Stories from Washington · United States

The cost of the United States military operation against Iran has exceeded $65 billion. The situation in Washington remains focused on the outcome of this pressure. A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging former FBI head James Comey with making threats to harm Donald Trump. Analysts suggest the rhetoric is part of a negotiating strategy regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude oil prices have risen to over 111 dollars per barrel following the statement. Trump is reportedly unwilling to agree to a deal where Iran suspends uranium enrichment for 20 years. Iran has informed mediators that it requires several days to consult with the Supreme Leader before submitting a modified proposal. The US embargo continues to impact the Iranian economy, specifically regarding the storage of unsold oil.

Senator Richard Blumenthal reported that the US President may face restrictions on military operations if legislative authorization is not obtained after May 1. Current political division and Republican control of both chambers may complicate legislative responses. The declaration of an end to hostilities carries legal weight, despite ongoing uncertainties. The current political division makes changes unlikely without a major event. With Republicans controlling both the House and Senate in a polarized political environment, legislative challenges to executive military action remain difficult. The current conflict began on February 28th. The president stated he did not expect the situation to be satisfactory. US President Donald Trump does not require congressional approval to continue military operations.

The Environmental Protection Agency is adding microplastics and pharmaceuticals to its Contaminant Candidate List for the first time. The announcement was made alongside HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. The move is part of the President's fiscal year 2027 budget proposal.

Britain's ambassador to Washington has sparked controversy after claiming the United Kingdom is no longer the closest ally of the United States. The comments have been described as a bombshell that risks souring the upcoming state visit by King Charles.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune stated that the Section 702 surveillance tool will go dark at midnight on Thursday without an extension. Oregon Democratic Senator Ron Wyden warned on the Senate floor that attempts to pass the bill without reforms will fail.

The US Army plans to purchase more than 800 interceptors in the next fiscal year. This move follows the depletion of existing stockpiles during the conflict with Iran. Pentagon budget documents reviewed by RIA Novosti indicate the procurement is intended to prevent critical shortages of high-precision missiles in future large-scale confrontations. A Center for Strategic and International Studies report published Tuesday warned of potential high-precision missile shortages in future large-scale conflicts.

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.