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IBTimes UK
Aug 2026
Teacher Fired for Blaming Campus Bullying on 'His Majesty, King Trump' Sues School District for Millions
Veteran Beverly Hills history teacher Joanie Garratt is suing the Beverly Hills Unified School District, alleging she was unlawfully fired after criticizing alleged bullying and racial harassment at a pro-Trump student rally and referring to Donald Trump as “His Majesty, King Trump.” Her lawyer argues the Facebook post was constitutionally protected political speech, while the district has not publicly explained its decision or responded to the allegations. Garratt seeks damages reportedly amounting to millions for lost income and emotional distress, but the claims have not been adjudicated and key facts—including the post’s visibility and any discipline imposed on students—remain unclear.
IBTimes UK
Aug 2026
‘Dirt He Dished Out’: Prince William Reportedly ‘Will Never Forgive’ Prince Harry Following Spare and Netflix
Royal commentator Phil Dampier claims Prince William may never forgive Prince Harry for allegations and criticism in Harry’s memoir Spare, the Sussexes’ Netflix documentary series and their interview with Oprah Winfrey. Dampier says William is focused on Princess Catherine and their children and is unlikely to reunite with Harry, including at events marking Princess Diana’s 30th death anniversary. Harry is reportedly hoping King Charles III will attend the 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham, but royal attendance remains unconfirmed. Kensington Palace has not commented, so the brothers’ private relationship cannot be independently verified.
IBTimes UK
Aug 2026
GTA 6 Sales Breakdown: Ultimate Edition Pre-Orders Take 89% Share Ahead of November 2026 Launch
Sensor Tower data cited by Karl Kontus indicates that 89% of tracked Grand Theft Auto 6 pre-orders are for the Ultimate Edition, rising to 90% on Xbox and 88.5% on PlayStation. The unusually high premium-tier share contrasts with the typical 10–20% share for comparable editions and is attributed to intense franchise loyalty, Rockstar's reputation, and the inclusion of extra content. Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick has confirmed that pre-orders are skewing toward the premium version, but Rockstar has not released audited sales data or shown full gameplay. Pricing, physical-copy restrictions and possible expiry policies have prompted criticism, while analysts expect the cheaper edition to gain ground when more casual buyers enter the market closer to the planned November 2026 launch.
IBTimes UK
Aug 2026
The Elder Scrolls 6 Sentinel Subtitle: How Starfield Employee Code Revealed Bethesda Easter Egg
Fans speculate that The Elder Scrolls 6 may be subtitled “Sentinel,” based on an eight-asterisk reference attributed to ZeniMax CEO Asha Sharma, the reported internal codename “Guardian,” and a Starfield employee number that converts to the letters SENTINEL. The name also corresponds to a major city and kingdom in Elder Scrolls lore and would follow the series’ precedent of using locations as titles. Bethesda has not confirmed the subtitle, so the theory remains unverified.
IBTimes UK
Aug 2026
Dana White Claims Ian Machado Garry Could Have Won at UFC 330 With an 'Ounce of Killer Instinct'
Islam Makhachev retained the UFC welterweight title at UFC 330 by unanimous decision, extending his UFC winning streak to a record 17 fights. Ian Machado Garry struggled with Makhachev's grappling early but improved his takedown defense and striking in the later rounds. UFC CEO Dana White argued that Garry could have won had he shown more aggression and an “ounce of killer instinct,” while Makhachev credited Garry's improvement and preparation with Demian Maia. Garry's next fight remains undecided, with contenders including Carlos Prates, Michael Morales and Shavkat Rakhmonov also seeking a title opportunity.
