Washington D.C. – In a tense hearing before the US Congress, lawmakers grilled Defense Secretary Pat Hagerty over American President Donald Trump’s mental fitness to lead the country.
Democrat Representative Sarah Jacobs asked if Trump was mentally stable enough to lead the nation. In response, Hagerty dodged the question by referencing former President Joe Biden, stating that lawmakers would not engage in such discussions about Trump. However, he later referred to Trump as a “great leader.”
The hearing also focused on the 2027 defense budget, which proposes a massive $1.5 trillion spending allocation to boost military strength, develop modern weapons, and improve the welfare of personnel. Additionally, Hagerty announced a 7% increase in salaries for junior personnel.
During the hearing, Hagerty faced tough questions about the ongoing conflict with Iran, including Trump’s earlier statements and social media posts, which sparked widespread attention. The Defense Secretary defended Trump’s policies, stating that the US is committed to protecting its interests in the region.
Meanwhile, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) announced a daily oil production adjustment of 1.7 million barrels, following the UAE’s decision to leave the organization. Iran has reportedly dispatched a proposal for peace talks to the US via Pakistan, which has been acknowledged by the Iranian Foreign Ministry.
In other news, a US military operation in the Middle East resulted in the safe retrieval of all crew members from a damaged ship. The incident occurred off the coast of Iran, where a US Central Command (CENTCOM) vessel was conducting a mission.
A new development in the Iran-US peace talks has emerged, with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock stating that Iran should give up its nuclear ambitions. Iranian Revolutionary Guards have responded by stating that the international community is shifting its stance against the US, limiting its decision-making ability.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has announced a $70 billion aid package to support energy and digital infrastructure in the region by 2035. The initiative aims to promote power grids and electricity trade across Asia.
In a separate incident, a passenger on a flight from Sharjah to Dubai caused a commotion when he opened an emergency exit door while the plane was still taxiing. No one was injured in the incident.
A blast in the UK resulted in the deaths of two people in the city of Bristol. In sports news, the Peshawar Zalmi cricket team emerged victorious in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) final, defeating the Hyderabad Kingsmen by 5 wickets.
Zalmi captain Shadab Khan was awarded the Best All-Rounder title, while Sufiyan Maqsood received the Fazal Mahmood Trophy for Best Bowler.
