Former President Donald Trump issued a cautionary note on Truth Social, attributing the orchestration of Houthi attacks to Iran, accompanied by a threat of substantial retaliation. He alleged that Iran is providing weapons, financial backing, and intelligence to the Houthis, emphasizing that any forthcoming attacks would be regarded as direct acts of aggression from Iran.
Key points:
- Trump labelled the Houthis as “sinister mobsters and thugs” under Iran’s control.
- He accused Iran of pretending to be a victim while orchestrating the Houthi attacks.
- He warned of serious repercussions for Iran if the Houthis launch further strikes.
- His remarks indicate a potential for military actions extending beyond striking the Houthis.
Stay tuned with Newsweek for further updates.
Trump cautions Iran over Houthi incursions, threatens severe actions
In a Truth Social post, Trump criticized Iran’s involvement in bolstering Houthi aggressions in Yemen, deeming the group as “sinister mobsters and thugs” backed by Iran.
Map highlights Iranian spy ship as a potential U.S. target
National Security Adviser Mike Waltz stated that the U.S. is ready to intensify its military operations in Yemen by targeting Iranian vessels supporting the Houthi rebel faction.
“We will not only hold the Houthis accountable, but we will also hold Iran, their backers, responsible,” Waltz noted, indicating that Iranian assets involved in Houthi attacks could become targets for the U.S.
Escalating U.S. military action to include Iranian ships and personnel represents a significant escalation in an already volatile situation. The Houthis have repeatedly attacked shipping channels, compelling global trade to reroute away from the Red Sea.
U.S. officials assert that Iran’s support of Houthi forces poses a direct threat to international commerce and security, though Iran denies these allegations, claiming the Houthis operate independently.
Read the complete story by Amir Daftar on Newsweek.
Trump to discuss Ukraine conflict with Putin, focusing on ceasefire and territorial concessions
Trump is set to engage with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday to negotiate an end to the Ukraine conflict. Trump is advocating for a 30-day ceasefire and is open to discussions on territorial concessions, including the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant currently occupied by Russian forces.
While Ukraine has accepted the ceasefire proposal, President Zelenskiy insists that Ukrainian sovereignty remains non-negotiable. Russia seeks security guarantees, such as Ukraine’s neutrality and restrictions on its military. The talks’ outcome remains uncertain, as both parties face significant hurdles in achieving a peace agreement.
Schumer halts book tour amid intense backlash over GOP funding bill
Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images
Minority Senate Leader Chuck Schumer has canceled a multi-city tour to promote his upcoming book amidst significant backlash from Democrat constituents after he voted in favor of the Republican stopgap spending bill.
Democratic activists have protested outside Schumer’s Brooklyn residence, demanding his resignation following his vote to avert a government shutdown. Furthermore, protests have been organized for each stop on the book tour, which includes Atlanta, Washington, Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York.
A spokesperson for Schumer informed the New York Times that his book tour for “Antisemitism in America: A Warning” was being postponed due to “security concerns.”
Trump reacts to judge’s decision regarding rehiring federal employees
In a recent interaction with journalists, Trump was queried about his intentions to adhere to a judge’s ruling mandating the government to rehire federal employees who had been dismissed.
Trump appeared uninformed about the ruling, responding with, “What are you talking about?”
Upon further questioning, he replied, “That’s a very dangerous decision for our country.”
Q: Are you planning to comply with the judge’s order regarding rehiring the federal workers?
TRUMP: What are you talking about?
Q: The judge’s ruling that mandates the government to rehire those fired federal workers. Will you comply?
TRUMP: That’s a very dangerous decision for our country pic.twitter.com/QA5rMpBijN
Russian stocks surpass Wall Street amidst Trump-led thaw
KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/Getty Images
Stocks in Russia’s markets, as well as the ruble, are experiencing an upswing amid dialogues between Moscow and Washington concerning potential peace discussions for the ongoing war in Ukraine.
The Moscow Exchange (MOEX) and the dollar-denominated RTS index saw an increase on Monday, while the ruble reached a seven-month high against the dollar, buoyed by optimism that the Trump administration may reconsider sanctions on Russia.
Since December 17, the MOEX has surged by over 800 points, while the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) has dropped nearly 300 points.
The sanctions imposed by the United States and European Union following President Vladimir Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine aimed to sever Russia from the global financial system, resulting in turbulence in Russia’s economic landscape, characterized by heightened inflation and workforce shortages. Nevertheless, the promise of an upturn in Russian markets may bolster Putin’s efforts to fund his military operations.
Upon the MOEX’s opening on Monday, the index increased by 1.71 percent to exceed 3,249 points, an 865-point rise from the 2,384 recorded on December 17. Conversely, as of Monday’s opening, the NYSE was at 19,223—a 294-point decrease from the 19,517 noted on December 17.
