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  • US Unveils Trump-Themed Passport for 250th Independence Anniversary

    The United States Department of State has announced plans to release a limited-edition passport featuring the image of President Donald Trump as part of activities marking the country’s 250th independence anniversary. The commemorative document is expected to debut in July.

    Officials say the initiative forms part of broader celebrations tied to the historic milestone.

    Commemorative Passport Design Confirmed

    According to the State Department, the special passport will include customised artwork, with reports indicating that Trump’s portrait will appear on the inside cover. A mock-up shared online also shows his signature embossed in gold.

    Authorities noted that the redesigned passport will retain all existing security features despite the visual changes.

    Limited Release Planned Amid Anniversary Celebrations

    Officials disclosed that the passports will be produced in limited quantities, with reports suggesting around 25,000 units for the commemorative run. However, details on distribution remain unclear.

    It is yet to be confirmed whether the special passports will be issued automatically or made available through a separate request process.

    Part of Wider 250th Anniversary Programme

    The development comes as the United States prepares for a nationwide celebration of its 250th independence anniversary. Planned activities include major public events such as a fireworks display at Mount Rushmore.

    The commemorative passport joins a range of symbolic initiatives typically associated with national milestones.

    Questions Emerge Over Use and Availability

    While commemorative items like coins and park passes are common in the US, a passport remains a globally recognised identification document valid for years. This has raised questions about how the limited-edition version will be used in practice.

    With preparations ongoing, attention is now on further details from authorities regarding rollout and eligibility.

  • Iran Proposes Deal to US to Reopen Strait of Hormuz as War Tensions Escalate

    Iran has proposed a new deal to the United States, offering to reopen the Strait of Hormuz if Washington agrees to lift its blockade on the strategic waterway.

    The proposal was reported by Axios, citing a US official and two sources familiar with the matter.

    Pakistan Acts as Channel for Proposal

    According to the report, the offer was delivered to American authorities through Pakistan, marking a fresh attempt at indirect diplomacy between both nations.

    The deal also reportedly suggests postponing nuclear negotiations to a later stage as tensions remain unresolved.

    Uncertainty Over US Response

    It remains unclear whether President Donald Trump will accept the proposal, as his administration continues to insist that Iran must halt uranium enrichment as part of any agreement.

    Trump has previously stated that the Strait of Hormuz would remain under pressure until Iran reaches a broader deal with the United States.

    Strategic Waterway at Centre of Conflict

    The Strait of Hormuz has remained a key flashpoint in the ongoing conflict involving Iran and US-Israel aligned forces since hostilities escalated earlier this year.

    Iran’s earlier restrictions on the waterway disrupted global oil supply, leading to price increases and energy conservation measures in several countries.

    The US blockade, meanwhile, aims to restrict Iran’s oil exports and limit its access to revenue.

    Global Impact and Rising Casualties

    The wider conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths across Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and parts of the Gulf region, with both military and civilian casualties reported.

    Efforts to reach a diplomatic resolution have so far stalled despite continued backchannel engagements.

    Trump to Review Situation in Security Meeting

    President Donald Trump is expected to hold a Situation Room meeting on Monday with senior national security and foreign policy officials to assess the latest developments and possible next steps.

     

  • Trump Reacts Hours After White House Security Breach, Suspect Apprehended

    U.S. President Donald Trump spoke out hours after a security incident near the White House, calling his role “the hardest job” amid what authorities describe as an apparent assassination attempt.

    Trump said an armed man charged a security checkpoint before being subdued by the United States Secret Service. “A man with multiple weapons charged the checkpoint and was taken down,” he said, calling the suspect a “very sick person” and a “thug.”

    Secret Service Officer Survives

    The president confirmed a Secret Service officer was shot but survived thanks to protective gear. “He was saved by his bulletproof vest and is doing great,” Trump added.

    The incident occurred during the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton, where gunfire near a screening area caused panic and forced the evacuation of officials, journalists, and guests.

    Suspect in Custody

    Authorities identified the suspect as 31-year-old Cole Allen, who was arrested and is expected to face charges in court on Monday. U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, Jeanine Pirro, said Allen faces multiple charges, including using a firearm during a violent crime and assaulting a federal officer.

    “This individual was intent on doing as much harm as possible,” Pirro said, adding that no one else was injured due to the checkpoint.

    Trump Urges Peace Amid Threats

    Speaking at a press briefing, Trump urged Americans to commit to peaceful resolution despite political tensions. “This is not the first time our republic has been attacked by a would-be assassin,” he said.

