The United States and Iran exchanged military strikes near the Strait of Hormuz this week as President Trump announced, then abandoned, a 20 percent toll on shipping through the waterway. The confrontation rattled energy markets, drew responses from allied governments, and reopened debate in Washington over the scope of American involvement.

Justices Amy Coney Barrett and Elena Kagan told a House panel that threats against the Supreme Court have risen sharply, turning a routine budget appearance into a discussion of the justices' own safety.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup opened with a ceremony in Mexico featuring Shakira, and the expanded tournament has now reached its semifinals, pairing France with Spain and England with Argentina. FIFA is weighing whether future editions could grow larger still, and organizers have arranged an entertainment program that includes a closing ceremony and a halftime show.

Saudi-led coalition warplanes struck targets across Houthi-controlled Yemen, including Sanaa International Airport, prompting the group to warn of retaliation. Axios reported that President Donald Trump gave Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman his backing for the operation.

British counterterrorism police are leading an investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe, which officers have described as a targeted attack.