Washington Examiner
07:56 PM
Vice President JD Vance raised concerns about potential recordings of discussions in the Situation Room regarding the Epstein case, following a New York Times report. He emphasized that unauthorized recordings would be illegal and described the report as peculiar, while also advocating for transparency in handling the Epstein matter.
BBC — World
07:54 PM
The United States has ended its naval blockade, while Iran's Supreme Leader criticized the deal made by former President Trump, suggesting it was a result of desperation. Khamenei's comments reflect ongoing tensions between the two nations.
New York Times — Business
07:53 PM
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is proposing measures to address conflicts associated with data centers, which are known for their high energy consumption. This initiative comes as technology companies continue to expand their data center operations to support artificial intelligence development.
Ars Technica
07:53 PM
Google will implement a developer verification system for Android starting September 30, 2026, aimed at improving software distribution security. The initial rollout will occur in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, where app scams are prevalent.
Washington Examiner
07:53 PM
Maria Bartiromo and Rep. Ro Khanna debated the SAVE America Act, which would mandate proof of citizenship for voter registration. Bartiromo supported the act as a measure for election integrity, while Khanna argued against the additional documentation requirements, advocating for the enforcement of existing laws instead.
Al Jazeera English
07:52 PM
The United Nations and various countries have raised alarms about significant human rights violations in el-Obeid, North Kordofan. They are urging the international community to apply maximum pressure on the RSF and SAF to mitigate these issues.
The Hill
07:52 PM
Apple CEO Tim Cook announced that the company will be increasing product prices due to higher costs associated with memory and storage chips. This information was shared in an interview with The Wall Street Journal on June 18, 2026.
Guardian — US
07:51 PM
On June 18, 2026, the average price of gasoline in the US dropped below $4 per gallon, marking the first such decline since March. This change follows a preliminary agreement between the US and Iran to end hostilities, although prices are still significantly higher than before the conflict began.
New York Post
07:49 PM
Oil prices have dropped about 10% this week, marking the lowest levels since the beginning of the Iran war. The decrease is attributed to President Trump's recent agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
The Hill
07:49 PM
A rare pathogen that causes Lyme disease has been found in a new state, indicating a shift in its geographical distribution. Further details about the state and potential impacts are not provided.
The Daily Beast
07:47 PM
Dr. Sean Barbabella, Donald Trump's physician, is under scrutiny after the president's recent physical exam involved 22 specialists. Concerns have been raised regarding Trump's health, including visible symptoms and frequent hospital visits. Democratic Representative Jamie Raskin has called for more transparency from the White House regarding the president's medical evaluations.
The Hill
07:44 PM
The federal contract for the Lincoln Memorial's Reflecting Pool has risen to $14.7 million, reflecting an increase of over $1.5 million from the previous month's cost of $13.1 million. The contract is managed by Atlantic Industrial Coatings.
The Daily Beast
07:44 PM
A petition to rename the street outside Trump Tower in Chicago to Barack Hussein Obama Ave has gained over 25,000 signatures. City Alderman Brendan Reilly has proposed an ordinance for this change, which Mayor Brandon Johnson supports. This initiative coincides with the opening of Obama's presidential center in the city.
Al Jazeera English
07:43 PM
The US Central Command has announced the end of its naval blockade of Iranian ports, indicating that enforcement efforts have ceased. Despite this, US military forces will remain in the region.
New York Times — Politics
07:43 PM
The Colorado Governor has granted clemency to Tina Peters, overriding the recommendations of the state's clemency advisory board, which had twice rejected her release. Board members Hannah Proff and Azra Taslimi confirmed the board's decisions.
New York Times — US
07:43 PM
Colorado Governor has decided to release Tina Peters despite the clemency advisory board's two rejections of her release requests. The board consists of 11 members, including Denver lawyers Hannah Proff and Azra Taslimi.
Ars Technica
07:41 PM
Apple has updated its Beats Studio Buds to fix a high-severity vulnerability that could allow nearby hackers to eavesdrop on users. The update, which is delivered automatically, addresses improper authentication in the earbuds' firmware.