Read the full account from Brendan Cole on Newsweek.
U.S. retail sales see slight uptick in February, indicating careful consumer spending
The latest data from the Commerce Department indicates that U.S. retail sales climbed marginally by 0.2% in February, following a notable decline of 1.2% in January. This modest rebound suggests that consumers are feeling more cautious amid growing economic concerns. Increased spending was recorded at grocery stores, gardening and home improvement retailers, and online platforms, while sales dipped at automotive dealerships, dining establishments, and electronics shops.
This slight increase reflects the rising caution among consumers, as uncertainties related to the stock market volatility and President Trump’s tariff threats and possible governmental budget cuts continue to loom over businesses and consumers alike.
What will become of deportees at El Salvador prison?
Over the weekend, the Trump administration deported hundreds of alleged gang members to El Salvador’s mega-prison, the Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT).
The administration denied any breach of U.S. District Judge James E. Boasberg’s order, which temporarily halted deportations based on an 18th-century wartime declaration aimed at Venezuelan gang members.
On Sunday morning, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that 250 alleged members of MS-13 and Tren de Aragua (TdA) gangs had been deported to El Salvador, despite a judge’s order to pause removals and return any deportation flights.
Both TdA and MS-13 have been classified as terrorist organizations by the Trump administration.
The U.S. government’s decision to deport these individuals raises considerable legal and human rights issues. By invoking the rarely utilized Alien Enemies Act of 1798, the administration circumvented conventional legal channels, leading to allegations of executive overreach. Moreover, the conditions at CECOT, a facility notorious for its harsh treatment and mass incarceration, have attracted global scrutiny.
Read the full narrative by Billal Rahman on Newsweek.
Alex Jones urges Trump to cease Diet Coke consumption, branding it ‘genetically modified E. coli’
Alex Jones has publicly urged Donald Trump to stop his consumption of Diet Coke, claiming that the drink contains “genetically modified E. coli.” Jones, a prominent conspiracy theorist, criticized Trump’s Diet Coke habits, suggesting potential health risks due to aspartame, a sweetener found in the soda. Trump is known to be a fan of Diet Coke, reportedly consuming up to 12 cans daily, and previously had a Diet Coke button installed in the Oval Office.
Aspartame, the sweetener in question, is considered safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA); however, some research, including a 2023 report from the International Agency for Research on Cancer, has raised concerns regarding its potential carcinogenic properties, although the FDA contends otherwise. Despite Jones’ assertions, there exists no evidence indicating that aspartame is derived from genetically modified E. coli bacteria.
Newsweek has reached out to the White House for comments on Jones’ claims.
WARNING: President Trump, Elon Musk, And Millions Of Other Americans Are Eating The Toxic Feces Of Genetically Modified E. Coli Bacteria When They Consume Diet Coke & Thousands Of Other Contaminated Products Containing Aspartame
» WATCH/SHARE THE LIVE X STREAM HERE:… pic.twitter.com/Jy3ApAhgFF
Justice Department claims deported doctor possessed Hezbollah photos on her phone
The U.S. Justice Department has revealed that Rasha Alawieh, a kidney specialist deported to Lebanon, had “sympathetic” images and videos of Hezbollah leaders on her mobile phone, according to Politico.
Alawieh, previously employed in Rhode Island, was deported despite holding a valid U.S. visa, raising questions about the legitimacy of her deportation. A judge mandated that she receive 48 hours’ notice before deportation—a condition her legal team contends was disregarded by Customs and Border Protection.
Massachusetts federal judge Leo Sorokin is expected to review the situation today.
Trump claims negotiations are focusing on asset division as Russia-Ukraine talks continue
Trump announced on Sunday that talks aimed at resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict have included discussions about “dividing up certain assets,” suggesting progress in the negotiations. He plans to converse with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday, following Ukraine’s acceptance of a U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire. Trump emphasized that essential issues like land and power plants have already been discussed, although details remain vague. The Kremlin has confirmed the upcoming discussion but has not disclosed additional information.
This dialogue follows a mixed response from Russia to the ceasefire proposal. The parties are attempting to navigate sensitive issues, particularly territorial concessions, with Ukraine hesitant to surrender land. Nonetheless, U.S. officials believe some compromises may be crucial for a ceasefire, raising concerns among European leaders regarding Trump’s approach toward granting early concessions to Moscow.
Wall Street shows stability after recent fluctuations
Wall Street exhibited signs of recovery on Monday after a period of volatility, with the S&P 500 rising by 0.2%. The index is rebounding from its fourth consecutive week of losses. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 97 points, while the Nasdaq composite slightly increased by 0.1%.
