A significant shake-up occurred when the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board stepped down. The Trump administration blocked many Fulbright awards for the 2025-2026 academic year. This move raised eyebrows, as the board emphasized the program's merit-based selection process. The government also put 1, 200 other foreign recipients under review, which could lead to their rejection. The board's resignation letter highlighted the program's proud history of integrity and independence from political interference. This move is a clear indication of political interference in educational programs.

        The Middle East is heating up. Israel launched a massive air strike on Iran, targeting its nuclear facilities and key military leaders. This attack involved 200 fighter jets and resulted in significant damage to Iran's primary nuclear enrichment site. The strike also killed several high-ranking military officials, including the commander-in-chief of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. In response, Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, vowed severe punishment. Israeli citizens are bracing for retaliation, with schools closing and medical facilities securing their resources. Iran has already launched over 100 drones toward Israeli territory, marking the start of a larger counter-attack.

        The aviation world is in shock after an Air India jet crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, India. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner was headed to London when it crashed into a hostel for doctors. The tragedy claimed 290 lives, including 241 passengers and crew, as well as people on the ground. Only one passenger survived. The flight recorder has been located, and investigations are underway. This incident is the first major crash involving a 787 Dreamliner since it entered service in 2011. Boeing has faced numerous safety issues in recent years, including fatal crashes and quality problems.

        The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) secured some federal spending cuts. The GOP-led House passed cuts totaling $9. 4 billion for foreign aid and public broadcasting. The vote was close, with two representatives changing their votes at the last minute. If approved by the Senate, the legislation would cut $8. 3 billion for USAID programs and $1. 1 billion for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. This move aims to make the cuts permanent and shield the Trump administration from legal challenges. Critics argue that these cuts will harm humanitarian efforts and public broadcasting.

        A legal battle unfolded over the federalization of California’s National Guard. A district court judge ruled that President Trump unlawfully federalized thousands of troops and ordered their return to state control. The judge found that Trump did not meet the requirements for calling up the National Guard and that the protests did not constitute an insurrection. The 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals temporarily paused the ruling, and a hearing is scheduled for next week. This dispute highlights the ongoing tensions between federal and state authorities.

        Severe weather struck San Antonio, Texas, with torrential rains causing flash floods. The rains were so intense that the San Antonio River rose from 3 feet to over 25 feet in just two hours. Fifteen vehicles were swept away, and at least five people lost their lives. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with authorities searching for two missing individuals.

US GOVERNMENT SPENDING CUTS

Fulbright Uproar, Global Tensions, and Weather Warnings

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