal even before the Iran military action began. Consumer prices increased 2.4% last month compared to February 2025, the Labor Department reported last week. Additionally, the Commerce Department announced Friday that the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge — the personal consumption expenditures index — rose 2.8% in January from the previous year. Core PCE prices climbed 3.1%, the largest increase in nearly two years.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi departed Wednesday for Washington, D.C., anticipating challenging discussions with President Donald Trump following his request for Japan and allied nations to deploy naval vessels to protect the Strait of Hormuz.
The planned three-day Washington visit was initially designed to address trade issues and reinforce U.S.-Japan relations amid China’s expanding regional presence. However, the agenda is now dominated by the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran that began February 28.
“I think the U.S. visit will be a very difficult one, but I will do everything to maximize our national interest and to protect the daily lives of the people when the situation changes daily,” Takaichi addressed parliament Wednesday before her departure.
This marks Takaichi’s second encounter with Trump since their October meeting in Tokyo, which occurred shortly after she became Japan’s first female prime minister. The conservative leader follows in the footsteps of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who maintained strong ties with Trump.
Originally, Takaichi planned to concentrate discussions on China and bolster bilateral relations before Trump’s scheduled diplomatic mission to China. The White House announced Tuesday that trip has been postponed due to Middle Eastern hostilities.
Takaichi faces pressure to determine appropriate commitments to offer Trump. Political analysts suggest demonstrating progress on investment agreements will be crucial for summit success.
Japanese representatives indicate both nations will work to expand collaboration on regional security, essential minerals, energy resources, and China-related concerns.
As a crucial Asian ally, Japan has avoided explicitly endorsing U.S.-Israeli military actions against Iran or committing to warship deployment. This stance reflects Japan’s constitutional limitations, legal concerns about U.S. actions, and domestic opposition.
Speaking to parliament, she expressed Japan’s desire for conflict de-escalation, noting disruptions to oil and gas supplies Japan heavily relies upon.
“Without early de-escalation of the situation, our economy will be in trouble,” she stated. “Early de-escalation is important for both the U.S. and global economy.”
Japan seeks to maintain its longstanding relationship with Iran, a primary source of Japanese oil imports.
Takaichi and her cabinet have disputed claims that Washington formally requested Japanese warships for the Strait of Hormuz. Trump posted on X asking multiple countries, including Japan, to volunteer before later stating he no longer required assistance due to lukewarm responses.
This development reduces pressure on Takaichi.
“We have no plans to send warships right now,” Takaichi informed parliament Wednesday. She indicated reconnaissance and intelligence missions might be possible only after a ceasefire. Japanese analysts suggest minesweeping operations could be feasible once hostilities conclude.
“I will clearly explain what we can do and cannot do based on the Japanese law,” Takaichi said. “I’m sure (Trump) is fully aware of the Japanese law.”
Takaichi aims to address China’s security and economic pressure tactics while securing U.S. commitment to the Indo-Pacific region, particularly as American forces stationed in Japan relocate to the Middle East—a shift Japan views as potentially risky given China’s growing influence.
She plans to reassure Trump regarding Japan’s military expansion, highlighting accelerated long-range missile deployment to strengthen offensive capabilities. This represents a departure from Japan’s post-war defense-only doctrine and demonstrates closer U.S. alignment.
During the summit, Takaichi expects to express Japan’s interest in participating in America’s “Golden Dome” multi-billion dollar, comprehensive missile defense program.
Japan views China as an escalating security concern and has promoted military development on southwestern islands near the East China Sea.
Takaichi has committed to updating Japan’s security and defense policies by December and aims to further strengthen Japan’s military with unmanned combat systems and long-range weaponry.
Her administration plans to eliminate restrictions on lethal arms exports in coming weeks to advance Japan’s defense sector and cooperation with the United States and allied nations.
As a resource-limited country, Japan seeks to diversify oil sources and is completing Japanese investment for expanded Alaskan oil production and domestic stockpiles, according to media accounts. Japanese investment in small modular reactors and American natural gas is also under consideration.
If approved, these projects would comprise part of a $550 billion investment commitment Japan made in October. In February, both sides announced Japan’s dedication to a $36 billion initial project phase—including an Ohio natural gas facility, a Gulf Coast crude oil export terminal, and a synthetic diamond production site—whose advancement will be discussed with Trump.
Japan reportedly intends to suggest joint rare earth development from undersea deposits near the remote Japanese island of Minamitorishima as part of the investment package.
Diplomatic and trade tensions have intensified since Takaichi’s statement that Chinese military action against Taiwan could justify Japanese military intervention.
CANTERBURY, England — Two people have died and 20 others have contracted meningitis in an alarming outbreak that has gripped the University of Kent and surrounding areas in southeast England since last Friday.
British Health Secretary Wes Streeting called the situation in Kent County “unprecedented” on Wednesday, citing the rapid emergence of so many cases within just days. The death toll includes one university student and one pupil from a local school in the area.
Health authorities reported five additional infections on Tuesday, bringing the total to 20 confirmed cases. Officials are now distributing antibiotics and meningitis B vaccines to thousands of University of Kent students in Canterbury as a precautionary measure.
The disease affects the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, caused by viral or bacterial infections. When bacterial meningitis develops, it can trigger a dangerous blood infection known as meningococcal sepsis, often appearing as a distinctive rash. Without immediate medical attention, the condition can prove fatal or result in limb amputations.
Britain typically sees approximately 350 meningitis cases annually, making it relatively uncommon. However, the infection spreads easily in crowded living situations like college dormitories. University students face heightened risk because the bacteria can remain inactive in people’s nasal passages or throats, then transmit through coughing, intimate contact, or sharing beverages.
Medical experts believe many infected individuals attended Club Chemistry in Canterbury between March 5-7. Healthcare providers nationwide have received instructions to provide antibiotics to anyone who visited the nightclub during those specific dates, along with University of Kent students.
“This is so that anyone who has traveled home, or away from Kent, can easily access this important preventative treatment close to them,” officials stated.
The recent COVID-19 pandemic has influenced local residents’ behavior, with many Canterbury area residents returning to mask-wearing and social distancing practices out of caution.
Medical teams have administered over 2,500 antibiotic doses, including treatments for Club Chemistry patrons. The meningitis B vaccination is also available, though most current university students wouldn’t have received it since it only joined Britain’s standard childhood immunization schedule in 2015. Some students may have obtained private vaccinations.
The U.K. Health Security Agency reports adequate vaccine supplies exist, but private pharmacies are experiencing difficulty securing doses for individuals seeking to pay out-of-pocket.
Case numbers may continue climbing since the infection’s incubation period extends up to two weeks. Researchers say it’s premature to determine whether this particular strain shows increased severity compared to others.
Despite student departures from Canterbury, Streeting expressed confidence the outbreak won’t spread nationally. “This is not currently a national incident,” he said.
KABUL, Afghanistan — Heavy machinery carved burial sites at a cemetery in Afghanistan’s capital Wednesday as the nation prepared for a mass funeral ceremony honoring victims of a devastating attack on a drug treatment facility that Afghan authorities attribute to Pakistani forces.
The attack represents the most lethal incident in an intensifying three-week conflict between the neighboring countries. Afghan authorities report 408 fatalities and 265 injuries from the incident, though these numbers remain unconfirmed by independent sources.
Pakistani leadership disputes Afghanistan’s claims that it deliberately struck the Omid Addiction Treatment Hospital, maintaining that Monday’s military operations in Kabul and eastern Afghanistan focused exclusively on military targets. Pakistani officials have characterized Afghan casualty reports as false propaganda.
Speaking to The Associated Press from Islamabad Wednesday, Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar stated that Pakistan had “only targeted terrorist infrastructure.”
“We have just gone after the Afghan Taliban regime, their military setups, their terrorist infrastructure, and all the setups which are supporting or promoting terrorists,” Tarar said.
Cross-border violence and aerial bombardments within Afghanistan, including multiple strikes on the capital, have marked this conflict that erupted in late February, continuing despite international appeals for peace.
Pakistani leadership alleges that Afghanistan shelters extremists who launch attacks within Pakistani territory, particularly members of the Pakistani Taliban. This organization operates independently from but maintains close ties with the Afghan Taliban, who assumed control of Afghanistan in 2021 following the withdrawal of U.S.-led forces. Afghan officials reject these accusations.
Wednesday’s somber scene featured steady rainfall as emergency vehicles queued outside the burial ground, removing simple wooden coffins. The ceremony honored victims from Kabul province whose remains had been positively identified. Officials indicated that casualties from other Afghan regions would be returned to their home areas for interment.
The strike targeted the 2,000-bed Omid facility around 9 p.m. Monday. The hospital had undergone renaming and significant expansion approximately one year earlier as part of the Taliban government’s campaign against widespread substance abuse issues plaguing the nation.
Afghanistan’s extensive opium cultivation has supplied much of the global heroin market, and combined with prolonged warfare and economic hardship, has created severe addiction problems that current leadership has pledged to address.
The facility’s location near Kabul’s international airport sits adjacent to the former Camp Phoenix NATO base, previously used by American forces for Afghan National Army training. Current usage of that location remains unclear. The Monday attack triggered a massive fire, with local media footage showing rescue teams searching debris with handheld lights throughout the night while firefighters battled the flames.
Tarar described Pakistan’s military actions as precise strikes “carried out in an ammunition depot in Kabul. In the aftermath of which, we saw fumes and flames in the atmosphere in Kabul.”
He attributed subsequent casualties, without providing specific numbers, to the presence of “ammunition, there were technical equipment, there were arms there in that depot.”
Recovery teams continued extracting bodies from the hospital’s charred ruins Tuesday morning.
Afghan government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid denounced the attack, charging Pakistan with “targeting hospitals and civilian sites to perpetrate horrors.” He described the deceased as “innocent civilians and addicts.”
This current violence, representing the most serious confrontation between the nations, began in late February when Afghanistan launched retaliatory cross-border operations following Pakistani airstrikes. The hostilities shattered a Qatar-mediated ceasefire established in October after earlier fighting claimed dozens of military personnel, civilians and suspected militants.
