At least eight people dead after hot air balloon crashes in Brazil

A hot air balloon crash in Praia Grande, Brazil, on June 21 left at least 8 people dead and 13 others injured or rescued. The balloon was carrying 21 people when it went down in the state of Santa Catarina. Governor Jorginho Mello confirmed the casualties and said emergency teams are continuing search and rescue efforts, Lad Bible has reported. Shocking videos of the incident … Continue reading At least eight people dead after hot air balloon crashes in Brazil

Iranian TV: Every American citizen or military member is a legitimate target

Following U.S. airstrikes on Iran’s Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear sites, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps declared, “Now the war has begun for us.” While initially denying the strikes, Iranian media later confirmed evacuations and limited damage at Fordow. A government adviser downplayed the impact, stating the site had been evacuated in anticipation. A state TV commentator warned that all U.S. personnel in the region … Continue reading Iranian TV: Every American citizen or military member is a legitimate target

US inserts itself into Israel’s war with Iran, striking 3 Iranian nuclear sites

The U.S. launched airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear sites early Sunday, joining Israel’s war against Iran’s nuclear program in a high-risk move that could escalate into a wider regional conflict. President Trump claimed the sites were “completely obliterated” and warned of further attacks if Iran retaliates. Iran condemned the strikes, vowed to respond, and called for a U.N. Security Council meeting. The attack involved U.S. … Continue reading US inserts itself into Israel’s war with Iran, striking 3 Iranian nuclear sites

Webb telescope ups the odds that ‘city-killer’ asteroid will hit the moon in 2032

NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has completed its latest observations of asteroid 2024 YR4, a building-sized space rock that poses no threat to Earth but may strike the moon. New data from JWST has refined the asteroid’s trajectory, raising the chance of a lunar impact on December 22, 2032, to 4.3%. Originally discovered in December 2024, the asteroid once had a small chance of … Continue reading Webb telescope ups the odds that ‘city-killer’ asteroid will hit the moon in 2032

Chinese spacecraft prepare for orbital refueling test as US surveillance sats lurk nearby

Two Chinese satellites, Shijian-21 and Shijian-25, appear to be maneuvering for a potential rendezvous and docking in geostationary orbit (GEO), possibly for an on-orbit refueling test. Shijian-25, launched in January for servicing missions, is approaching Shijian-21, which has previously towed a defunct satellite to graveyard orbit. Both are now in closely matched orbits, minimizing fuel use for docking. The proximity operations, expected around June 11, … Continue reading Chinese spacecraft prepare for orbital refueling test as US surveillance sats lurk nearby

SpaceX rocket explodes in new setback

A SpaceX Starship prototype, Starship 36, exploded during a routine static fire test at the company’s Starbase facility in Texas late Wednesday. The rocket experienced a “catastrophic failure” while secured to a test stand, though no injuries or hazards to nearby communities were reported. The incident marks the latest setback for Elon Musk’s goal of developing a reusable rocket for Mars colonization. Standing 123 meters … Continue reading SpaceX rocket explodes in new setback

Humanoid robot achieves controlled flight using jet engines and AI-powered systems

The Italian Institute of Technology (IIT) has achieved a breakthrough with iRonCub3, the world’s first jet-powered flying humanoid robot designed for real-world use. After two years of research, including wind tunnel tests and AI-driven aerodynamic modeling, iRonCub3 successfully lifted off about 50 cm while maintaining stability. Equipped with four jet engines and a titanium-reinforced frame, the 70 kg robot can hover and perform controlled flight … Continue reading Humanoid robot achieves controlled flight using jet engines and AI-powered systems

Shares of Coinbase, Circle surge after stablecoin bill passes Senate

Shares of Circle and Coinbase surged after the Senate passed the GENIUS Act, which would create a federal framework for U.S. dollar-pegged stablecoins. Circle’s stock jumped 33%, continuing its strong post-IPO rally, while Coinbase rose over 16%, benefiting from stablecoins as a key revenue source. The GENIUS Act sets strict rules for stablecoin issuance and centralizes oversight under the Treasury, but still needs House approval, … Continue reading Shares of Coinbase, Circle surge after stablecoin bill passes Senate