Despite the more stable session, worries regarding Trump’s ongoing trade war and an impending decision from the Federal Reserve on interest rates still weigh on investors. Analysts express concern that uncertainties arising from Trump’s unpredictable policy announcements may cause U.S. businesses and households to reduce spending.
Can Donald Trump legally revoke Joe Biden’s pardons? Here’s what to understand
Brendan Smialowski/Getty Images
Experts in law have informed Newsweek that President Joe Biden’s pardons remain intact even if he employed an autopen for his signatures.
On March 17, President Donald Trump claimed in a Truth Social post that his predecessor’s last-minute pardons for members of Congress who were involved in the January 6 inquiry were “void, vacant, and of no further significance,” alleging that they were signed using an autopen.
However, the Constitution does not mandate that pardons be issued in a written format, as clarified by Stephen Gillers, a law professor at New York University, in a statement to Newsweek.
The White House has been contacted for comments via email.
Throughout his campaign, Trump has repeatedly threatened to pursue his main political opponents, including those who participated in the investigation of the Capitol attack.
Biden had granted preemptive pardons to members and staff of the House committee that investigated the riot, which included Democratic Representative Bennie Thompson of Mississippi and former Republican congresswoman Liz Cheney, along with Dr. Anthony Fauci and retired General Mark Milley, to shield them from potential targeting by the Trump administration.
The power to grant pardons has long been deemed one of the most absolute authorities held by a president. Trump has acknowledged that it would ultimately be up to the courts to determine the validity of Biden’s pardons, but it would set a significant precedent if he is able to overturn his predecessor’s actions.
Read the full story by Khaleda Rahman on Newsweek.
Trump authorizes airstrikes against Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen
Trump has authorized airstrikes targeting Houthi rebels in Yemen, who have initiated attacks on military and commercial vessels in the Red Sea, intensifying following the conflict escalation in Gaza in October 2023. The Houthis have claimed responsibility for these assaults on ships linked to Israel or its allies, including the U.S. and the U.K., in solidarity with the Palestinians.
Nevertheless, many vessels targeted had minimal ties to the ongoing conflict. Over 100 merchant vessels have been hit by missiles and drones, resulting in two ships sinking and four sailors perishing. Attacks diminished following the Gaza ceasefire in January.
Trump invokes Alien Enemies Act, judge temporarily blocks deportations
On Saturday, Trump invoked the Alien Enemies Act for the first time since WWII, thereby granting himself expansive powers to deport individuals associated with the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. This act allows for the deportation of non-citizens without court hearings.
Shortly afterward, U.S. District Judge James E. Boasberg issued an injunction, temporarily suspending the deportations for two weeks and scheduling a hearing to review the situation.
Previously, Trump had hinted at using extraordinary powers to tackle illegal immigration through his campaign and executive orders.
Trump claims Biden’s pardons are void in Truth Social post
In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump asserted that the pardons issued by former President Joe Biden, especially those meant for what he referred to as the “Unselect Committee of Political Thugs,” are “void, vacant, and of no further force or effect.”
Trump contended that these pardons were executed using an autopen and that Biden was uninformed about the process or the documents involved. He also insinuated that those responsible for signing the pardons might have committed a crime.
Trump set to attend Kennedy Center board meeting
Trump is scheduled to participate in a board meeting for the John F. Kennedy Performing Arts Center at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time, as per information from the White House press office.
Trump, who was appointed chair of the Kennedy Center’s board in February, drew attention when he dismissed the institution’s leadership and restructured the board by appointing his allies.
This restructuring has led some artists to withdraw from planned performances at the center.
DOGE stimulus check update: Creator clarifies potential payouts
The individual behind the proposal for $5,000 “DOGE dividend” stimulus checks for Americans has detailed the potential payouts taxpayers might receive if the plan is implemented today.
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is dedicated to reducing operational costs and has streamlined several federal agencies to contract government size.
The initiative to distribute $5,000 checks to U.S. taxpayers using government savings has garnered backing from President Donald Trump and his billionaire ally, Elon Musk.
These plans aim to return a fraction of the saved funds to taxpayers; however, no final decisions have been made yet.
Read the complete article by Billal Rahman on Newsweek.
A Venezuelan migrant deported to Guantanamo reflects on his experience
Juan Arraez/AP Photo
Jhoan Bastidas, 25, spent 16 days at the U.S. naval base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, following his deportation amidst Trump’s immigration policies. Bastidas fled Venezuela in 2018 amid the country’s escalating crisis and was detained in a cramped room, with limited food and interaction.
He was among around 350 Venezuelan migrants sent to Guantanamo as part of a broader deportation initiative, accused of links to the Tren de Aragua gang—a claim the U.S. government has provided scant evidence for, as per the Associated Press.
