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  • US commerce secretary to testify before Congress about Epstein ties

    US commerce secretary to testify before Congress about Epstein ties

    U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick will provide voluntary testimony before the House Oversight Committee as part of its ongoing investigation into connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Committee Chairman James Comer (R-KY) announced on Tuesday that Lutnick had “proactively agreed to appear voluntarily” for a transcribed interview.

    The development follows recent depositions from former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who both testified about their associations with Epstein. While Lutnick has acknowledged visiting Epstein’s private Caribbean island in 2012—years after Epstein’s conviction for sex crimes—the commerce secretary has not been accused of any wrongdoing by Epstein’s victims.

    Justice Department documents released earlier this month confirm Lutnick’s December 23, 2012 visit to Little St. James Island. Correspondence shows Lutnick’s wife, Allison, emailed Epstein’s assistant on the eve of their visit: “We are looking forward to visiting you” and “We would love to join you for lunch.”

    Lutnick previously testified to Congress that he severed ties with Epstein in 2005 after the financier—then his New York neighbor—used sexual innuendo to explain why he kept a massage table in a room of his home. The commerce secretary, recognized as the architect of Trump’s global tariffs policy, maintains this position despite the documented 2012 visit.

    No specific date has been announced for Lutnick’s testimony. Chairman Comer commended Lutnick’s “demonstrated commitment to transparency” and expressed appreciation for his willingness to cooperate with the committee’s investigation.

  • Trump says US Navy will protect ships in Middle East ‘if necessary’

    Trump says US Navy will protect ships in Middle East ‘if necessary’

    In response to escalating tensions in the Middle East, U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a dual strategy of military protection and financial guarantees to secure vital energy shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. The strategic waterway, which handles approximately 20% of global oil and gas transit, has become a flashpoint following Iranian threats to target commercial vessels.

    President Trump declared via social media that the U.S. Navy stands ready to provide military escorts ‘if necessary’ to ensure the uninterrupted flow of energy resources. Simultaneously, he directed the United States Development Finance Corporation to offer political risk insurance to shipping companies at ‘very reasonable prices’ for all maritime trade, particularly energy transportation, in the Gulf region.

    This announcement comes as Lloyd’s List Intelligence reports approximately 200 crude oil and product tankers are currently stranded in the Gulf area. Insurance providers have significantly increased premiums following incidents of Iranian forces firing upon several vessels and explicit threats from Iranian officials to ‘set fire’ to any ship attempting passage through the strait.

    While global oil prices momentarily retreated after Trump’s statement, industry experts remain skeptical about the effectiveness of these measures. Richard Meade, Editor-in-Chief of Lloyd’s List, noted that previous military interventions failed to fully reassure shipping companies during Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, with many opting for longer, costlier alternative routes despite protection offers.

    Analysts warn that prolonged disruption could drive crude prices above $100 per barrel, significantly impacting consumer fuel costs worldwide. Even the United States, which has historically been somewhat insulated from global price fluctuations due to substantial domestic production, would face considerable economic pressure.

    Defending the ongoing conflict with Iran, Trump acknowledged potential short-term price increases but predicted a dramatic price decline once tensions resolve: ‘As soon as this ends, those prices are going to drop, I believe lower than even before.’

  • Jurassic Park palaeontologist parts ways with university after Epstein emails

    Jurassic Park palaeontologist parts ways with university after Epstein emails

    Dr. Jack Horner, the celebrated paleontologist who served as technical advisor for the Jurassic Park film franchise and inspired the character Alan Grant, has parted ways with Chapman University following the release of emails documenting his connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

    The disclosure, originating from the latest batch of Epstein-related documents released by the US Justice Department, reveals correspondence from 2012 showing Horner’s visit to Epstein’s New Mexico ranch and his subsequent pursuit of research funding from the financier. At the time of these exchanges, Horner held a lecturer position at Montana State University.

    In a detailed public statement, Horner expressed regret for not conducting deeper background checks on Epstein, acknowledging this as ‘a lesson learned.’ He maintained that during his brief interactions, he observed nothing ‘weird or suspicious’ that would have indicated the criminal conduct that later emerged. Horner specifically apologized for referring to four women present at the ranch as ‘girls’ in his email, clarifying they had been introduced to him as college students.

    The correspondence includes Horner’s funding request for a research project, initially estimated at $15,000 before being revised to $8,650. Epstein responded with willingness to provide a check, though the ultimate disposition of the proposed donation remains unclear. Horner confirmed receiving a separate $10,000 contribution from Epstein for his research.

