IRAN PUSHES BACK AGAINST UN'S NUCLEAR WATCHDOG
Tehran tells International Atomic Energy Agency that it plans to open new uranium enrichment facility in response to watchdog's designation as breaching non-proliferation obligations.
In a move sparked by the United Nations' Nuclear Watchdog agency, Iran has announced its intentions to establish a new uranium enrichment facility, according to an agency official. The announcement follows the agency's board of governors declaring Iran in breach of non-proliferation obligations on Thursday.
While no further details were provided by Iranian state television, it was stated that several measures are being taken as a result of the resolution.
The development comes amid escalating tensions between Iran and the international community over its nuclear program.
In other news:
US AND CHINA SETTLE ON TARIFF TERMS
As part of a deal announced by President Donald Trump on Wednesday, China has agreed to provide the United States with rare earth minerals, while allowing Chinese students to attend US universities. Tariffs on Chinese goods are set to rise to 55%, up from the existing 30% levy.
The agreement is subject to final approval by President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping.
Gaza AID-DISTRIBUTION SITES UNDER FIRE
A fresh wave of violence in Gaza has claimed the lives of at least 36 people, with over 200 wounded near sites run by the Israeli government-sponsored Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. The Palestinian death toll from the ongoing conflict has now surpassed 55,000.
Hamas and Israel have made competing claims about a recent clash between Gaza's Hamas-run police force and an Israeli group.
EPA REVOKES BIDEN-ERA RULE ON CARBON EMISSIONS
The Environmental Protection Agency announced Wednesday that it plans to repeal a 2024 rule requiring power plants to cut carbon emissions by the mid-2030s. The move comes amid questions from industry stakeholders about the timeline, commercial viability of emissions reduction technology, and potential strain on the electric grid.
NEW YORK APPROVES ASSISTED SUICIDE BILL
A contentious bill allowing medically assisted suicide for individuals deemed incurable has been approved in New York State. The measure now requires the signature of Governor to become law.
Eleven other states and Washington D.C. have similar laws, which opponents argue should focus on improving end-of-life medical care rather than resorting to lethal medication.
SMITHSONIAN REReviewS ITS CONTENT UNDER TRUMP EXECUTIVE ORDER
The Smithsonian Institution's Board of Regents has undertaken a review of its content following an executive order by President Trump requiring the removal of "improper, divisive or anti-American ideology" from its museums. The move is seen as an attempt to reshape American cultural institutions.
BRIAN WILSON LEAVES A LEGACY AS ICONIC AMERICAN SONGWRTHER
Legendary Beach Boys co-founder Brian Wilson has passed away at the age of 82. His music had a profound impact on American culture, inspiring concept albums like The Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" and cementing his place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.