Upon his arrival in the U.S. in late 2023, Bastidas was detained in Texas before being flown to Guantanamo, where he endured isolation in severe conditions. Shackled at wrists and ankles, he spent his days confined in a windowless cell, only glimpsing daylight during brief outdoor sessions. In the face of adversity, Bastidas turned to prayer, connecting with fellow detainees through shared Scripture and prayer.
On February 20, he was returned to Venezuela to reunite with his family in Maracaibo, a city reeling from years of economic hardship. Though conditions at home remain challenging, Bastidas—wrongfully linked to gang affiliations due to his tattoos—is resolute about rebuilding his life. Despite turmoil, he considers his experience a test of faith, stating, “It wasn’t meant for me to be [in the U.S.], and he kept me there for some reason.”
The American Civil Liberties Union has initiated a lawsuit against the U.S. government, contesting the transfer of migrants to Guantanamo, citing claims of maltreatment and attempted suicides among detainees.
Did Donald Trump disregard court orders on deportations? Current insights
Presidencia El Salvador via Getty Images
The Trump administration has dismissed allegations of violating a federal judge’s order that temporarily halted deportations mandated under an 18th-century wartime declaration aimed at Venezuelan gang members.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Sunday that 250 alleged members of the Tren de Aragua (TdA) gang were reportedly deported to El Salvador notwithstanding the federal judge’s directive to momentarily cease removals and turn away any deportation flights.
Newsweek has reached out to the State Department for additional insights via email outside of regular business hours.
Trump has pledged to execute mass deportations of individuals residing in the U.S. illegally. His tenure began with notable immigration operations, a halt to asylum processing for undocumented migrants, and executive orders to enhance the authority of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for apprehending and detaining those without legal status in the country.
Read the full account by Billal Rahman on Newsweek.
Mark Carney visits Paris and London amid tensions with the U.S.
Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images
Canada’s newly appointed Prime Minister Mark Carney commenced his first official overseas trip on Monday, arriving in Paris for a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron. The purpose is to strengthen ties with European allies as U.S. President Donald Trump continues to challenge Canada’s sovereignty and economic stability.
Carney, who assumed office on March 14, will proceed to London to confer with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and King Charles III. His destination choices reflect Canada’s historical affiliations with France and the U.K. As he mentioned during his swearing-in, Canada marks its distinction from the United States grounded in its multicultural identity, which embraces French, English, and Indigenous heritage.
This trip occurs against the backdrop of escalating tensions with Trump, who has imposed tariffs on Canadian goods and issued threats of further economic pressure. Carney has expressed his willingness to engage in dialogue with Trump, provided that Canada’s sovereignty is respected. Furthermore, he plans to traverse Canada’s Arctic region to reinforce its security and territorial integrity there.
In addition, Carney has interacted with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, inviting him to this summer’s G7 summit. With elections on the horizon expected by May, Carney and the Liberal Party aim to galvanize momentum amid ongoing trade disputes with the U.S.
Trump speaks with Putin on Tuesday as discussions about Ukraine continue
Trump is set to converse with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday as part of ongoing attempts to negotiate an end to the conflict in Ukraine. Trump made this announcement while aboard Air Force One, confirming that discussions will encompass significant aspects like territorial disputes and power infrastructure. The Kremlin recognized the planned conversation but did not divulge specific details.
European allies are expressing caution regarding Trump’s approach to the situation, particularly following recent critiques of Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, visited Moscow last week to continue the dialogue pushing towards peace.
Russia still governs portions of Ukraine annexed in 2022, without achieving full administrative control over these territories. The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, which lies within a contested area, remains a vital concern on the international stage.
Trump reiterated his resolve to implement previously announced tariff measures set for April 2, dismissing worries about their economic repercussions and underlining the importance of reclaiming U.S. financial assets.
Elon Musk reacts to Shakespeare decolonization initiatives
Samuel Corum/Getty Images
Elon Musk has voiced criticisms against efforts to decolonize the birthplace of William Shakespeare in England, aimed at fostering inclusiveness.
The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust has stated it is contemplating changes to create “a more inclusive museum experience,” although these initiatives have met resistance from conservative critics on social media.
Newsweek reached out to the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust for further information regarding the policy via email.
In his role at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Musk has implemented numerous cuts to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies within the federal framework and has expressed opposition to similar decolonization initiatives. His latest comments also signify another venture into British political matters, following his engagement with the right-leaning Reform UK party.
Reports indicate that the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust plans to examine “the ongoing impact of empire” on its collections, recognize how colonialism has shaped global historical narratives, and confront the role that Shakespeare’s works have played in reinforcing these perspectives.
Read the full narrative by Theo Burman on Newsweek.