PBS NewsHour
07:38 PM
Arizona prosecutors have dismissed a case related to fake electors, the third such dismissal by states. The Democratic Attorney General plans to seek a new indictment by bringing the case back to a grand jury.
The Hill
07:32 PM
On June 18, 2026, Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei expressed reservations about a memorandum of understanding with the United States but agreed to proceed with it. The decision was supported by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and the head of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr.
TechCrunch
07:31 PM
A class action lawsuit has been filed against Rivian by owners of its first-generation R1 vehicles. The plaintiffs allege that Rivian made false promises regarding the availability of hands-free driving features.
Guardian — US
07:31 PM
The Trump administration has decided not to dismantle the $368 million Ocean Observatories Initiative after receiving pushback from lawmakers and experts. The National Science Foundation confirmed that operations and maintenance will continue as planned.
New York Times — US
07:31 PM
A Cal Fire helicopter conducted an ocean rescue at Panther Beach and Yellow Bank Beach in Santa Cruz, California, where beachgoers were swept into the sea by large waves. The rescue operation was initiated in response to the situation.
PBS NewsHour
07:20 PM
The United States has lifted its blockade of Iran, enabling oil tankers to move freely through the Strait of Hormuz. This change comes as part of a tentative agreement to conclude the ongoing war.
Washington Examiner
07:18 PM
Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has increased to over 12.5 million barrels, the highest since the conflict began, as the U.S. lifts its naval blockade. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has issued new directives for connecting data centers to the grid, while the National Science Foundation has reversed plans to dismantle ocean monitoring systems. Additionally, the UN is seeking funds to assist those affected by El Niño weather patterns.
The Hill
07:17 PM
Vice President Vance defended the Trump administration's Iran deal during a press briefing on June 18, 2026. He described the criticism of the agreement from both political parties as inaccurate.
Axios
07:17 PM
Rep. Tom Kean Jr. plans to return to Capitol Hill on June 30 after a prolonged absence due to a personal medical issue. His spokesperson confirmed that Kean is eager to resume work and will address his health situation publicly upon his return. The timing of his return may be short-lived, as Congress is set to enter a recess shortly thereafter.
The Hill
07:10 PM
Rep. Jamie Raskin has reiterated his investigation into President Trump's health records, questioning the involvement of 22 specialists in declaring Trump's health status. This inquiry comes shortly after Trump's 80th birthday.
New York Times — US
07:08 PM
A man has been charged with a hate crime in connection with a burning cross found in Grant Park, Chicago, on June 9. The specific details of the charges and the individual's identity remain undisclosed.
Guardian — US
07:07 PM
Janeese Lewis George will be the next mayor of Washington DC after her opponent conceded on June 18, 2026. Her campaign emphasized childcare, education, housing, and changes to immigration enforcement policies.
The Hill
07:02 PM
On June 18, 2026, Representative Nancy Pelosi criticized President Trump's military actions against Iran, claiming that Americans have 'paid the price.' She described the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding as a significant benefit to Iran and condemned the withdrawal from the agreement.
Scientific American
07:00 PM
Recent analysis suggests that ruins near Stonehenge were likely used by ancient worshipers for religious ceremonies celebrating the solstices. The site, located five kilometers away, may have influenced the rituals performed at Stonehenge.
Fox News — Latest
06:59 PM
The Senate Commerce Committee has approved the Protect College Sports Act, moving it to a full Senate vote despite opposition from the SEC and Big Ten. The bill aims to stabilize college athletics and includes provisions on media rights and player compensation, but faces potential legal challenges from critics.
Guardian — US
06:55 PM
The CDC has announced the allocation of $107 million in emergency funding to combat the Ebola outbreak in the DRC and Uganda. The outbreak has exceeded 1,000 infections, but health officials maintain that the global risk is low.
The Daily Beast
06:54 PM
Vice President JD Vance defended his negotiation skills in light of criticism regarding the U.S.-Iran deal during a press briefing on June 18, 2026. He humorously compared negotiating with co-host Joy Behar on "The View" to dealing with Iran. The upcoming deal, which has drawn criticism for potentially granting Iran significant concessions, is set to be signed on June 19, 2026.