IBTimes UK
Aug 2026
Insider Claims Sheriff's 'Favoured Son' Removed Senior Detectives From Missing Nancy Guthrie Probe
Pima County deputies' union president Aaron Cross claims two of the sheriff's department's most experienced homicide detectives were transferred to the Cold Case Unit after refusing a commander's demand to arrest a suspect without sufficient probable cause. He argues that the earlier transfers, along with the appointment of an inexperienced homicide sergeant and relatively junior detectives, weakened the department before Nancy Guthrie disappeared. The allegations have not been independently confirmed, and Cross has a history of criticizing Sheriff Chris Nanos. The sheriff maintains that the investigation remains active, while broader reporting has raised concerns about coordination, evidence handling and investigator experience.
IBTimes UK
Aug 2026
Melania Trump 'Body Double' Theory Reignites as Sleuths Target 'Most Beautiful' Aide Margo Martin
Online speculation revived the longstanding theory that Melania Trump is sometimes replaced by a body double after Donald Trump was photographed with a woman some users claimed was aide Margo Martin. The claims rely on appearance, clothing and sunglasses, but neither Melania, Martin nor the Trump team has confirmed them, and no independently verified evidence supports the theory. Melania's sparse public schedule and the visibility of Martin, who regularly travels with Trump as a communications aide, have helped fuel the narrative. The article traces the theory to 2017 and emphasizes that differences in photographs can result from lighting, camera angles, styling and ageing.
IBTimes UK
Aug 2026
US Servicemembers Left 'Dumbfounded' by 'Low Humming' Black Triangle Craft With Car-Sized Lights
A newly released tranche of US government UAP records includes reports of unidentified objects observed by military personnel, including a massive black triangular craft with car-sized lights and a low hum, as well as four-foot “cold orbs” reported during a 2021 exercise in the Gulf of Oman. The records remain unresolved and provide no verified evidence of extraterrestrial technology. The release is part of a transparency initiative promoted by Donald Trump and supported by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, while officials stress that unidentified objects are not necessarily alien or technologically extraordinary.
IBTimes UK
Aug 2026
Cardi B Targeted by Rogue Photographer Who Refused to Stop Throwing Tantrums on Set
A photographer, Steven Sands, was issued a disorderly-conduct summons after allegedly ignoring security and NYPD instructions at Cardi B’s permitted music-video shoot in Brooklyn. Sands said he was moved to an obstructed position and argued for a clearer vantage point, while witnesses and social-media footage portrayed a confrontation that ended with him in handcuffs before his release. Cardi B was not seen in the altercation, and her representatives have not commented. The incident attracted additional attention because of the rapper’s previous legal disputes and the ongoing civil lawsuit stemming from her 2023 microphone-throwing incident.
IBTimes UK
Aug 2026
Top Right-Wing Influencer Admits MAGA Is 'Dead' Because of Donald Trump and His 'Broken Promises'
Far-right influencer Nick Fuentes has declared the MAGA movement “dead,” blaming Donald Trump’s alleged broken promises on immigration, Iran and the Jeffrey Epstein controversy for demoralizing conservatives and blocking the rise of a successor movement. The article describes similar breaks with Trump by figures including Alex Jones, Marjorie Taylor Greene, Tucker Carlson and Candace Owens. It also cites polling showing Republicans trailing Democrats on the generic House ballot and losing their traditional advantages on the economy and national security, raising the prospect of significant GOP losses in the 2026 midterms. Meanwhile, left-wing populist and Democratic Socialist candidates are portrayed as gaining electoral momentum by emphasizing healthcare, housing, class and foreign-policy restraint. Fuentes’s claims about Trump’s motives and the movement’s collapse remain unverified, but his public denunciation is presented as evidence of deepening fractures within Trump’s coalition.