    On whether he was the intended target, Trump responded cautiously: “I guess.” He described the dangers of political leadership, noting that even the best security cannot fully prevent determined threats.

    Trump said the incident would not affect his policy direction, including tensions involving Iran. Investigators continue to determine the suspect’s motive.

    Ongoing Security Concerns

    The Secret Service confirmed the shooting occurred at a screening area and is under active investigation. The scare adds to a series of threats Trump has faced in recent years, including a near-fatal attack during a 2024 campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

     

  • Gunfire Scare Disrupts White House Dinner as Trump, Melania Evacuated

    United States President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were evacuated on Saturday night after gunfire erupted near the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C., triggering panic among thousands of attendees.

    Gunman opens fire at security checkpoint

    The incident occurred at the venue’s main screening area when a man reportedly armed with a shotgun attempted to breach security and opened fire.

    A Secret Service agent was hit during the attack but escaped injury due to protective gear, officials confirmed.

    Panic as dignitaries rushed to safety

    Security operatives quickly moved the president, first lady, and other top officials out of the hall as confusion spread across the venue.

    Guests at the high-profile event were forced to dive for cover, while agents secured the premises.

    Senior officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, were also ordered to the ground during the operation.

    Suspect apprehended at the scene

    Authorities confirmed that the suspected gunman was swiftly arrested and taken into custody without further casualties.

    The suspect has been identified as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen from California and is expected to face charges in court.

    Trump reacts, praises security response

    In a post shortly after the incident, Trump commended law enforcement for their swift action, stating that all senior officials were safe.

    “Shooter had been apprehended… Secret Service and Law Enforcement did a fantastic job,” he said.

    He described the suspect as a “would-be assassin” who had managed to breach a key security layer before being stopped.

    Event cancelled amid security concerns

    The White House Correspondents’ Dinner was immediately called off following the incident, with Trump expressing hope that it could be rescheduled within 30 days.

    The development comes months after a previous security scare in July 2024, when Trump was rushed off stage during a campaign rally after gunfire, sustaining an injury to his ear.

  • Trump Rules Out Nuclear Strike on Iran After Earlier Threats Raise Tension

    United States President Donald Trump has ruled out the use of nuclear weapons against Iran, days after earlier threats raised fears of a possible escalation in the conflict.

    Trump dismisses nuclear option

    Speaking to reporters at the White House on Thursday, Trump said conventional military strength was sufficient and there was no need for nuclear deployment.

    “No, I wouldn’t use it,” he said.

    “Why would I use a nuclear weapon when we’ve… in a very conventional way, decimated them without it?”

    He added that nuclear weapons should never be used by any country.

    Shift from earlier warning

    The statement marks a shift from Trump’s earlier remarks on April 7, when he warned that a “whole civilisation will die tonight,” a comment that sparked global concern.

    Hours after that threat, however, the US agreed to a ceasefire in the conflict involving Israel, a truce that has since been extended.

    Vance comments clarified

    During the crisis, Vice President JD Vance had suggested the US could deploy weapons “not previously used,” fuelling speculation about nuclear options.

    The White House later clarified that his statement did not refer to nuclear weapons.

    Vance was also involved in negotiations with Iran over its nuclear programme, though talks did not produce a breakthrough.

    Focus remains on Iran’s nuclear programme

    Reiterating his position, Trump said the US priority is to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

    “We want an Iran without a nuclear weapon… that’s going to try and blow up one of our cities or the entire Middle East,” he said.

    Iran has repeatedly denied pursuing nuclear weapons, while the International Atomic Energy Agency has said an atomic bomb was not imminent before the conflict.

    Global context and policy stance

    The United States remains the only country to have used nuclear weapons in warfare, during World War II in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

    Although Israel is widely believed to possess nuclear weapons, it has not officially confirmed its arsenal.

    Trump’s position contrasts with longstanding US defence policy, which keeps the option of nuclear use under extreme circumstances and has resisted calls for a “no first use” pledge.

    The development is drawing attention in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as global tensions and nuclear policy debates continue.

     

  • Iran-Linked Tankers Bypass US Hormuz Blockade as Trump Insists Pressure Is Working

    At least 34 Iran-linked tankers have reportedly bypassed the United States blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, raising fresh questions over its effectiveness even as US President Donald Trump insists the pressure is hitting Iran’s economy hard.

