Activist's hunger strike continues; critic slams government silence

The United States House of Representatives has passed a bill that would make daylight saving time permanent across the country. If enacted, this would end the twice-yearly clock changes that occur in spring and fall. Daylight saving time is the period from spring to fall when clocks are set one hour ahead of standard time, giving more daylight in the evenings. The bill, called the Sunshine Protection Act, still needs approval from the Senate and the President to become law. Supporters argue that permanent daylight saving time could boost economic activity, reduce energy consumption, and improve health by eliminating the disruption of time changes. However, opponents raise concerns about darker mornings in winter, which could affect children going to school and increase traffic accidents. Similar proposals have been made in the past but failed to become law. The current system of changing clocks was established in the United States during World War I and later standardized with the Uniform Time Act of 1966. Some states have already opted to stay on standard time year-round, but federal law does not allow permanent daylight saving time without Congressional approval.

A US scientist who studied North Korea's nuclear tests has been detained in China for nearly two years on suspicion of espionage, according to his family. Chen Youlin, a researcher with expertise in nuclear issues, was taken into custody in 2022. His family says the charges are baseless and that he is being wrongfully held. The case comes amid heightened tensions between the US and China, with both nations accusing each other of unfair detentions. Several American citizens are currently held in China on similar charges. The US State Department has called for Chen's release, but Chinese authorities have not commented on the specific case. Human rights groups have expressed concern over the lack of transparency in the legal process. Chen's family continues to seek his freedom, stating that he was simply conducting academic research. The case highlights the ongoing challenges in US-China relations, particularly regarding the treatment of scholars and experts working in sensitive fields.

Iran has sent a letter to the United Nations accusing the United States of violating a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) intended to end conflict in the region. Iran’s UN representative, Amir Saeid Iravani, addressed the letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the president of the UN Security Council. In the letter, Iravani stated that the US has not only failed to honor its commitments but has actively and systematically undermined the foundations of the MoU. He described these actions as deliberate, calculated, and sustained, calling them a grave threat to international peace and security. The letter further accused the US of showing complete disregard for its international legal obligations. This development adds to ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States, which have been at odds over various issues including nuclear programs and regional influence. The MoU in question was aimed at reducing hostilities, but Iran now claims the US is not following through. The UN has not yet issued a public response to the letter. The accusation comes at a time when diplomatic efforts in the region remain fragile. Observers will be watching for any reaction from the US or the UN Security Council.

Supreme Court Justices Elena Kagan and Amy Coney Barrett appeared before lawmakers on Tuesday for a routine budget hearing. The meeting focused on funding for security at the Supreme Court, a topic that has gained attention following recent threats against judges. Justices Kagan and Barrett, who represent different ideological sides of the court, answered questions from members of Congress about the court's financial needs. The hearing is part of the regular process where the judicial branch requests funds from Congress to operate. The Supreme Court has seen increased security concerns in recent years, leading to discussions about additional resources. The justices did not discuss specific cases or legal matters, sticking to budget and security topics. The meeting was described as productive by both sides, though no final decisions were made. The budget request for the Supreme Court will be considered as part of the larger federal funding process. Similar hearings are expected for other parts of the judiciary.

Saudi Arabia has once again expressed strong support for the Palestinian government, pledging continued political, economic, and diplomatic assistance. The statement came during the second meeting of the Palestine Donors Group held in Brussels. Representing the Kingdom, Dr. Manal Radwan emphasized Saudi Arabia's commitment to working with international partners to achieve a lasting peace based on an independent Palestinian state along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. Radwan highlighted the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, noting that nine months after a ceasefire, Israeli military control persists over nearly 70% of the territory, while Hamas controls the rest. Restrictions on aid, reconstruction, and daily life remain severe. She also condemned the expansion of Israeli settlements, settler violence, and unilateral actions in the occupied West Bank, calling the situation both a humanitarian and political crisis requiring a political solution. Radwan welcomed international support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and urged sustained financial commitments to maintain its services. Additionally, she underscored the strategic partnership between Saudi Arabia and the United States, describing it as key to advancing a comprehensive political settlement. She noted that President Donald Trump's vision for ending the Middle East conflict through a comprehensive peace that ensures security, prosperity, and regional integration remains important for lasting stability.

Darline Graham, the younger sister of the late Senator Lindsey Graham, was sworn into office on Tuesday to complete her brother’s term. Lindsey Graham died three days earlier, leaving his Senate seat vacant. Under state law, a temporary replacement had to be appointed until a special election could be held. Darline Graham took the oath of office to serve until the term ends in January. She will not run for a full term, as a special election will be held in November to fill the seat for the next six years. The appointment was made by the governor, following Graham’s final wishes. Darline Graham is a small business owner with no prior political experience. She said she will focus on continuing her brother’s work on veterans’ issues and national security. Lindsey Graham served in the Senate for over 20 years and was known for his bipartisan deals. His sudden death shocked many in Washington. Darline Graham’s swearing-in was a quiet ceremony, with only family and a few colleagues present. She is expected to serve for about four months. The special election will be highly competitive, with both major parties fielding candidates. This process is common for filling Senate vacancies in many states. Darline Graham expressed humility and gratitude for the opportunity to serve her brother’s constituents.