Pakistan declared itself in “open war” with Afghanistan last month. The escalating situation has concerned the international community, particularly given the region’s continued presence of other extremist groups, including al-Qaida and the Islamic State, which have attempted to regain influence.
PALATKA, Fla. — More than five decades after Florida abandoned an ambitious waterway project meant to rival the Panama Canal, environmental groups are pushing to undo the lasting damage left behind.
The Cross Florida Barge Canal was designed to create a shipping shortcut across the state, connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico. Construction halted in 1971 due to environmental opposition, but not before builders completed a dam and reservoir in northeastern Florida.
The Kirkpatrick Dam and Rodman Reservoir have since flooded portions of the Ocala National Forest, submerged 20 natural springs, and blocked wildlife migration routes that manatees and other animals depend on.
Periodically, state officials drain the 9,500-acre reservoir for maintenance, temporarily revealing what lies beneath the surface. The most recent drawdown began in October and concluded in early March — the first such event in six years.
When the water recedes, buried springs resurface and young cypress trees start sprouting on the exposed lake bottom. For a few months, the landscape returns to something resembling its original condition.
Environmental advocates want to make this restoration permanent by dismantling the 7,200-foot dam and reconnecting the St. Johns and Ocklawaha rivers with Silver Springs, among America’s largest spring systems.
“By removing the dam, we would reunite the waters,” explained Nina Bhattacharyya, who leads Florida Defenders of the Environment. “We would have springs reemerge. Wildlife would be able to move back and forth — migratory fish, manatees and so much more. Removal of the dam would really fix a wrong that was created decades ago.”
Their latest attempt to secure funding hit a roadblock last week when Florida’s legislative session concluded without passing a bill that would have allocated $70 million for a four-year dam removal and river restoration project.
Despite the setback, restoration supporters remain hopeful after coming closer to success than in previous years. The House had approved the measure, which was awaiting a Senate vote when the session ended.
“While the bill did not receive a final vote in the Senate this session, the strong bipartisan support it earned reflects growing momentum for restoration,” Bhattacharyya said Monday.
The periodic reservoir drainings offer glimpses of what permanent restoration might accomplish. Wildlife tracks from bears and deer appear on the dried ground. Wild turkeys and sandhill cranes return to areas they cannot access when flooded. Thousands of dead trees — cypress, palm, and maple — emerge like monuments to the submerged ecosystem.
“It’s haunting, like a graveyard,” observed Karen Chadwick, a charter boat captain, as she navigated between the weathered tree trunks protruding from the water.
Safety concerns add urgency to the restoration debate. The aging dam has exceeded its expected lifespan, and advocates warn that structural failure could threaten hundreds of nearby residences.
“Something is going to happen, maybe next year, maybe in a couple of years,” warned Republican state Sen. Jason Brodeur, who sponsored the restoration legislation, during a committee hearing last month. “Something has to be done.”
Nature filmmaker Mark Emery recently testified to state lawmakers about the ecological damage caused by the dam. He explained that Silver Springs historically fed the Ocklawaha River, but the dam has reduced water flow and eliminated the large schools of mullet and catfish that once thrived in the springs.
“This system is a national treasure,” Emery told legislators. “Hundreds of millions of gallons of fresh water feed and cool the river. Before the dam, you had a direct waterway to the ocean with small springs all along the way.”
However, some fishing organizations oppose permanently draining the reservoir, arguing it has become a premier destination for largemouth bass fishing that supports the local economy in rural Putnam County, one of Florida’s most economically disadvantaged areas. The reservoir also attracts campers and birdwatchers.
Steve Miller, who heads Save Rodman Reservoir, told lawmakers in February that the reservoir helps filter nutrients from the water and could serve as an alternative water source as Florida’s population continues growing.
“There’s a bigger picture than what is being shown,” Miller argued during legislative hearings. “Don’t gamble away on speculative outcomes.”
Putnam County Commissioner Joshua Alexander acknowledged that while the dam’s construction was problematic, local residents have built tourism businesses around the reservoir.
“We have created chicken salad out of chicken,” Alexander told lawmakers. “We are not a rich economy, and I believe it would affect our economy.”
Restoring the Ocklawaha River would continue Florida’s pattern of repairing environmental damage from misguided infrastructure projects.
The Everglades had shrunk by half due to Army Corps of Engineers water management and flood control systems before a multi-billion-dollar restoration effort began this century. Similarly, the Corps straightened and channeled the Kissimmee River in the 1960s to prevent flooding, but disrupted the ecosystem that supported numerous bird and fish species. That river’s restoration took two decades to complete, finishing in 2021.
“Nature is very resilient,” Chadwick reflected, “if you just get out of the way and let it do its thing.”
WASHINGTON — February brought an unexpected surge in wholesale pricing across the United States, according to new federal data released Wednesday.
The Labor Department’s latest producer price index, which tracks inflation before it reaches everyday consumers, climbed 0.7% compared to January and jumped 3.4% from the same period last year. This annual growth represents the steepest climb recorded in twelve months.
The increases exceeded what financial analysts had predicted and happened before recent military actions by the United States and Israel against Iran caused energy costs to spike even higher.
When removing unpredictable food and energy costs from the equation, core wholesale pricing still increased 0.5% month-over-month. While this was lower than January’s 0.8% rise, it remained more than double what economists had anticipated. Year-over-year, these core prices jumped 3.9%, marking the largest gain since January 2025.
Food costs drove much of February’s price surge, climbing 2.4% from the previous month. Vegetable prices skyrocketed by 49%, while fruit costs rose 10%. Despite these monthly increases, food prices remained lower than February 2025 levels.
This pricing data arrives as Federal Reserve officials gather in Washington to determine their next move on benchmark interest rates. After reducing rates three times in 2025, policymakers have since paused cuts and are anticipated to maintain that stance in Wednesday’s announcement. The central bank continues monitoring whether inflation pressures will diminish and if the struggling job market requires assistance through reduced borrowing costs. The ongoing conflict with Iran has complicated inflation forecasts by driving energy prices upward.
Recent government reports from last week revealed that consumer-level inflation stayed above the Federal Reserve’s 2% goal before the Iran military action began.
One week ago, the Labor Department found consumer prices had increased 2.4% in the most recent month compared to February 2025. Additionally, the Commerce Department announced Friday that the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge — the personal consumption expenditures price index — rose 2.8% in January year-over-year. Core PCE prices climbed 3.1%, representing the largest jump in almost two years.
A decade has passed since terrorists struck Brussels Airport and a metro station, yet Walter Benjamin remains locked in a fight for complete compensation while dealing with lasting physical and psychological wounds from that horrific day.
Benjamin, now 57, was standing in the airport’s departure area when three ISIS operatives entered with luggage packed with explosives on March 22, 2016. Two attackers died in the blast while a third escaped after abandoning his device.
About an hour afterward, another bomber detonated explosives at the Maalbeek metro station. The coordinated assault claimed 32 lives and injured over 300 individuals, with Benjamin among those severely wounded.
“My leg was torn off … right in the middle of the knee,” he said.
The traumatic memories continue haunting Benjamin, who requires medication before entering any airport facility. He believes the terrorists completely destroyed his previous way of life.
“I can still smell the burned bodies,” Benjamin said. “You have to realise this was actually a war zone. People died, people were torn apart.”
Hospital photos from the attack’s aftermath show Benjamin recovering in bed alongside his daughter, with Belgium’s King Philippe and Queen Mathilde visiting during his treatment.
Today, Benjamin maintains his rehabilitation routine, working out on exercise equipment multiple times weekly as part of his ongoing recovery process.
Beyond physical therapy, Benjamin faces continued bureaucratic struggles over his compensation case. His files from a decade of insurance dealings, medical evaluations, and legal proceedings have grown into towering stacks.
“(It) still hasn’t been closed to this day,” he said. “Every day there’s something new that comes up … It weighs heavily on the mind.”
While Benjamin has collected partial payments from MSIG Europe, the insurance company managing his Brussels Airport claim, no complete resolution has been achieved.
MSIG Europe stated: “Discussions are ongoing to reach a final settlement.”
Additionally, Belgian authorities have significantly cut Benjamin’s war pension – a benefit provided to attack survivors – prompting him to challenge the reduction through legal counsel.
According to Life4Brussels, a survivor advocacy group, Benjamin’s situation reflects a widespread problem. The organization reports that victims encounter a complicated and draining compensation system, leading some to give up their claims entirely.
Assuralia, representing Belgian insurance companies, announced that insurers have distributed 88.2 million euros ($101.78 million) in victim compensation since 2016.
A government representative noted that Belgium’s Commission for Financial Aid to Victims has separately allocated 7.9 million euros ($9.11 million) to attack survivors. Benjamin confirmed receiving money from this source as well.
Belgium plans to commemorate the attacks’ 10th anniversary through multiple ceremonies coordinated by airport officials, Brussels transit authority MIVB, and government agencies working alongside victims’ groups, according to the prime minister’s office.
In July 2023, courts convicted six individuals for their roles in the bombings, imposing sentences ranging from 20 years to life imprisonment.
Emergency responders are conducting a rescue mission at a Swiss ski destination following reports that a gondola cabin plummeted down a snow-covered slope amid severe wind conditions on March 18th.
Officials have not confirmed whether passengers were aboard the fallen cable car when the accident occurred at Engelberg, a popular skiing destination located in Switzerland’s central region.
A representative from Rega, Switzerland’s air rescue organization, confirmed that one of their helicopters is participating in the emergency response but declined to provide additional information about the operation.
According to Swiss publication 20 Minuten, the incident resulted in at least one person sustaining injuries.
BET, the company that operates the lift system at the resort, has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the accident.
Stock market futures headed lower Wednesday morning after government data revealed wholesale prices climbed at a steeper pace than anticipated during February, reducing optimism about potential Federal Reserve interest rate cuts in 2024.
The Labor Department’s latest report indicated the Producer Price Index jumped 3.4% compared to the same month last year, surpassing the 2.9% increase that economists surveyed by Reuters had predicted.