    Tankers slip past blockade

    A report by the Financial Times said dozens of vessels linked to Iran moved through the strategic waterway in recent days despite the blockade imposed on April 13.

    Out of the 34 ships, at least 19 tankers exited the Gulf while 15 others entered from the Arabian Sea heading toward Iran.

    Among those that left, six were confirmed to be carrying Iranian crude oil, with an estimated 10.7 million barrels valued at roughly $910 million based on discounted pricing.

    Evasion tactics exposed

    One of the vessels, Dorena, reportedly switched off its tracking transponder before passing through the Strait.

    It later carried out a ship-to-ship oil transfer off Malaysia to disguise the origin of the cargo.

    Other sanctioned vessels, including Murlikishan and Alicia, were also said to have entered the Gulf despite restrictions.

    US claims success despite gaps

    Trump, however, maintained that the United States “totally controls” the Strait of Hormuz and described the blockade as a “tremendous success.”

    He said the restrictions would remain until a final agreement is reached with Iran.

    “Iran is collapsing financially… They want the Strait of Hormuz opened immediately,” Trump wrote, claiming Tehran is losing up to $500 million daily.

    US Central Command also said American forces had directed 28 vessels to turn back since the blockade began, though only a few ships have been detained or boarded so far.

    Tensions deepen in strategic waters

    Iran, on its part, said control of the Strait has “reverted to its previous state,” adding that vessels now require clearance from its naval forces.

    The situation has further escalated with reports of attacks on ships in the waterway, underscoring growing tensions between Washington and Tehran.

    US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the blockade targets Iran’s key revenue streams, warning that any entity aiding Iranian oil trade risks sanctions.

    Global concerns rise

    The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global shipping route for oil, and disruptions have continued to raise concerns over energy markets and international trade.

    The unfolding developments are dominating global headlines and feature prominently in latest Nigerian news, as well as breaking news Nigeria today, given their impact on global oil prices and economic stability.

  • Trump Administration Terminates $11m Migrant Child Care Contract With Catholic Charities in Miami

    The United States government under President Donald Trump has cancelled an $11 million federal contract with Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Miami, ending a decades-long partnership focused on sheltering and caring for unaccompanied migrant children in Florida.

    What happened

    According to reports from the Miami Herald, the Office of Refugee Resettlement under the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) informed Catholic Charities in late March that the contract would be terminated.

    The programme, which functioned as a federally funded foster care system for migrant children arriving in the US without parents or guardians, is expected to shut down within three months.

    The decision ends a partnership that dates back more than 60 years.

    Why the decision was taken

    HHS officials said the move is part of ongoing efforts to reduce costs and consolidate migrant care facilities as the number of unaccompanied minors in federal custody declines.

    A spokesperson noted that daily numbers have dropped to about 1,900 under the Trump administration, compared to a peak of 22,000 during the Biden years.

    Officials also linked the decision to broader immigration enforcement and anti-smuggling policies, although Catholic Charities was not directly accused of wrongdoing.

    Church reacts

    Archbishop of Miami, Most Revd Thomas Wenski, described the decision as sudden and unexpected, warning that it could disrupt a long-standing humanitarian system.

    “The US government has abruptly decided to end more than 60 years of relationship with Catholic Charities in the Archdiocese of Miami,” he said.

    He added that the organisation had built a strong track record in caring for vulnerable children, calling its service “unmatched” in quality and consistency.

    What the programme handled

    The Miami-based initiative included an 81-bed children’s facility in Miami-Dade County and provided foster care placement, trauma support, and family reunification services for migrant children.

    Its origins trace back to the 1960s, including Operation Pedro Pan, a US-Catholic Church effort that helped relocate thousands of Cuban children fleeing the Castro regime.

    Wider tensions

    The development comes amid reported tensions between the Trump administration and the leadership of the Catholic Church.

    Earlier this week, President Trump criticised Pope Leo XIV, calling him “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy,” comments the Pope responded to by saying he was not afraid of the administration.

    What next

    Catholic officials have questioned the decision, arguing that replacing such a long-standing and specialised system will be difficult.

    “It is baffling that the US government would shut down a programme that it would be hard-pressed to replicate,” Archbishop Wenski said.

  • Iran Embassy Shares AI Video “Striking” Trump After Messiah Image Backlash

    An Iranian diplomatic mission has released an AI-generated video depicting a religious figure confronting US President Donald Trump, escalating tensions after backlash over an earlier image he shared portraying himself in a Christ-like role.

