Thursday, 2 April 2026

Trump warned Iran that military strikes will continue, claiming the war is 'nearing completion' and offering a two-to-three week timeline for resolution. He stated 'more to follow' after a U.S. strike destroyed Iran's largest suspension bridge, killing eight people reported.

President Trump fired Attorney General Pam Bondi, citing displeasure with her handling of the Epstein files release and her failure to prosecute his political enemies. Todd Blanche, her deputy and Trump's former defense lawyer, was appointed as acting attorney general.

Oil prices surged, with Brent crude rising 8% and U.S. crude hitting $110 per barrel after Trump's warning to Iran. Stock markets declined following his address, which offered little detail on ending the conflict.

Trump attended oral arguments at the Supreme Court in a birthright citizenship case, becoming the first sitting president to attend such arguments. Critics characterized his presence as intimidating; commentators noted this was a significant and controversial move.

Civil rights groups filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, challenging an executive order that restricts who can receive mail-in ballots, arguing it is unconstitutional.

Republican senators Mitch McConnell and Thom Tillis broke with Trump on NATO withdrawal, warning that leaving the alliance would aid rivals, threaten U.S. security, and require Senate approval under a 2024 law.

Trump threatened 100% tariffs on pharmaceutical companies that do not strike deals to lower U.S. drug prices. The tariff would target branded drugs and active ingredients while exempting generics for at least one year.

Trump has expressed displeasure with Tulsi Gabbard, his intelligence chief, over her Iran war testimony. Reports indicate he polled advisers about replacing her in the position.

France's President Macron criticized Trump for his casual handling of the Iran war and for mocking Macron's marriage during a private lunch in Washington. Macron called Trump's approach 'not up to standard' and urged seriousness on NATO and Iran.

Costa Rica agreed to accept up to 25 deportees per week expelled by the U.S. as part of Trump's immigration crackdown, marking a third-country deportation deal.