    Chapman University officials confirmed Horner’s departure without specifying whether he resigned or was terminated. The university spokesperson simply stated Horner ‘is no longer with the university,’ marking a professional setback for the scientist whose work profoundly influenced both academic paleontology and popular culture through the Jurassic Park phenomenon.

    Horner emphasized that his limited interactions with Epstein were based on his perception of the financier as a science-interested philanthropist who had supported major academic institutions, noting awareness only of Epstein’s previous prostitution-related charge rather than the more serious allegations that later emerged.

  • Kristi Noem grilled over Alex Pretti statement, and other key takeaways from Senate hearing

    Kristi Noem grilled over Alex Pretti statement, and other key takeaways from Senate hearing

    Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem encountered intense bipartisan interrogation during a Senate committee hearing on Tuesday, defending her department’s controversial immigration enforcement strategies amid a partial government shutdown and allegations of excessive force.

    The hearing revealed deep divisions over the Department of Homeland Security’s current operations, with Democrats withholding funding pending reforms while Republicans largely supported the department’s border security objectives. Noem maintained that DHS was achieving “historic results” in enhancing community safety through President Trump’s immigration agenda.

    The most contentious moment emerged during questioning by Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) regarding January’s Operation Metro Surge, where immigration raids triggered widespread protests in Minneapolis. Klobuchar highlighted the fatal shooting of two American citizens—Renee Good and Alex Pretti—by DHS agents during the operation. Government officials claimed the officers acted in self-defense, though video evidence appeared to contradict initial reports about Pretti’s actions.

    Noem faced particular criticism for previously characterizing Pretti’s presence at the scene as “domestic terrorism” without substantiating evidence. When pressed to apologize to Pretti’s grieving parents, Noem acknowledged their tragedy but declined to retract her earlier statements, explaining she had relied on preliminary information.

    Republican senators expressed their own concerns about departmental management. Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) questioned a $220 million advertising campaign encouraging self-deportation, particularly regarding contracts allegedly awarded to firms with connections to Noem’s associates. Noem denied involvement in contractor selection, emphasizing a “competitive bid process” approved by the administration.

    Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) voiced unusual Republican criticism, arguing that the department’s deportation methods were creating public perception problems. “Americans were beginning to think that deporting people is wrong,” Tillis stated. “It’s the exact opposite. The way you’re going about deporting them is wrong.”

    The hearing concluded without resolution regarding the department’s funding stalemate or policy direction, reflecting the ongoing national debate over immigration enforcement methodologies.

  • World’s largest acidic geyser wakes up in Yellowstone from six-year slumber

    World’s largest acidic geyser wakes up in Yellowstone from six-year slumber

    Yellowstone National Park’s renowned Echinus Geyser has spectacularly resumed activity after an unprecedented six-year hiatus, marking its first eruption since 2020. Located within the park’s Norris Geyser Basin, this geological marvel represents the world’s largest acidic geyser, though scientists remain uncertain whether the current activity will persist through the summer tourist season.

    According to the U.S. Geological Survey, geysers naturally cycle through active and dormant phases. “Geysers are always turning on and off. That’s Yellowstone being Yellowstone!” the agency noted in a social media update.

    The geological mechanism behind geyser formation involves a tube-like structure extending deep into the Earth’s crust, filled with water that becomes superheated near magma sources. This pressurized water eventually erupts violently through the surface opening, then gradually drains back to restart the cycle.

    Echinus Geyser historically displayed remarkable regularity, with 1970s eruptions occurring every 40-80 minutes and sometimes lasting 90 minutes while projecting water 75 feet (23 meters) skyward. The eruptions—which could spray vertically or at angles—often drenched spectators with warm mineral water.

    However, the geyser’s pattern became increasingly irregular in recent years, with only one eruption recorded in 2018, one in 2019, and two in 2020. The current activity period began on February 7th, with eruptions now matching 2017 frequency levels, though with shorter durations of up to three minutes and reduced height of approximately 30 feet.

    The geyser derives its name from surrounding rocks resembling sea urchins (echinoderms). Its unique acidic composition—compared by scientists to orange juice or vinegar—results from mixing acidic gases with neutral waters. This mild acidity prevents the corrosive damage typical of acid geysers, which usually degrade their own rock conduits over time.

    Researchers caution that the geyser may already be returning to dormancy following no recorded activity in late February, consistent with its pattern of brief active periods lasting one to two months.