    What sparked it

    The controversy began after Trump posted an image on Truth Social showing himself in a messianic-style pose, which drew criticism from religious groups and online users who described it as inappropriate.

    The image quickly went viral, with many accusing the US president of blasphemy and drawing parallels with religious warnings about false messianic figures.

    The AI video response

    In response, the Iranian Embassy shared a dramatized AI-generated clip showing a figure representing Jesus confronting Trump.

    In the video, the figure declares, “Your reckoning has come,” before striking him and casting him into a fiery pit.

    The clip has since circulated widely, further fueling reactions across social media and political circles.

    Trump defends post

    Reacting to the backlash, Trump dismissed the interpretation of the image, insisting it was misunderstood.

    “It wasn’t a depiction. It was me,” he said, explaining that the image was intended to portray him as a doctor.

    “It was supposed to be me as a doctor making people better… and I do make people better,” he added.

    Global reactions

    The controversy has drawn responses beyond the US, including from Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, who condemned Trump’s remarks about Pope Leo XIV.

    “I condemn the insult… the desecration of Jesus… is not acceptable,” he said.

    The issue has also reignited tensions between Trump and the Pope after the US president criticised the pontiff’s leadership.

    Pope responds

    Pope Leo XIV declined to escalate the situation but reaffirmed his stance on global peace and moral responsibility.

    “I don’t want to get into a debate with him,” the Pope said, stressing that religious messages should not be misused.

    He added that he would continue to speak out on war, peace, and global dialogue.

    Wider tensions

    The development comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran, following weeks of conflict in the Middle East.

    The latest exchange signals a growing mix of political, religious, and digital narratives shaping the ongoing standoff.

  • Iran Rejects Trump’s 15-point Peace Plan, Issues Counter-demands

    Iran has rejected a United States ceasefire proposal and countered with its own five-point conditions for ending the ongoing war, dealing a blow to diplomatic efforts being quietly advanced by the Trump administration.

    Iran’s state broadcaster Press TV, citing a senior political-security official, confirmed on Wednesday that Tehran had rejected the American proposal. “Iran will end the war when it decides to do so and when its own conditions are met,” the official said. “No negotiations will be held prior to that.”

    What was in Trump’s proposal

    The US proposal, transmitted to Tehran through Pakistan, called on Iran to commit to never pursuing nuclear weapons and to dismantle three of its main nuclear facilities, Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow. It also sought a halt to uranium enrichment, a transfer of enriched material to the International Atomic Energy Agency, the suspension of ballistic missile production, an end to financial support for regional armed groups, including Hezbollah and the Houthis, and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

    In exchange, the proposal offered a full lifting of international sanctions on Iran and US assistance in developing Iran’s civilian nuclear programme.

    The White House, however, stopped short of confirming the full details. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said there were “elements of truth” in media reports but cautioned that some accounts were “not entirely factual.”

    Iran’s five conditions

    Iran’s counter-proposal, published through state media, set out five conditions: a complete halt to attacks and assassinations by its enemies; concrete guarantees that no further war would be imposed on the Islamic Republic; compensation for war damages; a comprehensive ceasefire across all fronts, including Iran-aligned groups; and recognition of Iran’s sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz.

    Iranian military spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaghari added that Iran plans to charge tolls on ships passing through the strategic waterway, saying: “The authority to issue passage permits is ours.”

    Iran’s foreign minister contradicts state media

    Despite the public rejection, mixed signals emerged from Tehran. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told state media that the US proposal was still being reviewed by top authorities in Tehran, and that an exchange of messages between the two countries via mediators “does not mean negotiations with the US.”

    Trump’s position

    President Trump told reporters on Tuesday that Iranians “would like to make a deal” and had “agreed they will never have a nuclear weapon.” Iran denies any such agreement and insists its nuclear programme is for civilian use only.

    Background

    The conflict began on 28 February 2026 when the US and Israel launched coordinated strikes against Iran, targeting key military officials and facilities. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in the strikes, with his son Mojtaba Khamenei later chosen as his successor. Iran responded with missile and drone attacks on Israel, American military bases in the Middle East, and Gulf states, while also moving to restrict shipping through the Strait of Hormuz — through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes.

    Diplomatic efforts continue through third-party intermediaries, including Pakistan and Turkey. The UN Human Rights Commissioner has warned that the conflict risks drawing in countries on an unprecedented global scale, urging influential states to use all available means to help end the fighting. RNN.NG will continue to update this story as developments unfold.