Stories from Washington · United States

US military deployment and concentration in the Middle East has reached its highest level since the Iraq War, according to a report from Beijing. The price of whiting hake has increased by 60% in one year, rising from 5 euros per kilo to 15 euros per kilo. The price surge is attributed to rising fuel costs and product scarcity. This trend is impacting fish displays in France. The price increase is impacting the ability of citizens to purchase essential agricultural supplies. Fertilizer prices in India have increased by more than 60 percent compared to pre-war levels. Vijay Krishna, Secretary General of the All Indian Farmers Union, stated that a fertilizer shortage is expected to cause a fall in production following the June sowing season for rice, cotton, and soybean.

The British ambassador to Washington made leaked remarks suggesting the US-Israel special relationship is under pressure. The ambassador noted that the relationship between the US and Israel is likely being questioned.

The Department of Justice accused top U.S. infectious disease expert Dr. David Morins of using private email to conceal communications from the public. Morins allegedly conspired to hide information related to a COVID-19 research grant. The grant involved collaboration with the Wuhan Institute of Virology in China. The investigation focuses on the concealment of communications regarding the research. Prosecutors allege 78-year-old former advisor Morins used a private email account to evade federal transparency laws. Morins served as a top advisor at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and was a longtime senior advisor to Dr. Anthony Fauci. Fauci from 2006 to 2022. The criminal case has been moved to a federal court.

Two men sustained non-life-threatening gunshot wounds in an apartment building courtyard on N Street in southwest Washington, D.C. Police are asking the public for images or information regarding the gunfire, which occurred without an apparent motive. The child is expected to be okay, according to the report. The National Police Department has provided a tip line for witnesses to contact. Montgomery County counsel has unanimously passed information regarding the shooting. Two adult males suffering from non-life-threatening gunshot wounds were located by officers in a courtyard along End Street in the Tuckston Circle area of Washington DC. A five-year-old child was also shot and was transported from the scene by a parent. Officers later located the child at a local hospital.

WTOP is set to fire John Wardock following comments made on his late-night show last week regarding Melania Trump. The station is reportedly reviewing its licenses in relation to the incident.

The Hill reports a consensus has formed among hardline conservatives regarding legislation to reauthorize foreign spy powers under FISA Section 702. A long-term solution of three or more years remains difficult due to the inability to assemble a coalition. The provision within the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act allows agencies to collect communications. Lawmakers are continuing to work toward a long-term deal regarding the program. This extension comes ahead of the program's expiration tonight. The current extension was a temporary 10-day measure while a long-term agreement is being negotiated in both chambers. US Congress implemented a last-minute political maneuver to extend Section 702 surveillance authority for 45 days. The move comes amid political backlash regarding privacy concerns.

The United States reported a GDP growth rate of only 1.4 percent for the fourth quarter.

Meiad Maleki, former head of the sanctions office at the US Treasury Department, discussed how banking networks use Syrian and shell companies to bypass US sanctions. The discussion addressed the impact of these financial maneuvers on international trade.

Two adult males suffering from gunshot wounds were located in a courtyard area and transported to a local hospital for treatment. The wounds appear to be non-life-threatening. Officers were initially advised that a child had also been shot and transported from the local hospital. The incident occurred in a walkway and courtyard area in Washington D.C. MPD Chief Jeff Carroll stated that officers are searching for two individuals wearing dark clothing who opened fire and fled the scene. Other individuals were also shot and transported from a local hospital. The investigation is ongoing, according to the source. All victims were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Police are asking anyone with information to contact authorities. Another boy playing in the courtyard was also shot during the incident.

Police reported that children were hospitalized following a shooting in the Northwood area of Northwest Washington, D.C. on Inn Street in the Truxton Circle area. Police reported finding the two men with gunshot wounds in an apartment building's courtyard. All three victims were taken to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. No information regarding the suspects or motives was provided. Interim DC Police Chief Jeff Kerr provided details on the incident. Police reported that shots were fired just after 7 p.m. along N Street near New York Avenue. No suspects have been identified in the immediate report. Two adult males were located at the scene suffering from gunshot wounds. Both men were transported to a local hospital for treatment and their injuries are reported to be non-life threatening. Prince William County Fire and Rescue responded to the incident.