Allison Bloom

Donald Trump said Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Iran persuaded him to call off a planned major strike against Iran because they believed a diplomatic agreement was possible. He said negotiations would begin the following afternoon, potentially addressing the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear program. Gulf officials reportedly urged stronger US action, while the UAE strengthened its defenses and conducted strikes against Iran. An Iranian source rejected Trump's account as a lie and denied that any agreement over the waterway had been reached.

Donald Trump shared another AI-generated image on Truth Social featuring historical symbols and unusual elements like a robot, prompting users to question its authenticity. Grok, X’s AI chatbot, identified it as digitally created. Users responded by creating altered versions, including one featuring Jeffrey Epstein. Trump has repeatedly posted AI-generated depictions of himself in various exaggerated scenarios. Kenny Loggins condemned the use of his song in an AI video promoting division. Large No Kings protests drew significant turnout, while Trump’s approval rating continues to fall in recent polling.

Rescue teams in Venezuela recovered a newborn alive from rubble following two major earthquakes that devastated communities and left around 50,000 people missing. International teams, including American search and rescue units, continue urgent efforts as official deaths surpass 1,450 with thousands more injured. Additional survivors, including two 11‑year‑old boys, were pulled from debris as authorities warn the window for finding people alive is closing. Aid groups such as World Vision and the Global Empowerment Mission are mobilising relief support for affected regions, especially hard‑hit La Guaira.