Monday, June 16
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. sparked controversy by posting photos of himself and his grandchildren swimming in Rock Creek, a Washington, D.C. waterway under a federal swimming ban due to high bacterial contamination.
Rasel Vought will replace Elon Musk as head of the Department of Government Efficiency. Vought, previously at the Office of Management and Budget, aims to further cost-cutting measures. He plans to reclassify federal employees and advance deregulation. A controversial figure, Vought authored Project 2025, a plan to overhaul federal agencies.
Hamas has announced the imminent release of Edan Alexander, the last known living American hostage in Gaza, as a goodwill gesture following positive communication with the US. Alexander, a dual citizen captured on October 7, 2023, is expected to be freed soon, with US officials and his parents en route to Israel.
Donald Trump defended accepting a luxury jet from Qatar for Air Force One, calling it a free gift and accusing Democrats of outrage over a cost-saving deal. Critics argue it violates the Emoluments Clause, citing ethical concerns and potential corruption. The White House defends the arrangement, stating the Pentagon would accept the jet, not Trump personally, negating bribery accusations.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to unveil stricter immigration policies following Labour's victory last July. Facing voter frustration over high immigration levels, Starmer aims to end Britain's "failed experiment in open borders." This move comes after Reform UK gained ground in local elections by focusing on immigration concerns.
Laura Loomer, a staunch supporter of Donald Trump, has criticised his potential acceptance of a $400 million Boeing jet from Qatar, citing concerns over Qatari funding of groups hostile to the U.S. The proposed aircraft, intended as a temporary Air Force One replacement, has sparked ethical and legal debates.
A magnitude 5.7 earthquake rattled Tibet early Monday at a shallow depth of 10km, as reported by the National Center for Seismology. This follows a smaller 3.7 magnitude quake just days prior in the same region. Experts highlight the increased potential for destruction from shallow earthquakes due to stronger ground shaking in this seismically active zone.