Monthly figures showed an even sharper contrast, with prices climbing 0.7% versus the forecasted 0.3% gain.
When removing fluctuating food and energy costs, the core Producer Price Index reached 3.9% annually, above economist predictions of 3.7%. The monthly core reading also exceeded expectations at 0.5%, compared to the anticipated 0.3% increase.
By 8:36 a.m. Eastern Time, Dow futures had dropped 115 points or 0.24%, while S&P 500 futures fell 15 points or 0.22%. Nasdaq 100 futures declined 47.25 points or 0.19%.
WASHINGTON – February brought an unexpected spike in producer prices across the United States, with costs climbing well beyond what economists had anticipated, according to new federal data released Wednesday.
The Producer Price Index for final demand jumped 0.7% last month, primarily driven by rising services costs, following a 0.5% increase in January, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported. This surge significantly exceeded economists’ predictions of a 0.3% rise.
The escalating conflict between the U.S.-Israel alliance and Iran, which began in late February, has driven oil prices up more than 40%. Economic analysts anticipate the war’s inflationary effects will become more apparent in next month’s consumer and producer price data for March.
Federal Reserve officials are anticipated to maintain current interest rates following their two-day policy meeting concluding Wednesday. Central bank leaders will release updated economic forecasts, which analysts expect will include higher inflation projections. Market observers predict only a single rate reduction this year.
Over the full 12-month period ending in February, producer prices climbed 3.4%, up from January’s 2.9% annual increase. Several elements of both the PPI and Consumer Price Index contribute to calculating the Personal Consumption Expenditures price measures, which the Federal Reserve monitors to gauge progress toward its 2% inflation goal.
Before Wednesday’s producer price data release, economists projected the core PCE price index, which excludes volatile food and energy costs, would rise 0.4% in February. This would represent the third consecutive month of 0.4% increases, more than twice the monthly growth rate analysts say is necessary to consistently move inflation back to target levels.
Year-over-year core PCE inflation was projected to reach 3.1% in February, matching January’s pace. The Bureau of Economic Analysis plans to release the delayed February PCE inflation data next month.
A Florida electronics manufacturing company has boosted its yearly financial projections Wednesday, citing increased business from artificial intelligence data center infrastructure needs.
Jabil, headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida, saw its stock price climb 1.1% in early trading after announcing second-quarter results that exceeded analyst predictions.
The company has benefited from increased investment in data center infrastructure as businesses seek more computing capacity to power AI applications.
“Continued momentum in intelligent infrastructure, where demand remains robust across cloud and data center infrastructure, networking and communications, and capital equipment” drove the strong performance, according to Jabil CEO Mike Dastoor.
Dastoor noted that regulated sectors also showed improvement, with automotive and renewable energy divisions performing better than anticipated.
The manufacturer produces components for Apple and offers design, manufacturing and management services across multiple industries including technology, automotive, transportation, healthcare, storage and packaging.
Jabil has revised its fiscal 2026 revenue projection upward to $34 billion from the previous estimate of $32.4 billion. The company also increased its adjusted earnings per share forecast to $12.25 from the earlier prediction of $11.55.
Wall Street analysts had expected annual revenue of $32.71 billion and adjusted earnings per share of $11.67, based on LSEG data.
For the second quarter, Jabil reported adjusted earnings per share of $2.69, surpassing analyst expectations of $2.51.
The company’s second-quarter revenue increased 23% compared to the same period last year, reaching $8.28 billion and beating Wall Street projections of $7.74 billion.
Drivers using Sussex Highway are facing traffic delays this evening due to ongoing construction work that has forced the closure of one southbound lane.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that the right lane of Route 13 southbound is currently blocked between Mount Zion Road (Route 480) and Boyce Road while crews complete construction activities.
The lane restriction is expected to remain in place until 8 PM today, potentially causing slower travel times for commuters and other motorists in the area.
Drivers are advised to allow extra time for their commute and exercise caution when traveling through the construction zone.
SALISBURY, Md. – The latest weekly Roadie Joes Rankings have been released for the third Wednesday of March, showcasing three Salisbury University athletic programs.
The Sea Gulls earned spots in the rankings across multiple sports, with their women’s lacrosse team, men’s lacrosse squad, and baseball program all receiving recognition in this week’s edition.
The rankings provide a weekly assessment of collegiate athletic performance and highlight standout programs across the region.
Motorists traveling southbound on Kenton Road should expect delays this afternoon as construction crews have closed one lane between Chestnut Grove Road and Burning Tree Road.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports the lane restriction will continue through 4:30 PM today as work crews complete their project in the area.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time and use caution when passing through the construction zone. Traffic may be moving slowly during peak travel hours.
MIAMI — The manager of Venezuela’s national baseball team went to extraordinary lengths to secure his country’s first World Baseball Classic championship, successfully challenging restrictions imposed by Major League Baseball organizations.
MLB franchises typically impose strict guidelines on how their players can be utilized by national team managers during the WBC tournament. Venezuela’s skipper Omar López managed to convince several MLB front offices to remove their initial player usage constraints, while Team USA manager Mark DeRosa chose to honor such limitations.
This negotiation proved crucial as it enabled López to deploy Chicago Cubs reliever Daniel Palencia on consecutive nights and for the third appearance in a four-game span. Palencia struck out three consecutive batters to secure Venezuela’s 3-2 championship victory.
“I woke this morning, three text messages from different organizations trying not to pitch guys back to back,” López explained prior to Tuesday’s title game. “One of my strengths is talk, and I send my text back fighting for my guys and then set a phone call with everybody. When you talk and you get an agreement, you negotiate it, everything is going to go well.”
Following the successful negotiations, López expressed relief about his options.
“I have my guys tonight to go back to back if I need to, and that’s the most important thing,” he stated.
In contrast, DeRosa chose not to utilize Mason Miller, considered among baseball’s elite relievers, due to a commitment made to the San Diego Padres regarding usage only in save opportunities. The 27-year-old right-hander had rested Monday following a 22-pitch performance in Sunday’s ninth inning during a 2-1 victory against the Dominican Republic, where his fastball reached an average of 101 mph.
Following Bryce Harper’s two-run home run that evened the score at 2-2 in the eighth inning against Venezuela, DeRosa selected Boston’s Garrett Whitlock to begin the ninth frame. Whitlock issued a walk to Luis Arraez, and substitute runner Javier Sanoja successfully stole second base. Sanoja crossed home plate when Eugenio Suárez delivered a double to the left-center field gap on a full-count changeup.
“Honoring the Padres,” DeRosa explained regarding Miller’s absence from the game. “Had we taken the lead, he was coming in, but I wasn’t going to bring him in to a tie game.”
Since Team USA batted in the bottom half of each inning as the designated home team, no save opportunity could materialize once the ninth inning began with the score tied.
“I wanted to honor the fact that there was a situation there where, if it was tied, we were going to use Whitlock,” DeRosa said. “We had talked to the Red Sox about that. And if we had the lead, we were going to use Mason.”
The 26-year-old right-handed Palencia required only 13 pitches to complete a flawless ninth inning during Saturday’s 8-6 quarterfinal triumph over Japan, recording two strikeouts and concluding the contest by retiring Shohei Ohtani on a fly ball.
He delivered 15 additional pitches Sunday during a perfect top of the ninth that completed a 4-2 victory against Italy.
In the championship game against Team USA, Palencia needed merely 11 pitches, bringing his three-game total to 39 throws. He struck out Kyle Schwarber using a 98.5 mph four-seam fastball, generated a popup from pinch-hitter Gunnar Henderson, and delivered a 99.7 mph fastball past Roman Anthony for the championship-clinching strikeout.
Palencia’s fastball speed averaged 98.1 mph versus Team USA, a decrease from 99.3 mph against Italy and 98.8 mph against Japan, though it remained effective enough for victory.
Across the three contests, he threw 30 fastballs, seven sliders, and two splitters, achieving 26 strikes against 13 balls.
“With that fastball, it is not easy to have good control, but I train that with my coaches in Venezuela,” he commented during the tournament. “I trained like a sprinter because I learned that it is about velocity, the capability of the muscle to move.”
KIRYAT SHMONA, Israel — When Gila Pahima moved back to her northern Israeli community last spring, she had hoped the worst was behind her. After being forced from her home for a year and a half due to Hezbollah attacks, residents had finally been allowed to return following a ceasefire in November 2024.
Today, warning sirens blare continuously as explosions from incoming missiles and defense systems thunder overhead.
“I feel like we’re in constant war,” she said. “You feel like you’re on a battlefield all day.”
Following their previous conflict, Israel appeared to have severely damaged the Iranian-supported Hezbollah organization. The group’s leadership had been eliminated, hundreds of fighters were injured by explosive devices planted in communication equipment, and large portions of southern Lebanon lay destroyed.
However, Hezbollah has renewed its missile attacks following joint Israeli and American strikes against Iran, its primary backer, which has also fired multiple rounds of rockets toward Israel.
While most Israelis back the conflict with Iran, believing it could bring significant regional transformation, exhaustion is growing, particularly in northern communities where residents continuously flee to protective shelters or live in them permanently. Many question whether aerial bombardments or ground operations can deliver lasting security.
“You brought us here. You said, ‘Hezbollah is weakened,’” said another resident, Avraham Golan, addressing the Israeli government. “Where is it weakened? They are worse than what they used to be.”
The government relocated 60,000 northern residents when Hezbollah started launching rockets and unmanned aircraft in support of Hamas following its October 7, 2023, assault on Israel from Gaza. Citizens began returning only after the Israel-Hezbollah truce more than 12 months later.
While Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains strong backing in this conservative community, residents express frustration over the gap between official statements about defeating Hezbollah and their reality of enduring daily bombardment.
Golan, age 79, came to Kiryat Shmona in 1951 when his family left Iraq for Israel. The retiree previously worked in apple groves scattered across the verdant hills encircling the community.
Evening hours bring the greatest terror, he explained while fighting back emotion. The blasts occur so nearby they seem to penetrate your bedroom, and residents haven’t managed more than two consecutive hours of rest, he noted. Between alarm warnings, people briefly leave to purchase essential supplies.
