Iran-backed Houthis enter the monthlong war and could further threaten global shipping

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — On Saturday, Iranian-backed Houthi rebels entered the ongoing war in the Middle East, claiming responsibility for two missile launches aimed at Israel. This escalation coincided with the arrival of approximately 2,500 U.S. Marines in the region. Furthermore, Pakistan's government announced that regional powers would convene on Sunday to discuss potential resolutions to the ongoing conflict.

The war has already disrupted global supplies of oil and natural gas, led to fertilizer shortages, and affected air travel. The situation has intensified concerns regarding Iran's influence over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, an essential waterway for global trade, resulting in market volatility. The United States and Israel continue their military operations against Iran, which has retaliated by targeting Israel and Gulf Arab states. The conflict has resulted in over 3,000 reported fatalities.

The Houthis’ involvement in the conflict raises the stakes for global shipping, particularly if they renew their attacks on vessels transiting the Bab el-Mandeb Strait off the Red Sea, which is critical for around 12% of the world’s trade. On a more hopeful note, Iran agreed to facilitate humanitarian and agricultural shipments through the strait following a request from the United Nations. U.S. President Donald Trump issued an ultimatum to Iran to reopen the strait by April 6.

Witnesses reported heavy strikes in Tehran late Saturday, following Israel's military announcement that it would continue to target Iranian naval weapons production facilities, aiming to compromise essential weapons production sites in a matter of days. The U.S. reportedly struck over 11,000 Iranian targets in the continuing conflict.

Trump's conflicting messages sow confusion over the Iran war

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump declared that the U.S. is "winning" the war with Iran, despite the ongoing deployment of thousands of additional American troops to the Middle East. His mixed messages have created confusion, as he has criticized other nations for not assisting the U.S. while simultaneously claiming he does not require their help.

Trump has repeatedly delayed deadlines for Iran's reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. He has issued stark warnings against Iran, threatening to "obliterate" their energy infrastructure if the strait remains closed, yet contends that the U.S. is "not affected" by the situation. In statements this month, Trump suggested that a former president—implying a Democratic one—wished to have taken similar actions against Iran, a claim swiftly denied by representatives of every living former president.

As the conflict enters its second month, Trump’s tendency for embellishments and exaggerations faces scrutiny amid the dire conditions of warfare.

How the Homeland Security deal unraveled and split Republican leaders in Congress

WASHINGTON (AP) — On Friday, the Senate appeared to have achieved a breakthrough funding deal for the Department of Homeland Security to avoid the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. However, the agreement collapsed dramatically after House Speaker Mike Johnson described the Senate plan as a "joke" and asserted his duty to safeguard both the House and the American people.

Zelenskyy visits Gulf Arab states to talk drone defense and seek strategic ties

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made unannounced trips to the United Arab Emirates and Qatar on Saturday amid Ukraine's efforts to utilize its drone technology to assist Gulf nations in countering Iran's militant actions during the ongoing war in the Middle East. Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine has already signed 10-year security agreements with Saudi Arabia and Qatar, seeking to finalize a similar arrangement with the UAE shortly.

In exchange for its support, Ukraine is asking for high-end air-defense missiles from these countries to enhance its capabilities against Russian aggression. During a recent visit to Saudi Arabia, Zelenskyy expressed Ukraine's interest in contributing to security in the Strait of Hormuz. Zelenskyy’s meetings in the Gulf focused on discussing regional security amid the conflict.

Pope visits Monaco to urge its people to reject idolatry of power and wealth fueling wars

MONACO (AP) — Pope Leo XIV visited Monaco on Saturday with a message urging citizens to use their wealth responsibly and reject the "idolatry of power and money" that contributes to global conflicts. His visit marked the first papal trip to Monaco since Pope Paul III in 1538.

Upon his arrival, Pope Leo was greeted by Prince Albert and Princess Charlene. He addressed residents from the palace balcony, encouraging them to utilize their influence and resources for good in the world.

Bills to pay FAA and TSA workers during shutdowns get introduced but keep stalling in Congress

Numerous proposals have been presented in Congress aimed at guaranteeing pay for federal employees responsible for air traffic control and passenger screening during government shutdowns. Despite bipartisan support and repeated introductions since 2019, the bills have faced continuous stagnation, as lawmakers often revert to normal appropriations post-crisis, resulting in public memory overshadowing the issue.

CPAC activists embrace Paxton as MAGA's choice for Senate over Cornyn

GRAPEVINE, Texas (AP) — Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton received enthusiastic support at the Conservative Political Action Conference, emerging as a prominent figure among right-wing activists as the preferred candidate for the U.S. Senate nomination over incumbent John Cornyn. His reinstated political career after impeachment was fueled by a dedicated grassroots base that remains steadfast despite his controversial past.

Paxton emphasized his resilience in his Friday night speech, expressing gratitude for the support he received from Texan constituents.

'No Kings' rallies draw crowds across US, in Europe. Springsteen headlines Minnesota demonstration

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — A series of 'No Kings' rallies took place nationwide on Saturday, protesting against the war in Iran and Donald Trump's policies. The largest event was held in St. Paul, where thousands gathered, highlighted by a performance from Bruce Springsteen, who emphasized the state’s efforts against U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement actions.

Springsteen's performance and speeches resonated with the theme of resistance, with protesters voicing their commitment to protecting their communities against governmental overreach.

UFC brings cage-match bout to the White House, home of a president who favors cage-match politics

WASHINGTON (AP) — Mixed martial arts will soon be showcased at the White House as part of a celebration for President Donald Trump's 80th birthday. The event, featuring a cage-match setup on the White House lawn, aligns with Trump’s combative political persona and admiration for such sports.

Trump’s past attendance at a UFC event makes this upcoming celebration a reflection of his endorsement of a fighting culture in politics.

Meet the Artemis crew in NASA's first astronaut mission to the moon in more than a half-century

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — As NASA prepares for its next lunar mission under the Artemis program, four diverse astronauts are set to take on this historic journey, marking a significant deviation from the Apollo era's astronaut profiles. This mission will not see them land on the moon, but it aims to explore deeper into space than any Apollo mission, signaling a new advancement in space exploration.