Donald Trump has nominated Tilman Fertitta, Houston Rockets owner and Landry's CEO, as the next U.S. ambassador to Italy. Trump praised Fertitta's business acumen, overseeing a vast empire of restaurants, hospitality, and gaming ventures employing 50,000 Americans. He also highlighted Fertitta's philanthropy and long-time chairmanship of the University of Houston Board of Regents.
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A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas has been announced, ending the 15-month conflict. The deal involves the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, ensuring the return of displaced Gazans and delivery of humanitarian aid. Celebrations erupted as journalists and civilians marked the significant moment.
CNN faced criticism after helping free a Syrian prisoner who was later identified as a torturer for the Assad regime. Elon Musk reacted to the news, highlighting the irony. The prisoner, initially thought to be Adel Ghurbal, was revealed to be Salama Mohammad Salama, a lieutenant in Syrian Air Force Intelligence, accused of war crimes and extortion.
Sudan's military has recaptured the Republican Palace in Khartoum from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), marking a significant gain in the ongoing conflict. However, the RSF still control key territories, and the war is anticipated to continue, worsening the humanitarian crisis.
Rock band artist Brian Molko has been charged for defamation after calling Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni a 'fascist' and 'Nazi' during a concert. The case has sparked debates on free speech, with critics claiming the government is using defamation laws to suppress dissent.
John Ullyot, former Pentagon chief spokesperson, is departing this week, amidst conflicting reports of resignation versus being asked to leave. Ullyot cited disagreement over a 'number two' role after Sean Parnell's appointment and his temporary commitment. His tenure included a controversial directive to remove DEI-promoting images, coinciding with a probe into leaks and the suspension of three senior officials.
A US Marine and three defence contractors were killed in a plane crash during a surveillance mission in the southern Philippines. The Beechcraft Super King Air B300, contracted by the US, went down in Maguindanao del Sur province. The cause of the crash is under investigation.
Pope Francis, known for his humility and advocacy for the poor and environment, passed away at 88. His papacy, marked by compassion and moral clarity, addressed issues like inequality, migration, and church reform. He consistently promoted tolerance, social justice, and urged action on climate change, leaving behind a legacy of impactful quotes and progressive views.
​Prices at $5 million, the Gold Card program would replace the EB-5 immigrant investor visa program. EB-5s were created in 1990 as a method for immigrants to obtain green cards in which a person must invest at least $1 million in a company –or $800k in a low-income area – that employs at least 10 people. In 2024, more than 4,500 EB-5 visas were issued.
Voice of America has filed a lawsuit alleging that the Trump administration unlawfully shut down the news organisation. The lawsuit claims that this action deprived many regions of an important source of objective news, with the closure attributed to political bias allegations.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has advocated for the development of a European army, emphasizing the continent's need for self-reliance amid concerns about U.S. support due to Trump's unpredictable stance. Zelenskyy insists that Ukraine must be involved in any peace talks with Russia and cautions against deals made behind Kyiv's back.