Bruria Danino, 61, relocated to a shelter with her relatives after injuring her nose while rushing there in darkness during the early phase of this conflict.
For most of the last two weeks, they’ve shared their neighborhood shelter with three other families, sleeping on metal bunks that fold from the walls. When missile alerts interrupt her grandson’s virtual schooling, he calmly switches to animated shows on his tablet and settles onto an air mattress.
“They promised us a few years of quiet, but after 10 months, it’s the same situation,” Danino said.
Her daughter, Hodaya, described the experience as resembling a “horror movie.”
“People say Israel’s homefront is so strong, but we’re not strong, we all have post-trauma,” she said.
She wants officials to fund evacuation costs, as occurred during the previous war. All families with financial resources have departed, she noted, abandoning those with fewer means.
Israeli forces have conducted extensive bombing campaigns across southern Lebanon and Beirut’s southern districts, regions with significant Hezbollah presence that also house hundreds of thousands of Lebanese civilians who experienced severe damage in the last conflict. Israeli ground forces have advanced further into southern Lebanon while warning residents to evacuate from extensive areas.
The bombardments have claimed hundreds of Lebanese lives, forcing over one million to abandon their homes. Defense Minister Israel Katz has stated none will return until northern Israel achieves safety and stability.
Iranian rocket attacks have resulted in at least 12 Israeli deaths, while two soldiers have died in southern Lebanon combat operations.
Pahima, who returned last spring, was born in Kiryat Shmona and raised four sons there. She cherishes the natural beauty surrounding her residence and the peaceful atmosphere of the city, distant from Israel’s busy metropolitan areas. She fears the community may never recover its former character.
Numerous evacuated families, particularly those with young children, chose not to return. City officials declined to provide data on returnee numbers, but Pahima and other residents estimate roughly half remained elsewhere.
The community, already challenged by remote location, now offers even fewer prospects for young adults, she observed. She comprehends why families hesitate to come back.
“Maybe it will calm down for a few years,” she said. “But then war will come back.”
CAIRO (AP) — Violent clashes between opposing forces near Sudan’s border with Chad have resulted in 17 fatalities and numerous injuries, according to a humanitarian medical organization.
Monday’s assault in the border town of Tina left 66 individuals in critical condition, reported Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières or MSF) in a social media statement released Tuesday evening.
Sudan’s military forces announced that the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) had broadened their offensive operations targeting military installations in Tina, though army personnel successfully defended against the assault and forced the attackers to retreat.
These violent incidents represent an escalation in border region combat between government troops and the RSF, groups that have been engaged in warfare since April 2023. United Nations data indicates the ongoing conflict has claimed over 40,000 lives, though humanitarian organizations believe the actual death toll may be significantly higher.
The town of Tina represents one of the final strongholds maintained by Sudan’s armed forces within the vast Darfur region, territory that has remained under RSF dominance since October 2025. The adjacent Tine border crossing previously served as the primary corridor for international humanitarian assistance from Chad during periods when the Adre crossing point was temporarily shuttered.
Chad announced last month it had sealed its Sudanese border “until further notice” as a measure to prevent conflict from spreading across its territorial boundaries.
Victims from Monday’s violence received medical treatment from MSF personnel and Chadian healthcare workers at a recently established medical facility in Tine, Chad.
An MSF medical professional working at the facility reported that physicians are providing care without access to running water or electrical power, depending instead on backup generators and solar energy systems. Medical supply reserves are reportedly dwindling due to the sudden influx of new casualties.
Chad had previously closed its border temporarily following Sudan’s descent into chaos in April 2023, when political tensions between military leadership and the RSF erupted into armed conflict throughout the capital city of Khartoum and other regions.
The Darfur and Kordofan areas have become central battlegrounds in Sudan’s civil war, with Kordofan experiencing frequent deadly drone bombardments. Military analysts and aid workers have previously noted that increased aerial attacks in Kordofan have caused mounting civilian casualties and disrupted relief efforts.
President Donald Trump will travel to Dover Air Force Base on Wednesday to honor six American service members whose lives were lost when their military refueling plane crashed in Iraq last week.
This marks the second occasion since beginning military action against Iran on February 28th that the Republican commander in chief will participate in the ceremonial return of fallen soldiers’ remains — a duty he has previously called the “toughest thing” about his presidential role.
The six crew members aboard the KC-135 Air Force tanker aircraft died when their plane went down over allied territory in Iraq’s western region during support missions targeting Iran. The fallen service members hailed from Alabama, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio and Washington state.
This tragic incident has increased the death count in Operation Epic Fury to no fewer than 13 military personnel. Pentagon officials report that approximately 200 American troops have sustained injuries, with 10 cases classified as severe.
Trump previously visited Dover Air Force Base on March 7th for a similar ceremony honoring six service members who lost their lives in a drone attack on a Kuwait command facility. During that visit, he rendered military honors as caskets draped in American flags were transported from aircraft to vehicles bound for the base’s mortuary services.
Following that ceremony, Trump reflected on the difficult aspects of military leadership. “It’s the bad part of war,” he shared with media representatives. When questioned about the possibility of future visits for additional ceremonies as the conflict progresses, he responded, “I’m sure. I hate to do it, but it’s a part of war, isn’t it?”
Military officials from U.S. Central Command, responsible for Middle Eastern operations, reported that the aircraft went down after an undisclosed incident involving two planes in “friendly airspace” over Iraq. However, they clarified that the loss occurred during active duty operations and was “not due to hostile or friendly fire.” An investigation into the circumstances continues, while the second aircraft returned safely.
Three of the deceased were stationed with the 6th Air Refueling Wing at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida: Maj. John A. “Alex” Klinner, 33, who served in Birmingham, Alabama; Capt. Ariana Savino, 31, of Covington, Washington; and Tech. Sgt. Ashley Pruitt, 34, of Bardstown, Kentucky.
The remaining three served with the 121st Air Refueling Wing at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base in Columbus, Ohio: Capt. Seth Koval, 38, a resident of Stoutsville, Ohio, who was from Mooresville, Indiana; Capt. Curtis Angst, 30, who lived in Columbus; and Master Sgt. Tyler Simmons, 28, of Columbus.
WASHINGTON – The Trump administration announced Wednesday it will expand a controversial visa bond program, adding 12 more countries to a list requiring citizens to post $15,000 deposits when applying for U.S. entry visas.
A State Department official, who requested anonymity, confirmed that the expanded program will affect citizens from a total of 50 nations, with most of the previously targeted countries located in Africa.
Starting April 2nd, nationals from these countries must pay the substantial bond when seeking B1 or B2 visas for business or tourist purposes. According to the official, the program’s purpose is to discourage visitors from remaining in the United States beyond their authorized stay.
The dozen newly added nations include Cambodia, Ethiopia, Georgia, Grenada, Lesotho, Mauritius, Mongolia, Mozambique, Nicaragua, Papua New Guinea, Seychelles, and Tunisia.
Visitors who comply with their visa terms and return home as required will have their bonds refunded, the official explained. Those who never make the trip will also receive their money back.
The Republican president has maintained strict immigration policies since assuming office in January, implementing aggressive deportation measures, canceling visas and green cards, and requiring social media and speech reviews for immigrants.
Civil liberties organizations have criticized Trump’s travel and immigration measures, arguing they undermine due process rights and freedom of expression. The administration and its supporters counter that these policies enhance national security.
Trump previously enacted a travel restriction last June that completely or partially prohibited entry for citizens from 19 countries, citing national security concerns.
The State Department official claimed the bond program has successfully decreased the number of individuals who exceed their authorized stay periods.
The original 38 countries subject to the bond requirement include Algeria, Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Bangladesh, Benin, Bhutan, Botswana, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Cote d’Ivoire, Cuba, Djibouti, Dominica, Fiji, Gabon, The Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kyrgyzstan, Malawi, Mauritania, Namibia, Nepal, Nigeria, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Josh D’Amaro officially takes over as Disney’s chief executive officer during Wednesday’s annual shareholder meeting, inheriting leadership of the entertainment giant during a period of significant industry transformation.
D’Amaro’s successful management of Disney’s profitable theme parks division, which generated 57% of the company’s $17.5 billion in profits last year, propelled him to the top executive position.
Shareholders are looking forward to hearing D’Amaro outline his approach for navigating Disney through the age of artificial intelligence, where technology companies pose threats to traditional media economics, and addressing potential tourism disruptions from Middle East conflicts and rising oil costs.
The new CEO also faces a struggling television division, audience fatigue with major franchises including Marvel and Star Wars, and a fragmented entertainment environment where Disney competes with platforms like YouTube and TikTok for viewer attention. He must also overcome comparisons to Bob Chapek, another former parks division leader whose unsuccessful CEO stint led to Bob Iger’s return in November 2022.
While both D’Amaro and Chapek emerged from the parks business, Disney’s board has partnered D’Amaro with seasoned television executive Dana Walden, who received a promotion to president and chief content officer. TD Cowen analyst Doug Creutz noted that Walden’s established creative experience will complement D’Amaro’s operational capabilities.
“It will however be critical for the two executives to be able to forge a strong partnership,” Creutz stated in his analyst report.
Iger plans to stay on Disney’s board through year-end before his second scheduled retirement.
Following Iger’s company return, Disney stock had plummeted over 40% in one year due to investor worries about streaming division losses. Activist investor Third Point had pushed for spinning off ESPN before recognizing its company value, while Trian Fund Management, led by Nelson Peltz, accumulated shares.
Iger brought stability to Disney by restructuring the organization to empower creative leadership and achieving streaming profitability. He successfully fought off campaigns from Peltz and other activists who claimed the entertainment company had fallen behind in streaming competition.
Under Iger’s guidance, Disney produced five movies earning over $1 billion globally in the last two years, announced a $60 billion investment plan for theme parks and cruise ships, launched ESPN’s streaming platform, and established an OpenAI partnership.
Despite these achievements, Disney’s total return on invested capital reached 11% during his leadership, trailing the S&P 500 Index’s 77% return. The company’s enterprise value currently trades at 10 times the upcoming 12 months of EBITDA, below its two-year median of 12 times EBITDA, according to LSEG data.