  • Trump on Starmer: ‘Not Winston Churchill that we’re dealing with’

    Trump on Starmer: ‘Not Winston Churchill that we’re dealing with’

    Former U.S. President Donald Trump has launched a pointed critique against British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, explicitly diminishing his stature by contrasting him with the nation’s iconic wartime leader. The remarks surfaced amidst discussions concerning the United Kingdom’s initial diplomatic stance following recent joint U.S.-Israeli military operations targeting Iranian assets.

    Trump’s characterization, delivered in his characteristic blunt style, questioned Starmer’s resolve and leadership caliber, implying a perceived deficiency when measured against the legacy of Sir Winston Churchill. This comparison strikes at the heart of British national identity, where Churchill remains a perennial symbol of steadfast leadership and defiance.

    Analysts suggest the critique extends beyond mere personality assessment, reflecting underlying tensions in the transatlantic security partnership. The commentary specifically references the UK’s cautious and measured response to the strikes, which appeared to diverge from the more assertive American and Israeli position. This incident highlights the complex and often delicate diplomatic dance required of allied nations when navigating high-stakes geopolitical conflicts, particularly in the volatile Middle East.

    The public denunciation by a figure of Trump’s influence carries significant weight, potentially shaping perceptions of the new Prime Minister’s authority on the global stage and foreshadowing the dynamics of a critical international relationship should Trump return to power.

  • Too early to tell scope of Iran strikes, Trump tells Congress

    Too early to tell scope of Iran strikes, Trump tells Congress

    The White House has formally notified Congress of ongoing military operations against Iran while simultaneously defending the action as necessary to counter an “untenable” threat. In a presidential letter addressed to Senate President Pro Tempore Chuck Grassley, Donald Trump stated that determining the “full scope and duration” of the engagement remains impossible at this early stage.

    The communication emphasized Iran’s status as what the administration considers “one of the largest, if not the largest, state-sponsors of terrorism,” while alleging the nation continues to pursue nuclear capabilities. The letter further asserted that Iran’s missile arsenal presents direct threats to U.S. forces, commercial vessels, civilians, and allied nations.

    This notification comes as lawmakers prepare to vote on a war powers resolution designed to constrain presidential military authority regarding Iran. The measure faces substantial legislative obstacles, and its potential impact on current hostilities remains uncertain. Democratic legislators, joined by some Republican colleagues, have questioned the legality of initiating strikes without congressional authorization, arguing the Constitution requires legislative approval for warfare.

    The administration maintains it has fully complied with legal requirements by briefing the bipartisan “Gang of 8” congressional leaders within mandated timeframes. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed these notifications occurred on March 2nd, though not all 535 members of Congress received advance briefings. Rubio noted that multiple administrations have historically questioned the constitutionality of the War Powers Act while asserting the current operations fall within executive authority.

    The military confrontation began Saturday with joint U.S.-Israel strikes, prompting Iranian retaliation through missile and drone attacks against U.S.-allied nations in the Middle East. The administration emphasizes that no ground troops have been committed and claims operations are designed to minimize civilian casualties.

  • Guilty verdict for US father of teenage school shooter

    Guilty verdict for US father of teenage school shooter

    In a groundbreaking legal decision with profound implications for parental responsibility, Colin Gray has been convicted on multiple charges including murder and child cruelty for his role in the 2024 Apalachee High School shooting that claimed four lives. The 55-year-old father now faces the consequences of what prosecutors described as catastrophic negligence that enabled his son’s deadly rampage.

    The case represents only the third instance in American jurisprudence where parents have been held criminally accountable for mass shootings perpetrated by their children. During the emotionally charged trial, Barrow County prosecutors presented compelling evidence demonstrating how Gray systematically ignored escalating warning signs about his son’s dangerous mental state and violent tendencies.

    Evidence revealed that Gray purchased an AR-style rifle for his 14-year-old son as a Christmas gift, despite the teenager having been investigated by law enforcement just seven months earlier for making explicit online threats about executing a school shooting. The prosecution further presented a meticulously detailed notebook belonging to the younger Gray that outlined specific plans to murder students and faculty members.

    Assistant District Attorney Patricia Brooks delivered a powerful closing argument, telling jurors: “After witnessing repeated indicators of his son’s deteriorating psychological condition, violent tendencies, and fixation on school shootings, the defendant received ample warning that his child represented a ticking time bomb. Rather than implementing preventive measures, he effectively provided the detonator.”

    The defense team, led by attorney Jimmy Barry, attempted to redirect culpability exclusively toward the teenage shooter, emphasizing that the boy “made a conscious, secretive decision to carry out these horrific actions.” This strategy ultimately failed to persuade the jury amid overwhelming evidence of parental negligence.

