Global Pulse

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  • 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.

  • Operations in Iran could last a month

    Operations in Iran could last a month

    The United States administration has projected that its joint military campaign with Israel inside Iranian territory could extend for up to four weeks, a timeline disclosed amid mounting congressional scrutiny over the operation’s legal foundations. This development emerges as the Pentagon confirmed the deaths of four American service members during Iran’s initial retaliatory strikes, with four others sustaining injuries.

    The political landscape in Washington has fractured dramatically over the authorization of force. Republican Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky condemned the operation as “acts of war unauthorized by Congress,” while former Trump ally Marjorie Taylor Greene denounced the strikes as betraying the “America First” doctrine. Conversely, North Carolina Republican Pat Harrigan contended the 1973 War Powers Resolution provides presidential authority for such military action for up to 60 days without congressional consultation.

    Democratic opposition has been unequivocal. Senator Tim Kaine declared the operation “an illegal war” during a Fox News appearance, emphasizing that the executive branch acted “without even notification to the vast majority of us.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio and defense officials are scheduled to brief Congress on Tuesday regarding the escalating situation.

    The assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has created a power vacuum that analysts predict will trigger significant regional realignment and prolonged instability. Abu-Bakr Al-Desouky, an Egyptian expert on Gulf affairs, warned that this violation of Iran’s red lines provides justification for Tehran to escalate and broaden its targeting scope.

    Internationally, the operation has drawn severe criticism from security experts. Marc Weller of Chatham House’s Global Governance and Security Centre asserted that Washington has “taken a further, major step in upsetting the global order” by bypassing United Nations Security Council protocols for authorized use of force.

    In a related domestic incident, a gunman in Texas wearing clothing with Iranian flag motifs and religious inscriptions killed two people and wounded fourteen before being neutralized by police. FBI investigators are examining potential terrorism connections despite the absence of a confirmed motive.

  • Philadelphia chef puts a new spin on old classics

    Philadelphia chef puts a new spin on old classics

    In Philadelphia’s culinary landscape, Chef Kurt Evans is pioneering a unique gastronomic movement that transcends traditional boundaries. The 40-year-old West Philadelphia native has transformed a former mom-and-pop Chinese takeout into Black Dragon, an establishment that masterfully blends American and Chinese culinary traditions with distinct African American flavors.

    The restaurant’s aesthetic carefully preserves its Chinese heritage while incorporating meaningful cultural elements. Vintage wallpaper displays historical photographs with empowering messages, while an orange neon sign proclaims ‘Food is our common ground’—a philosophy that co-owner Kyle Moore describes as essential to their mission. ‘Food is where different cultures, ethnicities can come together without separation,’ Moore emphasizes.

    Evans’ approach is deeply rooted in historical understanding. He explains how discriminatory policies historically channeled Chinese immigrants toward low-income neighborhoods, creating natural culinary cross-pollination. ‘Many Chinese stores may have been black Americans’ first cultural experience,’ Evans notes, highlighting how economic circumstances forged unexpected cultural connections.

    The chef’s personal journey began in the 1990s when a teacher introduced him to General Tso’s chicken—a flavor that remained etched in his memory. His professional path evolved from hospital cooking to various kitchen roles before conceptualizing Black Dragon, an idea that matured over nine years before its 2024 debut.

    What began as a neighborhood establishment has gained remarkable recognition, attracting visitors far beyond West Philadelphia. The restaurant’s growing prominence even captured political attention, with former Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign team hiring Evans to cater events.

    Local patron Stepheneecee Williams, who works at a nearby pharmacy, appreciates the cultural synthesis: ‘Chinese restaurants are a staple in the black community… We do live side by side.’ Evans’ culinary innovation demonstrates how food can serve as both cultural preservation and bridge-building medium, creating spaces where diverse communities find common ground through shared culinary experiences.

  • US sanctions Rwanda’s military and top commanders over fighting in DR Congo

    US sanctions Rwanda’s military and top commanders over fighting in DR Congo

    In a significant diplomatic escalation, the United States has levied sanctions against Rwanda’s military apparatus and four high-ranking commanders for their alleged role in destabilizing the Democratic Republic of Congo. The U.S. Treasury Department asserts that the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) has not only trained and equipped the M23 rebel faction but has actively participated in combat operations alongside them, directly violating the Washington Accords peace agreement brokered by the U.S. just three months prior.

    The sanctions target Army Chief of Staff Vincent Nyakarundi, 5th Infantry Division Commander Ruki Karusisi, Chief of Defence Staff Mubarakh Muganga, and Special Operations Head Stanislas Gashugi. These measures freeze any U.S.-held assets belonging to the individuals and the RDF while prohibiting American entities from engaging in financial transactions with them.

    Rwanda’s government issued a swift and forceful rebuttal, denouncing the sanctions as one-sided and factually distorted. Kigali maintains that its military presence is purely defensive, aimed at countering security threats from armed groups within Congo. It further accused the DRC government of violating ceasefires through indiscriminate drone attacks and employing ethnic militias.

    The Congolese government, in contrast, expressed profound appreciation for the U.S. action, viewing it as a robust endorsement of its sovereignty. The Trump administration emphasized its readiness to utilize all available tools to ensure both nations honor their December commitments, which U.S. President Donald Trump had hailed as a historic step toward peace and a means to secure critical mineral supply chains from the cobalt and copper-rich region.

    The mineral-rich eastern DRC has been embroiled in conflict for over three decades, with the recent unrest intensifying when M23 captured the provincial capital Goma last year. The U.S. statement warned that the rebel group’s continued presence near Burundi’s border, enabled by Rwandan support, risks escalating the conflict into a broader regional war and is responsible for horrific human rights abuses against civilians.

  • Six US soldiers killed in Iranian strike on Kuwait base

    Six US soldiers killed in Iranian strike on Kuwait base

    The United States has confirmed the deaths of six American service members following an Iranian missile strike on a military facility in Kuwait this Sunday. Initial reports from U.S. Central Command indicated three casualties, but the toll rose significantly on Monday after one soldier succumbed to injuries and two additional bodies were recovered from the debris.

    Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth verified that a U.S. bunker in Kuwait was struck after Iranian missiles bypassed air defense systems during Tehran’s retaliatory offensive. He described the target as a ‘fortified tactical operations center’ hit by a ‘powerful weapon,’ though specific location details remain undisclosed.

    Contrasting this account, three U.S. military officials familiar with the incident revealed to CBS News that personnel were stationed in a temporary office setup—specifically a trailer shielded by 12-foot steel-reinforced concrete barriers. These officials raised concerns about whether the structure provided adequate protection against such attacks.

    This incident marks the first confirmed U.S. fatalities since the commencement of joint military operations with Israel against Iran. The attack underscores the vulnerability of American forces in the region, where over 13,000 troops are stationed under longstanding defense agreements with Kuwait.

    In a separate development, three U.S. fighter jets were lost in Kuwait due to a ‘friendly fire’ incident on Monday. All pilots successfully ejected and survived. Iranian state media subsequently claimed responsibility for downing the aircraft, though no evidence was provided to support this assertion.

    The strike forms part of Iran’s broader retaliation campaign targeting U.S.-allied Gulf nations, including Bahrain, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar, signaling escalating regional tensions.