Trump rips into ‘too late’ Jerome Powell after Fed holds rates steady

President Donald Trump sharply criticized Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell after the Fed kept interest rates steady, calling him “destructive” and blaming him for costing the U.S. “hundreds of billions of dollars” by not cutting rates. Trump claimed rates should be 2.5 points lower to save billions on Biden’s short-term debt and labeled Powell a “real dummy” on social media. Despite Powell’s stance to wait … Continue reading Trump rips into ‘too late’ Jerome Powell after Fed holds rates steady

Switzerland enters era of zero interest rates

The Swiss National Bank cut interest rates by 25 basis points to 0%, fueling concerns about a return to negative rates. The move was expected as inflation pressures ease, with Switzerland currently facing slight deflation. SNB emphasized a focus on medium-term price stability despite short-term negative inflation. The bank lowered its inflation forecast for 2025 and highlighted economic uncertainty, mainly from abroad. Switzerland’s strong franc, … Continue reading Switzerland enters era of zero interest rates

Trump downplays signs of MAGA unrest over possible military strike on Iran

President Trump is downplaying concerns that some of his MAGA supporters are breaking with him over the possibility of a U.S. military strike on Iran, amid ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran. While Trump insists his base remains loyal, divisions have emerged within the MAGA movement, with figures like Tucker Carlson and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene warning that intervention would betray Trump’s “America First” stance. … Continue reading Trump downplays signs of MAGA unrest over possible military strike on Iran

Democratic senators hammer Hegseth as he trades barbs with them during testy hearing

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced intense questioning from Senate Democrats during a congressional hearing over recent Trump administration military actions. Sen. Elissa Slotkin pressed Hegseth on whether the military was authorized to detain protesters or use lethal force—claims he dismissed, insisting no such orders were given. Tensions rose further when Sen. Jacky Rosen challenged him on the firing of top security officials, allegedly influenced by … Continue reading Democratic senators hammer Hegseth as he trades barbs with them during testy hearing

Senate Republicans hold hearing on Biden’s mental fitness as Democrats boycott

Six months after Joe Biden left office, Senate Republicans have launched hearings questioning his mental fitness during his presidency. The first hearing, led by Sen. John Cornyn, featured three witnesses—none from Biden’s administration—and focused on claims of cognitive decline and alleged misuse of an autopen. Democrats boycotted the hearing, calling it political theater and criticizing Republicans for ignoring pressing national issues. In the House, Republicans … Continue reading Senate Republicans hold hearing on Biden’s mental fitness as Democrats boycott

Starmer urges diplomacy as Trump considers Iran attack

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has urged negotiations over military action amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran, as former U.S. President Trump considers joining Israeli strikes. While some UK Conservatives back U.S. intervention, legal concerns have been raised about potential UK involvement. Starmer emphasized de-escalation and diplomacy, especially regarding Iran’s nuclear program, and declined to disclose legal advice. Foreign Secretary David Lammy is … Continue reading Starmer urges diplomacy as Trump considers Iran attack

Putin says Russia could help broker a deal between Iran and Israel

Russian President Vladimir Putin offered to mediate between Israel and Iran, proposing a peaceful resolution that would allow Iran to pursue civilian nuclear energy while addressing Israeli security concerns. He emphasized Russia’s neutral role and shared proposals with all involved parties but stressed that the final decision lies with Israel and Iran. Despite warm ties with both nations, Putin noted Iran has not sought Russian … Continue reading Putin says Russia could help broker a deal between Iran and Israel

Proposed sale of millions of acres of public land under GOP budget bill

A Republican budget bill proposes selling over 2 million acres of public land across 11 states, sparking criticism from conservationists, hunting groups, and some conservatives. Sen. Mike Lee of Utah included the measure to boost energy production, revenue, and housing, excluding national parks and monuments. Despite his defense, the plan faces opposition within his party, with Rep. Ryan Zinke successfully removing similar provisions from the … Continue reading Proposed sale of millions of acres of public land under GOP budget bill

Flooding and rock slides close heavily damaged I-40 section in Smoky Mountains

A section of Interstate 40 through the Great Smoky Mountains has been closed again due to heavy rain, flooding, and a rockslide near mile marker 450 in Tennessee. Engineers found extensive damage to the highway and ramps, with compromised slopes still underwater. Repairs are expected to take at least two weeks, with a long-term fix projected to take years. The closure affects a stretch already … Continue reading Flooding and rock slides close heavily damaged I-40 section in Smoky Mountains