Bank of America analyst Jessica Reif Ehrlich expressed anticipation for hearing D’Amaro’s company vision.
When Iger became CEO in 2005, he acted swiftly to establish his leadership style, repairing relationships with activist investor Roy Disney and reconciling with former Pixar CEO Steve Jobs, which enabled Disney’s acquisition of the groundbreaking animation studio, Ehrlich explained.
“Josh is coming from parks. Will he do things quickly? Does he have a plan?” Ehrlich questioned. “If he could at least articulate a growth strategy, that would be super helpful.”
Motorists traveling on Wiggins Mill Road should expect delays today as construction crews are causing periodic lane restrictions along a busy stretch of roadway.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that lanes are being intermittently closed between Green Giant Road and Main Street as work continues in the area.
Officials say the lane restrictions will remain in effect until 4 PM today, and drivers are advised to plan for additional travel time when using this route.
The construction work is causing temporary disruptions to normal traffic flow as crews complete their scheduled activities along this section of Wiggins Mill Road.
Motorists traveling along Christina Avenue should expect traffic delays today as construction crews continue work that requires intermittent lane closures.
The affected stretch runs along Route 9 from Terminal Avenue to A Street, where drivers may encounter temporary lane restrictions throughout the day.
According to Delaware Department of Transportation officials, the construction-related lane closures are expected to remain in effect until 5 PM today.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time and consider alternate routes if possible to avoid potential delays in the area.
Delaware Department of Transportation crews are currently conducting debris cleanup along a stretch of Interstate 95 southbound today.
The litter removal operation is taking place in the median strip between the Maryland state line and the Delaware Welcome Center, according to DelDOT traffic officials.
Motorists traveling through the area should expect to see maintenance vehicles and crews working until 4:30 PM this afternoon.
Drivers are advised to use caution and reduce speeds when approaching the work zone for the safety of road crews.
The Newark Police Department has earned its 10th consecutive re-accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, marking another milestone in the department’s commitment to professional standards.
The certification, awarded on March 14, 2026, confirms that Newark Police successfully meets all 467 CALEA standards established for law enforcement organizations across the country.
CALEA accreditation serves as a benchmark for police departments nationwide, requiring agencies to demonstrate compliance with rigorous operational and administrative guidelines covering everything from use of force policies to community relations protocols.
This latest recognition continues Newark Police Department’s decade-long streak of maintaining these demanding professional standards, reflecting the organization’s ongoing dedication to excellence in law enforcement services.
Delaware transportation officials have temporarily shut down a portion of Double Bridges Road after a tree fell and blocked traffic flow.
The closure affects the stretch of roadway between Kent Avenue and Parker House Road while DelDOT crews work to safely remove the fallen tree from the road.
Motorists are advised to seek alternate routes until the tree removal operation is completed and the road can be safely reopened to traffic.
Drivers traveling through a section of Estates Drive should plan for potential delays as flagging crews continue work in the area this afternoon.
According to DelDOT, the flagging operation is taking place along Estates Drive between Appleby Road and Conlin Court. Traffic control personnel will be directing vehicles intermittently through the work zone.
The flagging activity is expected to wrap up by 6 PM today. Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and exercise caution when approaching the work area.
The iconic department store chain delivered fourth-quarter earnings that surpassed Wall Street predictions, with company-wide comparable store sales climbing upward once again. Macy’s attributed the positive results to strategic merchandise changes and enhanced customer experiences that encouraged increased consumer spending.
The retail corporation, which includes luxury retailer Bloomingdale’s and beauty store chain Bluemercury, presented a cautiously optimistic forecast for the coming year. While sales projections exceed analyst expectations, the company maintained a restrained profit outlook.
Tony Spring, the company’s chief executive who began his second year at the helm on Wednesday, announced that Bloomingdale’s achieved record-breaking holiday season revenue. Industry experts suggest this exceptional performance partly stems from the bankruptcy proceedings affecting the parent company of luxury competitors Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus.
However, Macy’s faces identical challenges confronting other retailers across the industry. Recent U.S. trade policies have imposed tariffs that increased merchandise costs, while American consumers have shifted their spending priorities.
The conflict in Iran that erupted in recent weeks has intensified these economic pressures, causing significant spikes in gasoline and diesel fuel prices. These elevated costs are immediately impacting consumers at gas stations and may soon affect retail pricing.
Additional expenses from tariffs have created challenging decisions for retailers, affecting both product selection and pricing strategies as they determine how much of these increased costs to transfer to already budget-conscious customers.
The Supreme Court recently overturned President Donald Trump’s most substantial tariff measures, though the current administration plans to implement replacement policies.
Within this economic environment, consumer purchasing patterns have become inconsistent, with affluent households maintaining spending levels while lower-income families reduce expenditures in what economists describe as a “K-shaped economy.”
Since Spring assumed leadership in early 2024, Macy’s has shuttered underperforming locations while investing substantially in modernizing remaining stores. The company has enhanced customer service operations and worked to distinguish its luxury offerings through exclusive product lines.
Financial results showed net earnings of $507 million, equivalent to $1.84 per share, during the three-month period concluding January 31. This represents significant growth from the previous year’s $342 million, or $1.21 per share. Adjusted earnings reached $1.67 per share for the most recent quarter.
Total revenue decreased slightly to $7.64 billion from $7.68 billion in the corresponding prior-year period, reflecting the company’s ongoing store closure strategy.
Sales at existing stores and online platforms increased 1.8%, though this growth rate fell short of the third quarter’s 3.2% gain and followed a 1.9% rise during the second quarter. These figures encompass licensed operations including cosmetics departments.
Financial analysts had projected earnings of $1.57 per share on revenue of $7.51 billion for the quarter, according to FactSet polling data.
While Macy’s overall comparable store sales grew 0.4% during the quarter, the 125 renovated locations demonstrated 0.9% growth, providing positive validation for the company’s significant modernization investments.
Bloomingdale’s delivered impressive comparable sales growth of 7.4% in the latest quarter, while Bluemercury posted a 1.6% increase in comparable sales.
Looking ahead, Macy’s anticipates annual net sales between $21.4 billion and $21.65 billion. The company projects comparable sales will range from a 0.5% decline to a 0.5% increase, with earnings per share expected between $1.90 and $2.10.
Wall Street analysts are forecasting $2.20 per share on sales of $20.97 billion, according to FactSet research.
THE HAGUE, Netherlands — Rwanda is demanding Britain pay $115 million through international arbitration proceedings after the UK abruptly cancelled a disputed refugee resettlement agreement, officials said Wednesday.
The arrangement, negotiated in 2022 under former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, would have relocated migrants arriving in Britain by boat or as stowaways to the East African nation. The agreement included financial compensation to Rwanda for associated expenses.
Rwanda’s Justice Minister and Attorney General Emmanuel Ugirashebuja told arbitrators at The Hague’s Permanent Court of Arbitration that his country established an asylum appeals system, built governmental and administrative frameworks, and “prepared reception facilities for the incoming refugees and incurred significant costs in doing so.”
However, when Starmer assumed power, “The new prime minister declared the Rwanda scheme to be dead and buried on his first full day in office,” Ugirashebuja stated. “The United Kingdom did not do Rwanda the courtesy of informing it in advance. Instead, Rwanda was left to read about these developments in the media.”
British officials are asking the tribunal to reject Rwanda’s financial demands, contending that both nations reached an agreement in November 2024 where Rwanda would abandon its payment claims.
Rwanda disputes this assertion. Ugirashebuja informed the panel that the UK “sought to walk away from its legal obligations.”
“A lot of the arbitration is going to turn around on the proof of that agreement,” said Joelle Grogan, visiting senior research fellow at UCD Sutherland School of Law in Dublin, in an Associated Press interview.
The arbitration tribunal at The Hague’s ornate Peace Palace will likely require months or longer to render a verdict following this week’s proceedings.
Sunak originally designed the initiative to transport certain migrants on one-way journeys to Rwanda. When Starmer cancelled the program, his home secretary Yvette Cooper condemned it as the “most shocking waste of taxpayer money I have ever seen.”
Cooper calculated that the plan, which faced legal obstacles and widespread human rights criticism, consumed 700 million pounds ($904 million) in public money, including Rwanda payments, chartered flights that never departed, and salaries for over 1,000 civil servants assigned to the program.
The 2022 agreement stipulated that migrants would be transported to Rwanda for asylum processing, and successful applicants would remain there permanently. Britain’s Supreme Court declared the policy illegal, ruling that Rwanda does not qualify as a safe destination for relocated migrants.
Rwanda initiated the arbitration process in January, stating that Starmer destroyed the deal “without prior notice to Rwanda.”
In the legal proceedings, Rwanda also contends that the UK breached the agreement’s provision requiring London to resettle vulnerable refugees from Rwanda.
WASHINGTON — Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin is scheduled to testify Wednesday during his confirmation hearing to become President Donald Trump’s next Homeland Security Secretary, where lawmakers will question him about his plans for the massive federal department.
The Oklahoma Republican has served 13 years in Congress and developed a strong working relationship with Trump. Should senators approve his nomination, Mullin would take over from Kristi Noem, who Trump dismissed from the position earlier this month following widespread criticism of her department leadership.
Wednesday’s hearing marks the first chance for Congress and the American people to learn directly from Mullin about his strategy for managing the nation’s third-largest cabinet agency. The enormous department employs approximately 260,000 workers and handles everything from presidential protection and disaster relief to immigration enforcement.
Before entering politics, Mullin competed in mixed martial arts and operated a plumbing company in Oklahoma. He has previously voiced support for immigration enforcement efforts and is anticipated to loyally advance Trump’s policy priorities if confirmed to lead DHS.
“Whether it be protecting the homeland from bad actors, stopping dangerous drugs from flowing into American communities, or removing the worst-of-the-worst criminal illegal aliens, Senator Mullin will work tirelessly to implement the President’s agenda,” White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson said in an emailed statement Tuesday.
