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June 15, 2026
Trump sought to break Iran's regime. He settled for reopening Hormuz.
(Washington Post) President Donald Trump declared an end to his campaign against Iran’s leaders with an exhortation on Sunday: “Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow!” With the Iranian regime still in place, he was celebrating a resumption of the way the world was on Feb. 27, the day before the United States and Israel attacked Iran. A return to a version of the status quo was a far cry from the original aims of a war effort that kicked off with a vow to come to the aid of the Iranian protesters who had taken to their nation’s streets to denounce their regime.
Go to discussionGraham 'concerned' that Iran views deal with U.S. differently than Trump administration
(The Hill) Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham (S.C.) said Sunday that he is “concerned” that the U.S. and Iranian governments have “different” views of the deal that the two sides have agreed to. “I am pleased to hear the memorandum of understanding with Iran to allow the Strait of Hormuz to open has been agreed to. I will be watching closely the ensuing negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear program and other matters,” Graham, an Iran hawk, wrote on social platform X. “I am somewhat concerned that Iran’s view of the agreement seems different than what the American negotiating team is claiming,” the South Carolina Republican added.
Go to discussionDefense minister says Israel won't withdraw from land seized in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza
(AP) Israel’s defense minister said Monday that Israel won’t withdraw from land seized in Lebanon, potentially challenging an interim deal that Iran and the United States reached hours earlier that includes opening the Strait of Hormuz and further extending a shaky ceasefire. Details of the deal were not immediately released and Iran signaled implementation would not start until the signing, which key mediator Pakistan said would take place Friday in Switzerland.
Go to discussionJimmy Kimmel Wishes Donald Trump Happy Birthday With Jeffrey Epstein-Inspired Birthday Card
(Variety) Jimmy Kimmel wished President Donald Trump a happy birthday over Instagram on Sunday, posting a birthday card that resembled a note Trump allegedly addressed to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein when he turned 50. "Happy 80th Donald!" The card reads. "A pal is a wonderful thing. Happy Birthday and may every day be another wonderful secret."
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UFC Fighter Josh Hokit Insults Michelle Obama During Victory Speech at White House
(Parade) UFC fighter Josh Hokit defeated Derrick Lewis for the heavyweight title at the White House's UFC Freedom 250 event on June 14, but the internet is calling the shocking tirade that followed "disgraceful." At the end of his victory speech, Hokit grabbed the mic from Joe Rogan and shouted "Last thing: Michelle Obamais a man! Am I right America?" The rest of the speech was equally inciting.
Go to discussionFormer Senate leader Mitch McConnell is in the hospital, but little information is known
(AP News) Republican Sen. Mitch McConnell was admitted to a hospital Sunday, his spokesperson said, but there was no immediate information about why he was there or his prognosis. McConnell, 84, was the longest serving Senate leader in history before stepping aside from that role while finishing his final term, which ends in January. “Senator McConnell was admitted to the hospital this morning. He is receiving excellent care,” spokesperson David Popp said in a statement without elaboration.
Go to discussionLincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool turns green after surface painted
(USA Today) Algae is pictured in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool following the completion of recent renovations on June 14, 2026 in Washington, DC. The reflecting pool construction project started in April and work was completed last week as part of President Donald Trump's plan ahead of the nation's 250th anniversary.
Go to discussionOil and gas supplies could take months to return to normal after Iran deal, energy experts say
(AP) High oil and gasoline prices and energy supply problems won’t be solved overnight, despite an agreement to end the Iran war and open the Strait of Hormuz announced Sunday. It will likely take months before energy companies can resume operations to the point of meeting the world’s demand, according to energy experts. The slow pace of the process of shipping and refining crude oil, and doubts about the security of traveling through the strait mean the effect won’t be seen immediately, they said.
Go to discussionLawyers reveal Jeanine Pirro's chilling impact on D.C. prosecutions: 'Speaks for itself'
(Raw Story) Lawyers in the District of Columbia revealed on Sunday how President Donald Trump's U.S. Attorney in the area has affected their ability to do their work, according to a new report. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro has billed herself as a tough-on-crime prosecutor in D.C., but her actions inside the grand jury room have caused headaches for other lawyers in the District, The Washington Post reported.
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