Trump’s border czar: Immigration raids at farms, hotels to continue

After briefly pausing immigration raids over economic concerns, the Trump administration has reversed course. Border czar Tom Homan confirmed that ICE will resume worksite enforcement in the agriculture and hospitality sectors, including farms, restaurants, and hotels. While the focus will be on individuals with criminal records, all unauthorized workers are subject to enforcement. Homan emphasized legal hiring practices and blamed Congress for inaction on immigration reform, Axios has … Continue reading Trump’s border czar: Immigration raids at farms, hotels to continue

Karen Read found not guilty of murder in retrial on police officer boyfriend’s death

Karen Read was found not guilty of murdering her Boston police officer boyfriend, John O’Keefe, in 2022, following a retrial after a previous mistrial. The Massachusetts jury acquitted her of second-degree murder, manslaughter, and leaving the scene of an accident. She was found guilty only of driving under the influence, receiving one year of probation. Prosecutors alleged she hit O’Keefe with her car and left him to die … Continue reading Karen Read found not guilty of murder in retrial on police officer boyfriend’s death

Break-in reported at home of slain Minnesota state Rep. Melissa Hortman

Police are investigating a break-in at the boarded-up home of Minnesota State Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, who were fatally shot in a politically motivated attack over the weekend. The rear window had been pried open, but nothing appears to be missing. The home had been processed as a crime scene and boarded up with surveillance in place. The suspect, Vance Boelter, was arrested … Continue reading Break-in reported at home of slain Minnesota state Rep. Melissa Hortman

Rwanda and DR Congo agree draft peace deal to end conflict

Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo have reached a draft peace agreement, mediated by the US and Qatar, aimed at ending decades of conflict in eastern DR Congo. The deal includes the disengagement, disarmament, and possible integration of armed groups, a joint security mechanism, and respect for sovereignty. While Rwanda denies backing the M23 rebels, who control parts of the region, the agreement could … Continue reading Rwanda and DR Congo agree draft peace deal to end conflict

Israel strikes unfinished Arak heavy water reactor in Iran

On the seventh day of escalating conflict, Israeli jets bombed Iran’s Arak nuclear reactor, claiming it was part of a covert nuclear weapons program. The reactor, under reconstruction per the 2015 nuclear deal, was reportedly hit at its core seal. The IAEA confirmed the strike but said no nuclear material was present. Israel also targeted Iran’s Natanz and Isfahan nuclear sites, damaging key uranium enrichment … Continue reading Israel strikes unfinished Arak heavy water reactor in Iran

Major Hurricane Makes Mexico Landfall

Hurricane Erick rapidly intensified off Mexico’s southern Pacific coast, doubling in strength in less than a day and gaining 50 mph in 18 hours. Scientists say such rapid intensification is becoming more common due to climate change. Erick is expected to become the strongest early-season storm to hit that region, with ideal conditions fueling its growth. While comparisons are being made to 2023’s deadly Hurricane … Continue reading Major Hurricane Makes Mexico Landfall

Knifeman storms Andrew Tate’s compound, stabbing worker

A knife-wielding attacker broke into Andrew Tate’s compound in Romania, stabbing a 53-year-old construction worker in the arm. The suspect, a Ukrainian national, was initially released after offering a vague explanation but returned later and was arrested. Tate claimed the man had been lurking near his home and criticized police for delayed action. Authorities are investigating the motive, the U.S. Sun has reported. The incident … Continue reading Knifeman storms Andrew Tate’s compound, stabbing worker

Heavy damage, injuries as Iranian missile hits Beersheba hospital

Early Thursday, Iran launched around 30 ballistic missiles at Israel, hitting Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba and causing damage and injuries in Holon and Ramat Gan. The strike injured over 60 people, including six seriously. Soroka’s old surgical ward, recently evacuated, was struck, but most injuries were minor due to prior precautions. Iran claimed the hospital was near a military target, but Israeli officials denied … Continue reading Heavy damage, injuries as Iranian missile hits Beersheba hospital