As the conflict in the Middle East continues, Donald Trump has alternated between signalling possible de-escalation and threatening further military action, leaving the situation highly uncertain. Increased military deployments in the Gulf region and continued strikes have heightened concerns about potential ground operations, particularly around strategic areas such as the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts warn that even limited intervention could quickly expand into a prolonged and wider conflict. Both sides are at least discussing possible terms for an end to the conflict, although their positions appear to be oceans apart: there are major differences over nuclear activity, regional influence, and security demands. The ongoing crisis has already disrupted global stability, affecting energy markets and trade routes, with rising fears of long-term instability if a peaceful resolution is not achieved.

Donald Trump has linked a deadly mid-air collision in Washington DC to diversity hiring practices at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under previous administrations. The crash, involving an American Airlines jet and a military helicopter, claimed 67 lives; there were no survivors. Trump criticised Joe Biden and Barack Obama for allegedly prioritising diversity initiatives over aviation safety, and accused the FAA of lowering hiring standards for air traffic controllers. He also claimed that under Biden, the FAA recruited individuals with ‘intellectual disabilities and psychiatric problems’. The crash has sparked debate over aviation hiring policies, with officials emphasising the need for a thorough, fact-based inquiry.