IBTimes UK
Aug 2026
Ariana Grande Weight Loss Backlash: Clinical Psychologist Explains Scrutiny Versus Concern
Ariana Grande’s decision to step back from public visibility follows sustained online speculation about her body and health. Clinical psychologist Vivienne Lewis distinguishes voyeuristic scrutiny, which judges appearance and attempts to diagnose from images, from genuine concern focused on a person’s behavior, mood and wellbeing. The article emphasizes that eating disorders affect people of all body sizes and that weight stigma can worsen mental health and delay treatment. It recommends discussing behavioral changes privately and compassionately, listening without diagnosing, and encouraging professional help rather than commenting on weight or appearance.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
“No Way to Stop It”: Elon Musk Warns Humans Will Lose Control of AI and Face Extinction by 2036
Elon Musk told The Economist that AI could surpass individual human intelligence as soon as next year, exceed the combined intelligence of humanity within about five years, and leave humans without meaningful control by 2036. He estimated the chance of AI-driven human extinction at 10–20% while arguing that the technology’s momentum cannot realistically be stopped. The analysis links these warnings to Musk’s cryptocurrency interests, suggesting that Bitcoin’s fixed supply, decentralized governance and lack of human intermediaries could make it attractive in a future dominated by autonomous AI systems. However, the article acknowledges that this connection is interpretive and that Musk’s forecasts remain unconfirmed speculation.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
NYC Women Earn Up to $30,000 a Month Renting Out Wardrobes to Strangers via Peer-to-Peer App Pickle
Pickle, a peer-to-peer fashion rental app founded in New York in 2021, has expanded across all 50 US states and now offers more than 500,000 listings. New York users are turning unused clothing, accessories and other items into microbusinesses: Kat Friday earns about $7,000 a month and manages 25 to 30 weekly orders, while another seller earns $2,000 to $3,000 monthly from weddingwear. Pickle says its top seller made $30,000 in one month. The company targets Gen Z and millennials seeking luxury fashion at lower prices, relying on shipping, word of mouth and influencer marketing to grow. It has raised $20 million and faces competition from Rent the Runway, Nuuly and The RealReal, while its founders argue that its peer-to-peer model creates a more accessible gateway to luxury ownership.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
Stephen Curry Trade Rumours: Golden State Warriors Star Eligible for Extension on 29 August
Stephen Curry becomes eligible for a new Golden State Warriors extension on 29 August, with one year and $62 million remaining on his current contract. The article says Golden State's injury problems and reluctance to trade first-round picks have fueled speculation that Curry could eventually seek a move if the team no longer appears committed to contention, although there is no confirmation that he is unhappy or wants out. Charlotte, Minnesota, Denver, New York and Philadelphia are mentioned as hypothetical destinations. The wider NBA trade market is also shaped by luxury-tax pressures, second-apron restrictions and uncertainty surrounding several veteran and younger players.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
How Did Saudi Prince Abdullah Al Saud Die? Cause of Death Explained
A UK coroner concluded that Saudi Prince Abdullah Al Saud died of cardiac arrest after consuming alcohol alongside GHB and Xanax. He was found unresponsive in a Kensington Marriott bathroom on 25 November, with toxicology showing a blood alcohol concentration of 0.222% and no underlying illness to explain the collapse. The inquest found no evidence of suicide, foul play or deliberate planning, and heard that the prince had recently completed treatment for alcohol and drug misuse at clinics in London and Merseyside. The Saudi Royal Court subsequently confirmed his death.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
‘His Hippocampus Is Deteriorating’: Neuroscientist Re-Frames Donald Trump’s Behavioural Outbursts