Democrats are expected to focus heavily on Trump’s immigration policies and Mullin’s role in implementing them during questioning. The hearing occurs while the administration’s mass deportation efforts face mounting scrutiny, with Mullin likely to encounter pressure about achieving Trump’s ambitious removal targets amid growing public opposition to aggressive enforcement methods.
Democratic opposition to the Trump administration’s immigration tactics has led party members to block DHS funding until the department agrees to modify how its officers conduct operations.
Michigan Democratic Senator Gary Peters, who serves as the top Democrat on the Senate Homeland Security Committee, released prepared remarks ahead of the hearing calling for “straightforward” reforms similar to those governing police departments. Peters highlighted various security challenges facing the department, from Iranian threats to cybercriminals, emphasizing the need for leadership with a “steady hand.” However, Peters expressed “reservations” about Mullin’s readiness for such a crucial position.
The ongoing partial government shutdown has created lengthy security checkpoint delays at numerous airports nationwide as TSA screeners work without paychecks for another month. Republicans have consistently argued that Democrats are compromising national security by refusing to fund the department.
During Noem’s tenure, aggressive enforcement actions took place in major cities like Los Angeles, Chicago and Minneapolis, where federal agents conducted large-scale arrest operations that led to confrontations between protesters and law enforcement.
Critics and elected officials have accused DHS personnel of breaking vehicle windows, physically confronting bystanders attempting to document their actions, and holding immigrants in poor conditions. The fatal shootings of two demonstrators — Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis — intensified opposition to Trump’s immigration approach.
Department officials maintain their officers only use force when absolutely necessary and have criticized activists and politicians for escalating tensions through inflammatory statements about federal agents.
Mullin will also likely answer questions regarding FEMA’s future, as the disaster relief agency undergoes significant restructuring after Trump expressed interest in major reforms or potentially eliminating it entirely.
Noem headed a Trump-created FEMA Review Council tasked with proposing major changes to how the federal government assists states, tribes and territories with disaster preparation, response and recovery. These proposed reforms could significantly reduce federal disaster assistance while placing greater responsibility on local governments.
Additionally, Noem required her personal approval for all contracts exceeding $100,000, creating substantial delays for states seeking reimbursement for disaster-related expenses like debris cleanup.
Following the departure of two acting FEMA administrators during Noem’s leadership, the agency remains without permanent leadership.
Trump announced Noem’s new role as special envoy for a Western Hemisphere security initiative. Noem expressed gratitude for the appointment and highlighted what she called “historic accomplishments” at DHS in strengthening American security.
Drivers traveling through a section of Federal School Lane should plan for potential delays due to ongoing traffic control operations in the area.
According to Delaware Department of Transportation officials, flagging personnel are directing traffic along Federal School Lane in the stretch between Chaddwyck Boulevard and River Road, also known as Route 9.
The traffic management operation is expected to continue until 3:30 PM today, with motorists advised to allow extra travel time when using this route.
DelDOT recommends drivers consider alternate routes if possible to avoid potential congestion in the affected area.
Motorists traveling eastbound on Woodrow Road should expect delays and plan alternate routes as officials have closed the right lane between Route 202 and Sharpless Road.
According to DelDOT traffic reports, the lane restriction will remain active until 5 PM today. Drivers are advised to use caution when traveling through the work zone and allow extra time for their commute.
The traffic advisory affects the stretch of roadway connecting Route 202 to Sharpless Road in the eastbound direction only.
A new audio program from SRN News is offering listeners a quick daily briefing on religious news happening worldwide. The feature, called “Global Landscape,” runs for two minutes each day and covers the most important faith-related stories from across the globe.
The program focuses on bringing audiences up-to-date information about religious developments, changes in various cultures, and important events where faith intersects with world affairs. According to SRN News, the segment is designed to give listeners valuable perspective on how religion continues to influence global events and society.
Federal officials conducted their first auction of drilling rights in Alaska’s National Petroleum Reserve on Wednesday since the last sale took place in 2019, marking another opportunity to gauge energy companies’ interest in the challenging Alaskan market.
The Bureau of Land Management made available 600 parcels spanning 5.5 million acres to petroleum companies during the auction. Officials opened and announced the winning bids through a live broadcast on the agency’s website beginning at 10 a.m. Alaska time.
This auction represents the initial offering among at least five that are required under President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, legislation he enacted last year. The current administration has prioritized boosting domestic energy production while rolling back drilling limitations that were implemented during the Biden presidency in the Alaska reserve.
However, energy companies have shown limited enthusiasm for acquiring drilling permits in Alaska during recent years. Operating in the state presents significant challenges, requiring decades-long commitments and investments reaching into the billions. Companies completely avoided a recent auction for offshore drilling permits in Alaska’s Cook Inlet earlier this month.
The reserve, commonly called NPR-A, encompasses 23 million acres and was established for petroleum exploration during the 1970s to combat energy supply issues.
When the most recent NPR-A auction occurred in 2019, companies submitted $11.3 million worth of winning proposals for 1.05 million acres.
Alaska government leaders and certain indigenous communities back petroleum development because it generates tax income and employment opportunities. Environmental advocates contend that energy extraction harms wildlife habitats for animals including polar bears and caribou.
Department store chain Macy’s announced Wednesday that it expects lower annual profits than previously anticipated as consumers continue to tighten their spending habits amid ongoing economic pressures.
The retail giant joins other major chains including Walmart and Kohl’s in adopting a conservative outlook for the coming year, reflecting concerns about American consumers’ financial strain.
Company executives said they are taking a “prudent approach” when planning for the future, pointing to economic and international political factors that could further impact how much customers are willing to spend.
Following the announcement, Macy’s stock dropped 2% during pre-market trading hours.
Under CEO Tony Spring’s leadership, the company has been working to attract higher-income customers as a strategy to boost sales, while budget-conscious shoppers continue to feel the squeeze from rising prices and economic instability.
The retailer projects annual adjusted earnings will fall between $1.90 and $2.10 per share, a decrease from last year’s $2.15 and below Wall Street analysts’ predictions of $2.17 per share, based on LSEG data.
Import tariff costs are expected to squeeze profit margins during the first six months of the year, with the heaviest impact anticipated in the opening quarter.
Because Macy’s depends heavily on Chinese manufacturing, the company faces significant exposure to import taxes. Although Washington has implemented a standard 10% tariff rate following a Supreme Court decision that eliminated broader U.S. duties, retailers may still experience short-term financial pressure from inventory purchased at previously higher tariff rates.
Looking ahead to 2026, the company anticipates net sales between $21.4 billion and $21.7 billion, representing a decline from 2025’s $21.8 billion. This projection aligns closely with analysts’ expectations of $21.42 billion.
During the fourth quarter, Macy’s total sales decreased 1.7% to $7.64 billion compared to the same period last year, though this figure exceeded analysts’ projected $7.62 billion, boosted by strong holiday shopping activity.
The main Macy’s brand experienced a 3.2% sales decline, partially due to store closures, while comparable store sales managed a 0.4% increase. The company’s premium divisions showed stronger performance, with Bloomingdale’s achieving 8.5% sales growth and Bluemercury rising 2.5%.
A recent survey examining mothers and their church participation has uncovered interesting patterns in worship attendance. The study, conducted by Motherhood Today, discovered that approximately 50% of mothers cite spiritual growth as their primary motivation for regular church attendance, with learning about God ranking as the second most important factor.
When evaluating their church experiences, participating mothers expressed strong appreciation for small group programs but indicated they would welcome enhanced mental health resources and more targeted support for mothers. Research suggests that when mothers feel welcomed and supported in their religious communities, they’re more inclined to ensure their children participate in services as well.
In related findings, the Pew Research Center has published new data on worldwide religious diversity, identifying Singapore as the nation with the greatest variety of different faiths practiced within its borders. Suriname and Taiwan secured second and third positions respectively in this global ranking.
The United States landed in 32nd place overall for religious diversity, though it tops the list among the world’s most populous nations, with Nigeria and Russia following behind. Countries with predominantly Muslim populations in Middle Eastern and African regions showed the lowest levels of religious diversity. Researchers note that religious diversity often correlates with religious freedom, as more restrictive governments typically suppress diverse faith practices.
In concerning international news, Dutch authorities have filed terrorism charges against four teenagers suspected of detonating an explosive device outside a Rotterdam synagogue. According to the Rotterdam Public Prosecutor’s office, the adolescents face accusations of “causing an explosion, arson and attempted arson, all with the intent of instilling fear in the Jewish community.” Fortunately, no injuries resulted from this incident.
Jewish religious sites worldwide have experienced heightened security concerns and multiple attacks following joint U.S.-Israeli military operations against Iran that began February 28th. Just last week, two individuals triggered an explosion near a Jewish educational facility in Amsterdam, drawing immediate criticism from municipal leaders and Jewish organizations.
Finally, new data from LifeWay Research examining Bible reading habits among regular churchgoers shows that 31% engage with scripture daily. An additional 30% report reading the Bible several times weekly, though not every day. Among remaining regular attendees, 14% read weekly, 11% multiple times monthly, and 5% once per month. Surprisingly, 9% of consistent worship attendees report never opening the Bible. Encouragingly, regular scripture reading has actually increased compared to two decades ago, though evangelical leadership continues to identify biblical illiteracy as a significant challenge facing modern churches.
A comprehensive new research study from the Pew Research Center has revealed distinct patterns in how Americans allocate their daily time based on gender, examining everything from professional responsibilities to physical fitness and leisure activities. The findings show particularly striking differences when it comes to religious and community engagement, where women consistently dedicate more time than their male counterparts. This gap becomes even more pronounced with age, according to the research data. Among Americans who have reached their seventies, women typically devote approximately 35 minutes each day to faith-based or community service activities, while men in the same age group average about 27 minutes daily for these pursuits.
A recent survey by the Pew Research Center reveals that most Americans don’t view gambling as a moral issue. The research found that seven out of ten people in the United States believe wagering does not go against their moral principles. This stands in stark contrast to attitudes in other nations, where gambling faces much stronger moral opposition. In South Korea, nearly 8 out of 10 adults view gambling as morally wrong, while similar majorities in Nigeria at 72% and Greece at 66% share this disapproval. As March brings the NCAA basketball tournament, experts predict a significant increase in betting activity across the country.