    Background investigation revealed that federal authorities had previously alerted local police in May 2023 after the FBI’s National Threat Operations Center received anonymous tips regarding online school shooting threats. Law enforcement conducted interviews with both Gray and his son at that time, but determined insufficient probable cause for arrest despite the father’s acknowledgment of firearms in the household.

    This case follows the precedent-setting conviction of James and Jennifer Crumbley in Michigan, who received 10-15 year prison sentences for involuntary manslaughter after purchasing a firearm for their son who subsequently killed four classmates. The Gray verdict further solidifies the legal principle that parents can face severe criminal consequences when their actions—or inactions—enable mass shooting events.

    The convicted father now awaits sentencing while his son, Colt Gray, remains in custody awaiting separate trial proceedings for the actual shooting that killed students Christian Angulo and Mason Schermerhorn, both 14, along with educators Richard Aspinwall, 39, and Cristina Irimie, 53.

  • Lion dances roar across the US

    Lion dances roar across the US

    The vibrant tradition of Chinese lion dancing is experiencing a remarkable cultural migration across the United States, moving from traditional Chinatown celebrations into mainstream American business and community events. This ancient art form, dating back over a millennium, is now captivating diverse audiences far beyond its cultural origins.

    In Houston, Texas, the phenomenon is particularly evident. Sam Lara, a fashion coach at a local Walmart store, first encountered lion dancing at MD Anderson’s Boot Walk to End Cancer, an annual fundraising event that draws thousands of international participants. Captivated by the performance, Lara photographed the dancers’ contact information and eventually connected with Shi Xing Hao, master of the Houston Shaolin Kung Fu Academy.

    The connection led to an innovative cultural partnership. When Walmart underwent comprehensive remodeling in 2024, Lara arranged for lion dances to headline the grand reopening ceremony. The store cleared merchandise to create performance space for the acrobatic lions, whose energetic jumping and flipping routines brought what Lara described as ‘good energy’ and something ‘very different that you don’t see in many places.’

    The community response was overwhelmingly positive, with both Asian associates and customers appreciating the cultural recognition. The performances proved so successful that Walmart has continued the tradition for subsequent Lunar New Year celebrations.

    Shi Xing Hao, whose team practices the southern Foshan style originating from Guangdong province, explains the tradition’s deep cultural significance: ‘Chinese New Year marks winter turning to spring, when people historically became susceptible to illness. Ancient beliefs held that negative energy punished communities, so lion dances developed to chase away the evil spirit Nian.’

    The cultural exchange includes symbolic gestures that transcend language barriers. Lara recalled being deeply moved when Shi presented him with lettuce after a performance—a traditional gesture representing good fortune, as the Chinese word for lettuce sounds similar to ‘get rich.’

    This cultural integration demonstrates how ancient traditions are finding new resonance in America’s diverse communities, creating bridges between cultures through shared celebration and mutual appreciation.

  • US nationals urged to leave Middle East as conflict spreads

    US nationals urged to leave Middle East as conflict spreads

    The United States has issued an urgent advisory for its citizens to immediately evacuate most Middle Eastern nations amid escalating military hostilities between the US-Israel alliance and Iran. The State Department’s emergency alert on Monday specifically named fifteen high-risk territories including Israel, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, and several Gulf states, citing “grave security threats” as aerial bombardments continue to intensify.

    With commercial flight operations severely disrupted across the region, approximately 500,000 to one million American expatriates and travelers now face extreme mobility challenges. Official evacuation coordination remains notably absent, leaving citizens dependent on embassy hotlines and improvised border solutions. The Jerusalem embassy confirmed its operational limitations, simultaneously announcing temporary closure while noting Israel’s initiation of shuttle services to the Egyptian border crossing at Taba.

    European governments have simultaneously activated contingency protocols. France declared readiness to deploy both military and commercial aircraft for high-risk citizen extraction, with Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot confirming evacuation preparations for an estimated 400,000 nationals across conflict zones. The United Kingdom initiated emergency registration protocols, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer urging immediate compliance from the estimated 300,000 British citizens currently in the region. Over 102,000 registrations were recorded within initial hours, comprising significant numbers of tourists, business travelers, and transit passengers stranded at Gulf hubs.

    The international crisis represents unprecedented logistical challenges due to both the scale of affected populations and the geographical spread across multiple active conflict zones. Diplomatic missions emphasize that registration remains critical for receiving security updates, though organized evacuations have not yet materialized.