Stories from Washington · United States

The average interest rate for US Treasury Bonds stood at 3.392% on March 31, 2026.

The US has successfully rebid a broadband expansion project, executing the plan for $21 billion, which is half the original $42 billion allocation. This leaves $21 billion remaining for further deployment, allowing for flexibility in technology choices like satellite, fixed wireless, or fiber.

Reports indicate that the US President has made claims regarding recent diplomatic communications with Iran. Trump criticized Democratic positions regarding the necessity of military processes. Iranian President Pezeshkian warned that such an action would contradict international law. The blockade would target the Strait of Hormuz to influence Iranian policy. He spoke to journalists during an event related to the signing of an executive order concerning pension adjustments. He expressed a desire to achieve an even larger margin of victory. The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued statements contradicting these claims, asserting that Tehran considers itself the winner. This level is described as being within globally accepted parameters for operation. This move would represent a concession from the maximum position typically held at the start of negotiations.

The slogan 'Make America Great Again' used by Donald Trump is noted as a typical political tactic to encourage voter support by promising improvements. This strategy is common among American politicians aiming to offer a vision of the American dream.

Subcommittee Chair Harold Rogers is requesting a nearly twofold increase in the annual appropriation for the Bureau of Industry and Security. This funding is intended to strengthen the nation's export control system. The investment aims to bolster national security through enhanced regulatory oversight.

New research indicates that the brain processes 'near-misses' on slot machines differently depending on gambling pathology. While both addicted and non-addicted gamblers perceive near-misses as wins, neurological data shows that non-pathological gamblers activate the same brain regions for losses as they do for near-misses. This finding provides insight into the neurological mechanics of gambling addiction.

Political analysts are questioning Donald Trump's persistent desire for positive business relations with Russia and Vladimir Putin, despite ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. This stance is viewed critically, especially as Russia collaborates with China and supports Iran. There is discussion about whether this influences potential invitations for Putin to international summits. Investigators are looking into possible connections between the Russian government or Russian figures and the Trump campaign.

The United States federal budget includes a $215 million increase for the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS). This amount represents a increase compared to the previous year's budget. A two-step application process is currently underway, consisting of a pre-application phase followed by a full proposal and scientific review. The funding aims to support meritorious research proposals and various education initiatives.

A car rally is scheduled to travel from Vienna, Virginia, to Washington D.C. to draw attention to Iranian political prisoners and human rights issues. The event aims to highlight the situation of detainees in Iran and protest against the current regime. Participants will focus on the northern regions of Virginia and the U.S. capital.

The Pentagon reports that restoring damaged military bases will require billions of dollars in funding. US military bases in the Persian Gulf region have sustained escalating damage following Iran's attacks. The cost to repair these bases is projected to reach up to $5 billion USD, equivalent to approximately 7.4 trillion South Korean Won. This situation is part of a prolonged, low-intensity conflict in Asia. US military operations against Iran are costing approximately $1 billion per day, according to data from the Iran Cost-Tracker portal. A Pentagon report to Congress indicated that the first six days of operations exceeded $11 billion. These costs cover personnel, ships deployed to the region, and other associated expenses. The data is updated in real-time by the portal.