A recent study conducted by LifeWay Research shows a significant increase in Protestant church members who actively utilize their spiritual abilities to benefit their communities and serve their faith. According to the research findings, 68% of Protestant churchgoers now report making deliberate efforts to use their talents to “serve God and others.”
This represents a notable jump from 2012, when only 58% of survey participants expressed the same commitment to service-oriented faith practices.
Scott McConnell, a representative from LifeWay, explained the significance of these findings. “Jesus prescribed a life that focuses on loving God and others, and this is actively shown in serving others. Most churchgoers embrace this goal,” McConnell stated.
Research from the Barna Group reveals that a majority of Americans regularly consume faith-based media content, with 60 percent of adults accessing Christian programming or publications in some form. According to the study, approximately half of these viewers tune in at least weekly.
The findings show that two-thirds of respondents consider Christian media sources to be reliable and trustworthy. However, the research also uncovered some concerns among regular viewers.
The Barna report notes that “engagement brings scrutiny. Among heavy consumers, 45 percent say the content can be divisive and 40 percent say it sometimes makes Christians ‘look bad.’”
The study highlights the complex relationship between faith-based media consumption and audience perceptions, showing that while most Americans trust these sources, regular viewers are more critical of certain content approaches.
Good morning, Delmarva! We’re looking at a pleasant spring day ahead with partly sunny skies and temperatures climbing to a comfortable 41 degrees. You’ll want to keep that jacket handy though, as northerly winds will be picking up at 5 to 10 mph, adding a bit of crispness to the air.
No weather worries today – it’s shaping up to be a great day to get outside and enjoy some fresh air! Just remember we’re still in that transitional spring weather pattern, so layering is your friend.
Tonight, expect mostly clear skies as temperatures dip down to around 30 degrees. It’ll be a chilly one, so you might want to bring any sensitive plants inside or cover them up.
Looking ahead to Thursday, we’ve got some good news! Mostly sunny skies return with temperatures bouncing back nicely to around 50 degrees – much more spring-like! Thursday night will see increasing clouds with lows settling near 36 degrees.
Enjoy this beautiful Wednesday, Delmarva, and I’ll see you back here tomorrow with your updated forecast!
WASHINGTON – Oklahoma Republican Senator Markwayne Mullin will appear Wednesday before a Senate committee seeking confirmation as the nation’s next Homeland Security Secretary, facing questions about immigration policies and national security matters.
The nomination comes after President Trump dismissed former Secretary Kristi Noem amid growing criticism over the department’s immigration enforcement approach. Mullin has consistently supported Trump’s strict immigration stance throughout his congressional career.
Democratic senators have withheld funding for the Department of Homeland Security since mid-February, demanding changes to current immigration practices. The funding dispute has resulted in a partial agency shutdown.
Trump initiated an intensive deportation campaign upon returning to office in 2025. Though the administration characterizes the effort as targeting dangerous criminals, arrests have included individuals with clean records, along with children and families.
During Noem’s tenure, federal agents conducted major enforcement operations in cities including Los Angeles and Chicago. These operations involved masked officers using aggressive tactics, including tackling workers in parking areas and deploying tear gas in residential neighborhoods while citizens attempted to record the activities. The militaristic approach sparked legal challenges and widespread criticism.
Following a January incident in Minneapolis where federal immigration officers fatally shot two American citizens, the administration promised a more focused strategy. However, Democrats maintain their funding opposition until enforcement methods change.
Trump replaced Noem earlier this month as Republican lawmakers increasingly criticized both the immigration crackdown and her departmental leadership. Mullin previously served ten years in the House of Representatives before winning his Senate seat in 2022.
The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee hearing provides Mullin an opportunity to outline his leadership approach and address concerns about his predecessor’s management.
Committee ranking Democrat Gary Peters of Michigan plans to criticize Noem’s response to the Minneapolis shooting, according to prepared statements obtained by Reuters.
“It’s not the role of the secretary to be a cable news commentator in the wake of a crisis,” Peters said.
Mullin, who previously operated a family plumbing company, ranks among the Senate’s wealthiest members. His 2024 financial disclosure revealed assets between $29 million and $97 million. Recent years show millions in stock transactions, though a spokesperson notes he employs an independent firm for portfolio management in accordance with federal regulations.
During his 2012 House campaign, Mullin faced Democratic criticism regarding employment of a convicted felon with firearm access at his plumbing operation. Opponents also questioned whether the business utilized E-Verify, the federal system confirming workers’ legal immigration status.
White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson stated this week there was “no indication Mullin did anything inappropriate” concerning the felon issue and confirmed “none of his businesses ever employed workers without legal status.”
As a Cherokee Nation member, Mullin became only the fourth Native American senator upon his election victory.
Wednesday’s confirmation hearing begins at 9:30 a.m. Eastern time.
WASHINGTON – As midterm elections approach, Senate Republicans are employing a calculated political strategy, attempting to characterize Democrats as enablers of electoral misconduct through their opposition to President Trump’s voter identification legislation.
The proposed SAVE America Act, which has Trump’s backing, would mandate proof of American citizenship when registering to vote and require photo identification for ballot casting. However, the measure faces certain defeat in the Senate, where Republicans cannot secure the necessary 60 votes from the chamber’s 100 members.
Anticipating Democratic resistance to the proposal, Trump’s congressional supporters have launched an extended floor discussion designed to emphasize Democratic opposition to photo voting requirements – a concept that enjoys widespread public support across party lines, polling data indicates.
Senator John Barrasso, who serves as the chamber’s second-ranking Republican, explained their approach to reporters: “We’re going to put every one of them on the record so that everyone in America knows that Republicans support voter ID and Democrats are the party of open borders and illegal voters.”
The Republican messaging echoes Trump’s unsubstantiated assertions that significant numbers of undocumented immigrants participate in American elections.
However, federal law already prohibits non-citizen voting in national elections. Government audits of voter registration databases and research conducted by organizations across the political spectrum confirm that such illegal voting occurs extremely infrequently. The Constitution delegates election administration responsibilities to state and local authorities.
Democratic lawmakers argue against the legislation, contending its restrictions target a non-existent problem. They further assert the requirements could prevent millions of Americans from voting, particularly women, racial minorities, and economically disadvantaged citizens who may struggle to obtain passports, birth certificates, and other documentation needed to verify citizenship.
Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer criticized the SAVE America Act during Tuesday’s floor proceedings, calling it “a pernicious, radical bill” and pledging his party would prevent its passage.
The House approved the legislation by a narrow margin last month. Political observers suggest the bill could serve as justification for Trump and Republicans to claim that any narrow defeats in November resulted from fraudulent voting.
Walter Olson, a senior fellow at the libertarian Cato Institute, noted: “It seamlessly introduces an excuse for losing the midterms. It is also a possible rationalization for intervening in some way.”
Trump and his congressional allies are already pointing to Democratic opposition as proof of intended voter fraud, claiming Democrats seek non-citizen votes in November.
The Republican Party confronts a midterm campaign environment that traditionally disadvantages the incumbent president’s party, threatening Republican hopes of maintaining their narrow House majority. Democrats are capitalizing on voter dissatisfaction with economic conditions and concerns about an escalating conflict with Iran that has driven oil prices above $100 per barrel.
Political analysts believe Democrats have favorable prospects for House control, while Republican divisions in Texas have created possibilities for reduced Senate representation, though few anticipate Democratic control of that chamber.
Chris Williams, a voting expert at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, suggests the SAVE America Act targets anti-establishment voters who respond to claims of institutional corruption and contributed to Trump’s presidential victories in 2016 and 2024.
This voting bloc represents a substantial portion of the electorate. Reuters/Ipsos polling conducted before the 2024 election revealed that 44% of American adults worried about “large numbers of non-citizens voting,” including 82% of Republicans, 44% of independents, and 15% of Democrats.
Should Republicans experience losses, Olson warned that Trump might attempt to interfere with ballot handling procedures before states certify results. The defeated legislation could provide justification for intervention against Democratic victories “because they wouldn’t address fraud.”
While Congress debates the SAVE America Act, Trump’s Justice Department is pursuing legal action against 29 states, including Republican-controlled Utah and Oklahoma, for failing to provide voter registration records. Attorney General Pam Bondi stated these records are necessary to maintain election integrity.
Trump has indicated he would pursue voter ID mandates through executive action if Congress fails to act.
Representative Joe Morelle, the leading Democrat on the House Administration Committee overseeing elections, emphasized: “Fundamentally, these are the American people’s elections. They’re not Donald Trump’s. They’re not the Republican Party’s. They’re not the Democratic Party’s.”
“When the American people recognize the president is trying to shut down or stop the work of election officials, I think there’s going to be an enormous outcry,” Morelle added.
Coffee industry specialists are warning that the popular beverage may follow the same dramatic price trajectory as cocoa, which experienced a severe market crash after reaching unprecedented heights in 2024.
These predictions dominated conversations during the National Coffee Association’s recent annual gathering in Tampa, Florida, where market watchers debated whether coffee would mirror cocoa’s steep decline.
“I would be shocked if it did not happen,” stated Carley Garner, who serves as senior commodities strategist at DeCarley Trading, a Zaner division. “I do think coffee is the new cocoa,” she added.
The cocoa market provides a cautionary tale for coffee traders. New York cocoa futures soared to unprecedented levels exceeding $12,000 per ton in December 2024 due to adverse weather conditions that severely limited production in key growing regions. However, within just over a year, cocoa values tumbled more than 70% as buyers reduced purchases of premium chocolate products and manufacturers responded by shrinking package sizes or substituting less expensive ingredients.
Coffee has experienced a similar pattern, with arabica varieties climbing due to unfavorable tropical weather that disrupted harvests. The commodity reached its highest point ever in February 2025 and remained elevated as President Donald Trump’s trade tariffs created market distortions. Expectations of a strong production rebound in Brazil, the world’s leading coffee producer, have since pushed prices downward.
