Stories from Washington · United States

US President Donald Trump attended a traditional dinner with Melania Trump, cabinet members, and Washington correspondents. German newspapers, including Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung and Frankfurter Rundschau, noted his uncharacteristically peaceful reaction. This follows a previous assassination attempt on right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk. The President has refrained from his typical speculation or attacks on political opponents during this period. Donald Trump held a press conference on Saturday evening attended by US capital correspondents. Correspondents from major newspapers attended the event. Observers noted a departure from his typical rhetoric, as he refrained from attacking political opponents or speculating on issues. This behavior contrasts with his response following the September 2025 assassination attempt on Charlie Kirk.

US official Mark Rubio is intentionally avoiding the negotiation process with Iran to avoid being blamed for potential failure. This behavior contrasts with JD Vance, who is described as more vulnerable in this context. US President Donald Trump stated that Iran should proactively contact the United States if it wishes to end hostilities through negotiations. Donald Trump stated that Iranian officials can contact the United States via telephone to conduct negotiations. He decided against dispatching peace envoys, noting that talks could occur remotely rather than via a 17-hour flight. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Haradji returned to Islamabad following a visit to Oman. Trump has specifically highlighted the need for urgent phone negotiations concerning transit rights in the Strait of Hormuz to mitigate global economic and living cost impacts.

A 31-year-old teacher from Los Angeles, California, was involved in an attack in Washington. The U.S. Department of Justice reports the individual is not currently cooperating actively. The suspect appeared to be targeting high-ranking officials within the Trump administration.

Former FBI Specialist Agent Scott Curtis stated the Secret Service requires a full review following a third attempt on President Trump's life within two years.

Senator Tom Tellis announced his intention to vote for President Trump's nominee for the next Federal Reserve Chair. Analysts suggest potential criminal referrals to the Justice Department could arise from ongoing investigations.

Security protocols for high-ranking US officials were described as inadequate during a recent event. Attendees at a recent event in Washington reported security lapses during entry. One guest noted that entry required only a physical invitation without QR code verification.

A third attempt to end the life of Donald Trump has occurred within a two-year period. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed dismay over the incident. Reza Palabi, the exiled Iranian Crown Prince, described the attack as an strike against the United States president and American democracy. The event follows previous assassination attempts targeting the former president. US Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that the suspect likely traveled by train from Los Angeles through Chicago to Washington. The suspect checked into the event hotel the day before the dinner. Investigators are now questioning if security measures at the venue were sufficient.

The United States has recorded 120 mass shootings so far in 2026. These incidents have resulted in 125 deaths and 450 injuries. Analysts are examining the background and drivers of this increase in violence. The data reflects a impact on national security and public safety.

Investigators have discovered numerous anti-Trump messages posted by the shooter on social media. Blanche described the security response as a major success given the circumstances. The investigation follows an incident where the suspect appeared to be seeking to cause mayhem. This event follows a historical precedent of an assassination attempt on President Reagan at the same hotel in 1981. Authorities are currently examining the suspect's motives and potential targets. Authorities are examining numerous anti-Trump posts on social media belonging to 31-year-old suspect Cody Allen. Allen, a resident of California, reportedly sent messages to family members prior to the gala dinner criticizing Trump administration policies. The suspect's brother alerted police following these communications. Investigators found anti-Trump social media posts and an anti-Christian manifesto.

A White House official informed NPR that the brother of the shooter, Allen, notified law enforcement about a piece of writing Allen had composed and sent to family members shortly before the shooting.