Neuroscientist Frank George argues that Donald Trump's long-standing public behavioral patterns could be consistent with a neurodegenerative disorder, including frontotemporal dementia, and says institutions have been reluctant to discuss such patterns because of the American Psychiatric Association's Goldwater Rule. George has not examined Trump and does not make a formal diagnosis; his claims are based solely on public behavior. The article notes that Trump's doctors and a 2025 White House medical examination reported no neurological abnormalities, with Trump scoring 30 out of 30 on a cognitive assessment. The allegations therefore remain speculative and medically unconfirmed.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
'Many More Coming': Trump's DOJ Begins Quietly Stripping Citizenship from Naturalised Americans
The U.S. Department of Justice under Donald Trump initiated civil proceedings to revoke the citizenship of ten naturalised Americans accused of concealing serious criminal histories during their immigration processes. Officials framed the actions as necessary to protect the integrity of naturalisation, while senior Justice and Homeland Security personnel signalled that more cases are expected. The escalation comes amid wider scrutiny of aggressive immigration enforcement practices. Civil liberties advocates warn that expanded denaturalisation efforts could erode the security of citizenship for vulnerable migrant groups, while supporters argue the policy targets individuals who fraudulently obtained U.S. status. Outcomes will depend on the evidence presented as the cases advance through the courts.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
Florida GOP Civil War: Rick Wilson Details MAGA Coalition Split Ahead of Midterms
Rick Wilson argues that Florida’s Republican Party is fracturing ahead of the midterms, driven by divisions between pro-Trump, DeSantis-aligned, and Byron Donalds factions. He claims Democrats are gaining ground in statewide and congressional races, citing improved organization and fundraising. Wilson attributes Republican erosion to backlash over immigration policy changes affecting migrant communities and growing voter anger over AI data center projects tied to major tech donors. He warns that independent voters are turning against Donald Trump, weakening GOP prospects across the state.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
Country singer Bryan Andrews says anti-Trump stance is costing him his career and risking his safety
Country singer Bryan Andrews says criticism of Donald Trump has led to professional setbacks in Nashville and increased personal safety concerns, claiming his anti-MAGA stance has alienated industry gatekeepers and drawn threats. His posts challenge the alignment between conservative Christian values and MAGA politics, and he argues that speaking out has cost him radio support, touring opportunities and broader acceptance within the mainstream country scene. While his accusations of being blacklisted cannot be independently verified, he maintains that confronting Trump’s movement is a deeply personal choice despite the risks involved.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
Home Alone 2 Star Brenda Fricker Dies at 81, Cause of Death Not Disclosed
Oscar-winning Irish actor Brenda Fricker has died at 81, with no cause of death disclosed. Known internationally as the Pigeon Lady in Home Alone 2 and acclaimed for her Academy Award-winning role in My Left Foot, she was remembered by colleagues and officials as a central figure in Irish film and television. Tributes highlighted her cultural impact in Ireland, her wide-ranging career across stage, television, and film, and her status as a multigenerational presence in British and Irish media.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
'We Can See Your Greedy Side': 4,500 Google Workers Chant Outside Sundar Pichai's Office
Over 4,500 Google employees signed a petition demanding stronger layoff protections and delivered it to CEO Sundar Pichai’s office, criticizing the company for prioritizing profits despite record earnings. Organized by the Alphabet Workers Union, the petition calls for guaranteed severance, voluntary buyouts, paid‑leave options, and reform of performance ratings that workers say enable disguised layoffs. The action comes amid widespread tech‑sector job cuts linked to AI‑driven efficiency strategies by major firms including Microsoft, Meta, and Oracle. While Google’s rising valuation contrasts with internal anxieties over job security, executives like DeepMind’s Demis Hassabis argue AI should expand productivity rather than reduce staff. The petition signals growing worker pushback as the industry reevaluates long‑assumed job stability.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
Who Won the 2026 Home Run Derby and What Was Jordan Walker's Final Score?