“I think coffee prices will be at $2 (per pound) by the end of the year,” Garner predicted, noting that elevated costs are dampening consumer appetite.
Digby Beatson-Hird, who analyzes coffee markets for Avere Commodities, anticipates an even steeper drop to $1.80 per pound this year. Tuesday’s closing price stood at nearly $2.93 per pound.
Consumer behavior data supports these bearish forecasts. A National Coffee Association survey of 1,500 Americans conducted in January revealed that 61% of participants had taken steps to reduce their coffee expenses. Many decreased their coffeehouse visits and increased home brewing, while others opted for less expensive brands. Despite these cost-cutting measures, overall coffee consumption levels remained stable, the NCA reported.
The coffee trade has adapted to market pressures, according to David Behrends, who serves as managing partner and head of trading at Sucafina SA, among the globe’s largest coffee trading companies.
Higher-priced mild arabica varieties from Colombia and Central America have surrendered market position, he explained, while less expensive robusta beans have gained ground.
Carlos Mera, Rabobank’s chief coffee analyst, noted that coffee consumption stagnated in 2025, marking the first year without growth compared to the historical annual increase of 2.3% recorded before the pandemic.
Mera anticipates that coffee’s recent price decline will eventually benefit consumers and stimulate demand recovery. He projects a 2% consumption increase for 2026.
The demand patterns reveal significant differences between coffee and cocoa markets, which may explain why some analysts question whether coffee will experience cocoa’s dramatic price collapse.
Even Brazil’s anticipated record harvest may not provide substantial price relief, market experts suggested.
Brazilian growers maintain strong financial positions and plan to sell their crops gradually, likely retaining portions to rebuild their inventories, explained Cleber Castro, who represents numerous Brazilian farms as a sales representative.
WASHINGTON – Major financial institutions appear poised for a regulatory victory as the Trump administration prepares to announce revised bank capital requirements that will be less stringent than previously proposed, though several obstacles could still delay final implementation.
Federal banking regulators plan to release updated proposals on Thursday that will require large banks to maintain slightly lower capital reserves, according to Federal Reserve Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle Bowman’s announcement last week. This represents a dramatic shift from the original 2023 proposal that would have forced some major banks to increase their capital buffers by as much as 20 percent.
The updated regulations will modify the so-called “Basel” rules and “GSIB surcharge” requirements, changing how financial institutions calculate the funds they must set aside to cover potential losses. These changes come after an intensive multi-year lobbying effort by Wall Street firms to roll back post-2008 financial crisis regulations they claim are hampering economic growth, though opponents argue the modifications could weaken protections at a time of increasing global and credit market risks.
Despite banks moving closer to their desired outcome, industry experts and analysts predict the intricate approval process could extend through most of the year as financial institutions examine detailed provisions and regulators work through various complications, including potential changes in Federal Reserve leadership and White House oversight.
“You’re going to get several hundred pages, possibly a thousand pages of documents,” explained Ian Katz, managing director at Capital Alpha Partners. “There’s just going to be so much to go over, and some of it is highly technical.”
While Bowman indicated the agencies intend to move swiftly, Truist Securities analysts predicted last week that final rules likely won’t be completed until early 2027.
The Basel framework establishes international capital standards, determining how banks must allocate resources for credit, market, and operational risks. Michael Barr, Bowman’s Democratic predecessor, introduced the initial draft in July 2023, citing the Silicon Valley Bank failure earlier that year as justification for increased capital requirements affecting more than 30 institutions with assets exceeding $100 billion.
Banking executives argued they already maintained adequate capital levels and mounted an unprecedented opposition campaign, threatening legal action and gaining support from numerous lawmakers while creating disagreement among regulatory agencies. This resistance successfully pushed the issue into the current administration, which has generally aligned with industry positions.
Bowman stated last week that the modifications would better align requirements with actual risk levels.
The revised Basel proposal eliminates several provisions that banks strongly opposed, including a requirement to follow the more restrictive of two risk capital calculation methods, which particularly disadvantaged major trading firms. The new version will also be more lenient toward fee-generating operations, such as credit card businesses, that faced strict new operational risk standards.
However, banks continue seeking clarification on other contentious matters, including the degree to which they can utilize internal models for market risk assessment rather than regulator-prescribed models, and capital requirements for non-publicly traded securities.
The Federal Reserve also intends to modify the GSIB surcharge applied to the eight highest-risk global U.S. banks by updating economic factors and adjusting short-term funding risk calculations.
Financial institutions facing the largest GSIB surcharges, including JPMorgan, Bank of America, Citigroup, Goldman Sachs, and Morgan Stanley, may see benefits, according to some analysts, though industry officials caution that impacts could vary significantly between firms.
“Not all large banks are the same,” noted Brian Gardner, chief Washington policy strategist at Stifel, adding that industry reaction will depend on how the proposal affects particular business lines.
The new proposals may also face political hurdles. Banks will have 90 days to submit comments to the agencies, which must jointly approve any additional modifications. At the Federal Reserve, this requires approval from its bipartisan board, where Democratic members might oppose a final version they consider too lenient, according to industry sources.
The rules will also need endorsement from Kevin Warsh, Trump’s nominee to replace Fed Chair Jerome Powell. While Warsh hasn’t publicly addressed the capital rule changes, he generally supports reduced regulation. Under a 2025 Trump executive order, the final rule must undergo White House Budget Office review, creating another potential complication.
Nevertheless, with banks and regulators now aligned, University of Michigan professor Jeremy Kress believes it should be “much easier” for regulators to complete the process.
While President Trump and Republican lawmakers anticipate that rising fuel costs from the Iran crisis will be brief enough to avoid political damage in November’s elections, energy market experts and industry specialists warn that Americans may face sustained high prices at gas stations long after any resolution is reached.
The ongoing conflict has caused crude oil prices to spike, with U.S. oil surpassing $100 per barrel for the first time since the 2022 conflict between Russia and Ukraine began. Diesel fuel has climbed beyond $5 per gallon, reaching levels not seen since the end of 2022. These increases largely result from Iran’s strategic blocking of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway that typically handles about 20% of the world’s oil transportation.
The President has consistently maintained that increased energy expenses represent a reasonable cost for eliminating Iran as a threat. During Tuesday’s remarks, he once again forecasted that energy prices would “drop like a rock” following the conflict’s conclusion.
However, market futures, official government projections, and anticipated summer driving season demand all indicate that oil and gasoline costs will remain elevated even after tensions subside, according to industry experts who note that energy prices historically decrease at a slower pace than they increase.
Matt Smith, who analyzes energy markets for consulting firm Kpler, explained: “It’s going to take time for those prices to come back down.”
Should gasoline costs remain high throughout the summer months, voters may hold Trump’s Republican Party responsible for increased household expenses and penalize GOP candidates during November’s midterm contests. Recent polling indicates Americans are increasingly concerned about living costs. Economic affordability represents a crucial advantage for Democrats, who have opportunities to gain House control and reduce Republican Senate dominance.
While Trump has consistently leveraged social media platforms and presidential communications to influence public opinion, gasoline pricing proves particularly challenging to reframe politically, according to Chris Borick, who studies polling and political science at Pennsylvania’s Muhlenberg College.
Borick noted: “It’s the most in-your-face reminder of affordability concerns, and it’s almost impossible to convince voters of some kind of contextual case that outweighs their emotional reaction.”
White House representative Taylor Rogers defended the administration’s position, stating Trump has been “right about everything,” including oil market predictions.
“Once the military objectives of Operation Epic Fury are completed and the Iranian terrorist regime is neutralized, oil and gas prices will drop rapidly—potentially even lower this before the strikes began,” Rogers declared.
The Energy Information Administration significantly increased its energy price forecasts this month. Current projections show Brent crude averaging approximately $79 per barrel in 2026, representing a 37% increase from the previous $58 estimate, while retail gasoline is expected to average $3.34 per gallon, up nearly 15% from earlier predictions.
Looking ahead to 2027, updated government forecasts project global oil prices roughly 22% higher and domestic gasoline costs about 8.4% above previous estimates, highlighting expectations that supply constraints and geopolitical tensions may maintain elevated energy expenses for years ahead.
Commodity trading markets reflect similar trends, with delivery contracts extending into next year priced above earlier 2026 levels.
According to LSEG data, U.S. crude futures have averaged $68.10 per barrel year-to-date but are projected to average $85.25 for the remaining 2026 period and $71.35 in 2027, compared to approximately $64.70 per barrel in 2025.
Rabobank energy strategist Florence Schmit emphasized that any market stabilization would occur gradually.
“Even if they signed a peace deal tomorrow, it would take months before we see a full resumption of traffic and energy flows,” she explained, suggesting prices might decline to the mid-to-high $70s range by year’s end.
American motorists are experiencing immediate effects. Tuesday’s national average for regular gasoline reached $3.79 per gallon, up from $3.54 one week prior and $2.92 a month ago, based on industry tracking. Current prices show sharp increases from $3.08 twelve months ago, demonstrating broader inflationary trends in energy sectors and reduced crude availability.
Since the February 28 conflict beginning, Trump has examined various approaches to reduce price pressures, with Chief of Staff Susie Wiles leading coordination efforts, according to Reuters reporting.
The current administration has implemented multiple measures to counter supply disruptions and stabilize global markets, including relaxing specific sanctions on Russian energy exports to increase available crude and coordinating with international partners for an unprecedented strategic petroleum reserve release.
The approximately 200 million barrel release from America’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve will occur over multiple months, restricting its immediate price impact.
Spring vacation season has turned into a travel nightmare for countless passengers who are stuck at airports across the country due to extended security screening delays combined with harsh weather conditions that hit earlier this week.
The peak spring break period has brought a perfect storm of travel complications, with Transportation Security Administration checkpoints experiencing significant backup times while adverse weather patterns have compounded the delays for vacationers trying to reach their destinations.
Travelers hoping to escape for their spring getaways are instead finding themselves waiting in terminals as the dual challenges of overwhelmed security processes and weather-related flight disruptions create widespread airport congestion during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
