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Politics
Globe at a glance: From secret Iran war talks to Carney’s push for global investment
Your window to world news: Trump’s Kennedy Center threat, a new US-Israel arms deal, secret Iran war talks, Canada’s Europe pivot, AI fears and UPI charges — here’s your roundup for the day
US, Israel, Arab military chiefs meet in Germany: Senior military commanders from the US, Israel and eight Arab countries secretly met in Germany last week to discuss the Iran war and regional security, reported Axios. The meeting reportedly covered US military presence, protected Strait of Hormuz shipping and possible Israeli intelligence support for Saudi operations against the Houthis.
US plans $2.8bn bomb deal for Israel: The Trump administration plans to supply Israel with 40,000 2,000lb bombs in a proposed $2.8 billion arms package, according to the Washington Post. The deal includes MK-84 and BLU-117 bombs and would largely be funded through US foreign military financing for Israel.
Trump threatens Kennedy Center closure: US President Donald Trump threatened to keep Washington’s Kennedy Center closed indefinitely after a judge barred his name from being added to the arts institution. Trump said renovations would not proceed unless the ruling is overturned by a higher court.
Kash Patel defends FBI hiring policy: FBI Director Kash Patel defended revised hiring rules allowing some trafficking and abuse victims to apply despite past involvement in prostitution or bestiality. He said the changes were intended to prevent victims from automatic disqualification.
Carney pitches Canada as safe haven for global investment: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada will pursue a ‘unique security and economic alliance’ with Europe as it seeks to reduce reliance on the US. He pitched Canada as a safe harbour for foreign investment, while announcing tax incentives and plans to attract fresh capital.
Sam Altman says AI fears are justified: OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said people should trust AI companies to ‘do the right thing’ while acknowledging growing concerns about the technology. Speaking at a Salesforce conference, he said AI’s rapid progress has made potential risks easier to imagine.
The big number: The Finance Ministry clarified that person-to-person UPI payments will remain free regardless of the amount. Under the new framework, MDR may apply to eligible merchant payments above Rs 2,000, but customers will not be charged directly.
Quote of the day: "The Supreme Court has really let our Country down! Certain Justices are petrified of these crazed and depraved Democrats, and are totally unable to show the courage necessary to save our America."
This day in history: On this day in 1908, William C. Durant founded General Motors in Flint, Michigan, bringing together several major automobile manufacturers.