Jordan Walker won the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park, hitting 12 home runs in the final and overtaking hometown favorite Kyle Schwarber with six consecutive homers on his final swings. The revamped swing‑based format created a pressure-filled finish that Walker capitalized on, securing the title and the $1 million prize. Schwarber finished with 11 home runs and earned $500,000 as runner‑up. Walker’s victory marked the first Derby win by a St. Louis Cardinals player and capped his breakout All-Star season.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
Trillion-Dollar Panic? Elon Musk Abruptly Halts Live TV Appearance as Fresh SpaceX Concerns Mount
Elon Musk unexpectedly postponed a scheduled CNBC interview during a critical period following SpaceX’s public market debut, prompting market speculation amid heightened investor sensitivity. SpaceX shares continued rising after their merger with xAI and bullish ratings from major banks, although the company remains in a fragile price‑discovery phase. Musk was expected to address SpaceX performance, Tesla, and xAI’s new Grok 4.5 model as competitors such as OpenAI and Meta unveiled new AI releases. With no explanation for the cancellation, analysts and social media users debated its significance, highlighting the tension between Musk’s unpredictable communication style and investor preference for structured disclosures.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
How Did Ann Widdecombe Die? Ex‑Tory Minister Suffered 'Catastrophic' Blunt‑Force Head Trauma in Her Kitchen
Ann Widdecombe, a former Conservative MP, was found dead in her Dartmoor home with severe blunt‑force head injuries, prompting a murder investigation by Devon and Cornwall Police. A welfare check initiated after she missed a television appearance led to the discovery. Initial suspicion involving a 26‑year‑old man was dismissed after his release, leaving detectives searching for an unidentified assailant seen on CCTV. Police are examining the lack of forced entry and the possibility that Widdecombe may have known her attacker. The investigation remains active as officers await post‑mortem findings and pursue leads on the violent assault.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
Kristi Noem, Bryon Noem Divorce Soon? How ICE Barbie's Mum Reportedly Confirmed Couple's Split to the Press
Kristi Noem’s mother reportedly stated that Noem and her husband Bryon Noem plan to divorce after months of public turmoil. Bryon Noem was implicated in an online scandal involving explicit messages and cross‑dressing images, while Kristi Noem continued to face allegations of an affair with Corey Lewandowski. Although no court filings confirm a divorce, the account suggests the decision was made earlier. The situation has further damaged Kristi Noem’s political standing, shifting focus from her policy record to personal controversies.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
'Exactly What We All Voted For': Marjorie Taylor Greene Bitterly Slams Trump Over Broken 'Forever War' Promise
Donald Trump declared the ceasefire with Iran over, signaling renewed confrontation after previously promising to end US involvement in 'forever wars.' The collapse of the agreement prompted criticism from former allies, most notably Marjorie Taylor Greene, who accused him of betraying anti‑interventionist voters. Market analysts warned of rising instability, and commentators suggested Trump's temper and political calculations were driving events. The backlash from figures once aligned with him highlighted growing fractures within his base as questions resurfaced about the administration's strategy and credibility regarding Iran.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
'GTA 6' Will Apparently Have NO Physical Discs in Cases, Leaving Gamers Furious Over 'Plastic Tat'
Rockstar Games faces backlash after promotional materials suggest physical copies of GTA 6 will ship without discs, offering only download codes inside plastic cases. A hidden 'Buy more useless shit' sticker in official artwork intensified criticism, with fans interpreting it as an ironic jab at the company's own distribution model. With no confirmation from Rockstar, the potential move reflects a broader industry trend toward digital-only releases, raising concerns about ownership, preservation, and consumer transparency.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
The COLA Trap: Why a Projected 3.8% Social Security Raise for 2027 Fast-Tracks a 22% Payout Cut
A projected 3.8% Social Security cost-of-living adjustment for 2027 could accelerate depletion of the program’s trust funds by raising long-term costs, potentially triggering an automatic 22% benefit cut unless Congress intervenes. Trustees report that expenses have exceeded income for years, forcing drawdowns of reserves expected to run out by 2032. While a large COLA would help retirees facing high living costs, it could deepen funding shortfalls. Lawmakers are expected to consider measures such as increasing payroll taxes or adjusting benefit formulas, while individuals may need to reassess retirement plans amid ongoing uncertainty.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