TechCrunch
06:51 PM
A recent survey by Match indicates that about 47% of U.S. singles view the use of AI in dating negatively. Despite this, many dating app users are open to AI's role in improving profiles and facilitating conversations.
TechCrunch
06:51 PM
A survey by Match shows that 47% of singles in the US have negative perceptions of AI in dating. Despite this, many dating app users are open to using AI for profile improvements and conversation starters.
Al Jazeera English
06:51 PM
China has emphasized the need for stronger representation of emerging economies in global affairs. This call comes amid discussions regarding the involvement of the Global South in international decision-making.
ms.now
06:40 PM
The Onion plans to launch a new version of Infowars on July 2 to support the families of Sandy Hook shooting victims, despite ongoing legal disputes with Alex Jones. The initiative aims to raise funds through merchandise sales and original programming, directing over $100,000 to the families. Legal challenges regarding the Infowars brand and assets continue as The Onion seeks to finalize its takeover.
mediaite.com
06:40 PM
Senator Roger Wicker criticized the memorandum of understanding between President Trump and Iran, expressing concerns that it undermines U.S. efforts against Iran. He highlighted a $300 billion fund for Iran's reconstruction as excessive compared to the previous deal under Obama and opposed any lifting of sanctions. Other Republicans, including Mark Levin, have also voiced their disapproval of the agreement.
New York Times — Business
06:38 PM
Penske Media has acquired the remaining assets of Vox Media, with Jay Penske spearheading the transaction. This acquisition is part of Penske Media's broader strategy to expand its presence in the media industry.
Washington Post — World
06:38 PM
A recent memorandum of understanding highlights the differing commitments required from the U.S. and Iran in a potential peace deal. The U.S. must lift sanctions and release frozen assets, while Iran is only required to open the Strait of Hormuz.
Deutsche Welle
06:37 PM
The UAE has announced a new regulation that prohibits social media access for children under 15 years old. Platforms have one year to comply by removing underage accounts or risk facing penalties.
BBC — World
06:36 PM
The parents of a teenage shooter in Serbia have received jail sentences following a retrial. The incident occurred in 2023 when the shooter, then 13, killed multiple students and a school guard at a Belgrade school.
New York Times — World
06:36 PM
A 19-year-old man was apprehended at Toronto Pearson Airport on June 18, 2026, after being sought for shooting at the U.S. Consulate in Toronto. The incident occurred last year.
Axios
06:30 PM
Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has authorized direct negotiations with the U.S., stating this does not mean acceptance of U.S. views. His comments follow the signing of a memorandum of understanding, and Iranian negotiators are set to begin talks in Switzerland. Khamenei expressed opposition to the MOU but authorized it based on recommendations from President Pezeshkian.
Al Jazeera English
06:26 PM
During the World Cup 2026, South Africa secured a 1-1 draw against Czechia after Teboho Mokoena scored a late penalty. The match took place in the Group A stage.
Guardian — US
06:23 PM
During a meeting with NATO defense ministers in Brussels, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called for increased military spending among European allies. He announced a review of the US military presence in Europe and suggested potential reductions in force numbers for countries that do not meet defense spending expectations.
Axios
06:23 PM
Vice President Vance warned the Israeli government against criticizing President Trump over the Iran deal, stating that Trump is Israel's only significant ally. He indicated that undermining the deal could jeopardize U.S. military support. Netanyahu has privately expressed frustration with the deal, emphasizing the need to maintain strong U.S.-Israel relations.
TechCrunch
06:22 PM
Amazon Web Services is negotiating to sell its AI chips to other data centers, a move that CEO Andy Jassy claims could lead to a $50 billion opportunity for the company. This strategy aims to enhance competition with Nvidia in the AI chip market.
Ars Technica
06:19 PM
The federal government plans to reverse its earlier decision to dismantle the Ocean Observatories Initiative, a network crucial for climate tracking, weather forecasting, and fisheries management. The announcement follows significant public opposition and is expected to be formally confirmed soon.