Iran's foreign minister said there is no military solution to the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz and warned against further escalation. His remarks followed Iranian missile and drone strikes and strong warnings from President Donald Trump.

Organizers say about 200 বিদেশ pilgrims attended this year's Lag B'Omer pilgrimage in Djerba, marking a rebound after a deadly 2023 attack. The event signals renewed confidence following two years of sharply reduced turnout.

Seven hantavirus cases, including three deaths, have been reported on a luxury cruise ship stranded off Cape Verde. Health officials say there is no immediate risk to people onshore as authorities consider evacuation options.

Barack Obama said Benjamin Netanyahu used the same arguments on Donald Trump to justify striking Iran as he once used on him. Obama questioned whether the military action serves the long-term interests of Israel or the United States.

Fresh attacks in the Persian Gulf have raised fears that the fragile cease-fire between Iran and the United States could collapse. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court restored access to an abortion pill by mail and the Trump administration is considering new oversight of artificial intelligence models.

Helmy Kluger struggles with trauma after his sister Lexa’s death in 1933 Germany, leading to a dangerous confrontation with a fellow party member. Sally Carson’s rediscovered novel portrays a family caught in the tightening grip of fascism.

Maher Bitar, a former Biden administration official and longtime critic of Israel, will lead a key Democratic foreign policy group preparing for the 2028 election. His appointment reflects a growing shift within the party toward more confrontational policies regarding Israel.

Religious tourism in Najaf and Karbala has nearly collapsed after regional conflict halted the flow of foreign pilgrims. Hotel closures and mass layoffs threaten a key source of Iraq's non oil revenue.

As the 2026 World Cup approaches, geopolitical tensions and domestic unrest are overshadowing the tournament. Players, experts and advocates weigh in on the conflict and political challenges surrounding the event.

The New York Times won three Pulitzer Prizes, while The Washington Post took the public service award for coverage of federal agency overhauls. Reuters and other outlets were also honored for reporting on politics, technology, and international issues.

The Pulitzer Prizes honored leading journalists, authors and artists for work examining government power, corporate practices and global conflict. Major awards went to The Washington Post, The New York Times, Reuters and The Associated Press, alongside winners in literature, drama and music.

Two Gaza-bound flotilla activists detained in Israel allege psychological abuse, threats and harsh prison conditions. Israeli authorities deny torture claims and accuse them of serious security offenses.