'GTA 6' synopsis hides massive psychological thriller plot twist, redditors claim
Fan speculation suggests the official synopsis of GTA 6 may conceal a darker, psychological thriller narrative involving manipulation and conspiracy, contrasting with its marketed high-energy crime setting. Reddit theories propose that the protagonists could be controlled by a hidden organization, shifting the story’s tone mid-game. Comparisons are drawn to narrative turns in Red Dead Redemption 2 and Cyberpunk 2077. Rockstar has given no indication of such themes, maintaining tight control over marketing, which fuels further theorizing as the November 2026 release approaches.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
Elon Musk's 'Chainsaw for Bureaucracy' Just Left an $11 Billion Budget Hole as Trump Rehires Staff
Elon Musk’s cost‑cutting initiative, the Department of Government Efficiency, expired on schedule but left an $11 billion federal budget gap and widespread staffing shortages across key U.S. agencies. The program pushed massive workforce reductions through payouts and firings, contributing to severe disruptions, especially within USAID. As Musk’s influence within the Trump administration faded, agencies began reversing cuts and rehiring tens of thousands of employees. The administration is now focused on restoring operational capacity while avoiding scrutiny of DOGE’s impact, leaving unresolved financial and humanitarian consequences.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
Donald Trump's Alleged UFO Briefings Explained: The Claims About Humanoid Alien Hybrids
A Republican congressman recounted an unverified claim that Donald Trump was briefed on alleged alien-human hybrids during his presidency, prompting Trump to joke about political rival Adam Schiff. The anecdote aligns with broader, unproven allegations made by former intelligence officer David Grusch, who claims the US government possesses crashed alien craft and non-human remains but has provided no physical evidence. Officials continue to deny such programs, leaving a gap between sensational testimony and verifiable information. The narrative reflects a mix of classified briefings, political rivalry, and speculative UFO claims circulating in Washington.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
Where Is Mojtaba Khamenei? Three Sons of Iran's Late Ayatollah Appeared at His Funeral, but the Successor Was Missing
Mojtaba Khamenei’s absence from the widely televised funeral of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has intensified speculation about his health following reported injuries sustained in the February US–Israeli strike that killed much of the family. While state media treats Mojtaba as the new supreme leader, authorities have provided no confirmation of his condition, offering only highly choreographed coverage of mourning events designed to project regime continuity. Iran has planned an extensive series of domestic and regional funeral processions amid a fragile ceasefire with the United States, as senior officials and millions of citizens publicly participate in ceremonies that serve both religious and political purposes. Uncertainty over Mojtaba’s visibility raises further questions about Iran’s leadership transition, with no verified information available on his recovery or readiness to assume power.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
Trump Accounts: Free $1,000 Deposits Begin This Month But Not Every Child Qualifies
A new federal program called Trump Accounts will provide a one‑time $1,000 government deposit for children born between 2025 and 2028, but only if parents opted in earlier using an IRS form. The accounts remain locked until age 18, with future growth dependent on private contributions and investment returns. Major corporations including Bank of America and JPMorgan Chase plan to contribute to employees’ qualifying accounts, and Michael and Susan Dell have pledged additional support for children in lower‑income ZIP codes. Critics warn that complex eligibility rules may disadvantage less informed families, and uncertainty remains about long‑term program management and potential future policy changes.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
'A Sign of Dementia': Expert Claims Trump's Viral Ribbon-Cutting 'Kleptomania' Points to Brain Damage
A viral clip showing Donald Trump pocketing ceremonial scissors during a ribbon-cutting ceremony has prompted neurologist Hilary Shae to suggest the behaviour may indicate dementia rather than kleptomania. Shae links the incident to anecdotal reports from the book Regime Change describing similar actions, arguing they resemble patterns seen in frontotemporal dementia or other neurodegenerative conditions. She acknowledges her assessment is based solely on public footage and second-hand accounts, making it speculative and controversial. The Trump campaign has not responded, while the episode fuels broader concerns over the cognitive health of aging political leaders.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
