Donald Trump defended himself against criticism from fellow Republicans on Sunday as he appeared on the verge of agreeing a deal with Iran to end the war. Hawks in his party called the proposed agreement a disaster and questioned why the US president had launched the conflict in the first place. Trump claimed on social media that his deal would be “THE EXACT OPPOSITE” of the one agreed by Barack Obama, which Trump pulled out of in 2018. He added that he was not rushing into a deal, saying “both sides must take their time to get it right … There can be no mistakes!”
Iran’s Response
Foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei spoke at a news briefing about the contours of a potential deal: “It is correct to say that we have reached a conclusion on a large portion of the issues under discussion. But to say that this means the signing of an agreement is imminent – no one can make such a claim.”
Trump ‘Alienated’ Voters, Warns Ousted Republican
Thomas Massie, a Republican from Kentucky ousted by a Trump-backed challenger, warned that Trump had “disenfranchised” many voters. He pointed to constituencies like “Make America healthy again” campaigners, fiscal hawks, and anti-war voters, saying he worried this would cost the party in November.
Chemical Tank Risk in California
Officials in Orange County warned that an overheated chemical tank at an aerospace facility in Garden Grove, five miles from Disneyland, “will fail” and could cause an explosion. EPA administrator Lee Zeldin said the most catastrophic scenario would be an explosion triggering other tanks. About 50,000 people have been evacuated.
Other News
- France child abuse scandal: Over 100 allegations of violence, sexual assault, and rape by school monitors in state nursery and primary schools are under investigation.
- Politicians accountable for lies: Former federal prosecutor Andrew Weissmann says politicians must be held accountable if their lies damage democracy.
- Sweden’s IVF pledge: Prime minister promises to put IVF at the heart of his re-election campaign amid record low birthrate.
- Stat of the day: Films are four times more likely to star a talking animal than a woman over 60, according to Age Without Limits.
Climate Activist Takes on Trump
Eva Lighthiser, a 20-year-old activist, is among 23 plaintiffs suing the US government over executive orders that worsen the climate crisis, accusing the administration of boosting fossil fuels.
Democrats’ Autopsy ‘Fails to Confront Truth’
The Democratic National Committee’s autopsy of the 2024 election defeat has been overshadowed by its chaotic release. DNC chair Ken Martin distanced himself from the report, which omits Biden’s late withdrawal and the impact of the Gaza genocide, writes Norman Solomon.
Mood in Russia Turns Against Putin
Interviews with people in Putin’s orbit and western intelligence officials paint a picture of an isolated leader surrounded by a disillusioned elite, due to the faltering war in Ukraine and economic downturn. Putin is entering the most challenging period of his rule.
Nature’s Solution to Climate Crisis
Technological interventions face challenges, but restoring natural habitats like forests offers a no-trade-off solution to the climate crisis.
South Korea’s Robot Theme Park
Galaxy Robot Park in Seoul features child-sized humanoid robots performing K-pop dances. Despite a malfunction, the park aims to attract tourists with concerts and fashion shows, though questions remain about replicating human connection.