Severe Thunderstorm Watch: 'Destructive' 80 MPH Storms Slam West Michigan, Trapping Woman in Home
A fast‑moving severe thunderstorm swept through west Michigan, prompting destructive thunderstorm warnings for wind gusts up to 80 mph across multiple counties. The National Weather Service issued successive alerts as radar indicated escalating straight-line wind threats, with reports emerging of at least one woman trapped in her home. Warnings expanded from Allegan and Ottawa counties into Kalamazoo and Calhoun, where the destructive designation signaled significant danger. By early evening the main storm system had moved out of the region, though forecasters cautioned that additional storms with heavy rain, lightning and gusty winds remained possible. Local authorities began assessing damage while residents sought updates amid scattered outages and limited early reports.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
Bronny James Retirement Rumours Explained: Why LeBron James' Lakers Departure Has Sparked Questions About Bronny's Future
Bronny James faces intensified scrutiny following LeBron James’ departure from the Los Angeles Lakers, prompting broadcaster Rob Parker to argue that Bronny should retire because his place on the roster was tied to his father. Despite limited on‑court impact and statistics that reflect developmental challenges, there is no indication that retirement is being considered. Bronny’s future with the team is uncertain as the Lakers shift focus post‑LeBron, and options range from continued development to potential trades, with league observers watching how the franchise proceeds.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
Why a Doctor Says Donald Trump's Obese BMI Makes Weight Gain a Bigger Health Concern
A recent medical assessment shows Donald Trump weighing 238 pounds with a BMI of 29.7, placing him just below the obesity threshold and marking a 14‑pound gain over the past year. Physician Stuart Fischer warns that such weight gain at Trump’s age could signal underlying cardiovascular issues, though no medical evidence confirms any diagnosis. While Trump jokes about comparisons to former president William Howard Taft, the article highlights that increased weight elevates health risks for an 80‑year‑old. Trump’s diet and public image around food add to ongoing scrutiny, but experts stress that only fuller medical data can clarify his condition.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
From 'Glad He's Dead' to Self-Brags: Trump Sparks Outrage With Another 'Self-Absorbed' Death Tribute
Donald Trump’s tribute to Village People frontman Victor Willis drew backlash for focusing heavily on himself and portraying the group as enthusiastic supporters of his rallies, despite past objections from the band. The article contrasts Trump’s self-referential message with the more complex history between the musician and the former president, highlighting previous disputes over the use of 'Y.M.C.A.' at political events. It also places the tribute within a broader pattern of Trump issuing provocative or antagonistic responses to public figures’ deaths, noting past examples involving Robert Mueller and Rob Reiner. The piece concludes that Trump’s portrayal of Willis’ support is contradicted by public statements from the band and remains unverified by the family.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
Should Melania Trump Be Jealous? Secret Service Reportedly Flagged 'Aggressive Attention' of Trump's Aide Natalie Harp
Reports from upcoming books allege that Donald Trump’s aide Natalie Harp exhibits unusually intense loyalty that raised private concerns among Secret Service agents, though no claims are confirmed. Harp’s role, centered on constantly delivering positive media to Trump, has fueled speculation and online mockery, drawing Melania Trump into public chatter despite no evidence of her involvement. Authors Maggie Haberman, Jonathan Swan, and Michael Wolff depict a dynamic of dependency around Trump, intensified by comments from Harp’s estranged brother. The story underscores broader worries about loyalty-driven power structures surrounding Trump and the partisan interpretation of such claims.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
Mark Zuckerberg Claims AI Won't Destroy Jobs — Just Weeks After Meta Lays Off 8,000 Employees
Mark Zuckerberg argues that artificial intelligence will create rather than eliminate jobs, despite Meta recently cutting 8,000 positions. He promotes a vision of 'personal super intelligence' designed to augment workers instead of replacing them, contrasting with warnings from leaders at Anthropic and more cautious views from OpenAI. Meta’s AI efforts are described as a reboot involving major investments and new infrastructure, though commentators question whether the company can catch industry leaders. Internal figures show slight workforce growth before the layoffs, highlighting the tension between Meta’s efficiency drive and its claims that AI will ultimately expand employment.
IBTimes UK
Jul 2026
'A Real Warning Sign': Supreme Court Sends Trump a 'Troubling' 5-4 Signal on Birthright Citizenship
A closely divided US Supreme Court ruling rejecting Donald Trump's attempt to limit birthright citizenship revealed unexpectedly strong support among four justices for narrowing Fourteenth Amendment protections. Legal analyst Quinta Jurecic argued the 5–4 split on the constitutional question showed a troubling willingness by nearly half the Court to accommodate Trump's immigration agenda despite clear constitutional text. The alignment of Justices Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh in favor of Trump’s position heightened concerns about the Court’s deference to expansive presidential power. The ruling suggests Trump’s legal theories continue to resonate with several justices, leaving future constitutional clashes potentially hinging on a single vote.
IBTimes UK
Jun 2026
Melania Trump ruthlessly trolled over husband's young companion Natalie Harp after new White House book drops
Melania Trump’s announcement of her foster‑care financial initiative was overshadowed by online mockery tying her husband to former aide Natalie Harp. Social media users circulated images and jokes referencing rumors revived by recent books detailing Harp’s unusually close presence around Donald Trump. Though no verified evidence supports claims of an affair, renewed attention from forthcoming political books has intensified speculation, diverting focus from Melania’s policy effort and highlighting how her public messaging continues to be eclipsed by controversies surrounding Donald Trump’s inner circle.
IBTimes UK
Jun 2026
The Backlash Is What Really Changed the Plan: Palace Insiders Expose Meghan Markle's UK Security Excuse
Meghan Markle is expected to skip Prince Harry’s planned July visit to the UK, with palace insiders claiming backlash over a perceived “royal homecoming” prompted her withdrawal rather than concerns about security. Sources say Harry was already aware of the limits on taxpayer-funded police protection, undermining the narrative that security issues derailed the trip. Reports suggest public criticism and scepticism toward Meghan’s motives, particularly in relation to her lifestyle brand and recent rebranding efforts, played a larger role. Harry still plans to travel alone, highlighting diverging personal and public paths between him and Meghan as tensions with the royal family persist.
IBTimes UK
Jun 2026
Minimum, Four: Taylor Swift's Family Comments Resurface as Psychic Predicts 2027 Baby With Travis Kelce
A celebrity psychic predicts that Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce will shift focus toward family life after their expected 2025 wedding, suggesting a potential baby in 2027. The forecast, unsupported by evidence, has resurfaced Swift’s past comments about wanting a large family and concerns about raising children under intense public scrutiny. The article contrasts the couple’s high‑profile careers with the psychic’s claim that they will seek privacy and domestic stability, while emphasizing that the predictions remain speculative.
IBTimes UK
Jun 2026
Winter Storm Warning: National Weather Service Warns Blizzards to Drop 3 Feet of Snow as July Begins
Meteorologists warn of an unusual late‑June winter storm bringing up to three feet of snow and 60‑mph winds across high elevations in the Sierra Nevada, Cascades, Uinta Mountains and northern Rockies. Agencies highlight travel hazards, potential fire risk in windy low‑elevation areas, and the danger to hikers and outdoor recreation as cold air and heavy snow intersect with early‑summer activity. Officials expect a brief but disruptive burst of winter conditions before temperatures rebound, urging mountain travellers to prepare for winter driving and rapidly changing weather.
IBTimes UK
Jun 2026
Subpoenas, stalking and hotel raids: How Trump’s Homeland Security is targeting citizens who speak out
Federal agents under the Trump administration confronted writer David Streever and later tracked him to a New York hotel after he sent a harsh but non‑threatening email to ICE’s acting director about the fatal shootings of protesters in Minnesota. Another New York resident, Paigelynne Gonyea, reported being approached by agents after online criticism of an ICE officer. These encounters parallel a broader Justice Department effort to subpoena Reddit and X for identities and financial details of anonymous users who criticized Trump’s mass‑deportation plans. With no charges filed and little official explanation, the actions collectively raise concerns over intimidation of dissenters and unclear legal grounding for the government’s responses.