Veterans Affairs secretary defends mass layoffs in testy exchange with Congress

Frustration within the dialysis industry led medical resident Andre Obua to obsess over the potential harm of a medication prescribed to kidney patients, culminating in an attempted murder charge after he shot a doctor in Indiana. Despite his claims, experts found no evidence of harm, and prosecutors emphasized that legal grievances should not resort to violence; Obua is set to stand trial in August. Need More Context? 🔎

A longtime Minnesota lobbyist, Jonathan M. Bohn, was charged with making violent threats after sending alarming text messages, including references to shooting, following the tragic murders of state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband. Bohn, who claims his messages were born out of grief, has been placed on administrative leave and is scheduled for a court appearance on August 27. Need More Context? 🔎

A National Terrorism Advisory System bulletin warns of a heightened threat environment in the U.S. following military strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, indicating potential low-level cyber attacks and the risk of violent extremism as the Israel-Iran conflict escalates. U.S. law enforcement is deploying additional resources in response to possible retaliatory attacks against Jewish institutions amid rising tensions. Need More Context? 🔎

Gunfire erupted during the Tulsa Juneteenth Festival on Saturday night, resulting in one death and seven injuries, including a critical case. Police suspect at least two shooters and are investigating, while event organizers have canceled all programming and are cooperating with law enforcement. Need More Context? 🔎

Hawaii's Kilauea volcano is erupting spectacularly, with lava fountains reaching 1,000 feet as part of "Episode 26" at Halemaʻumaʻu crater, according to the USGS. The eruption began on June 20, 2025, and is confined to the crater area, prompting a code orange volcano watch due to potential hazards including volcanic gas emissions and ground instability. Need More Context? 🔎

Anthony ZurcherNorth America correspondentGetty ImagesDonald Trump has escalated US involvement in the Iran-Israel conflict by ordering airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, claiming a "spectacular success" while warning of further attacks if Iran does not abandon its nuclear ambitions. Critics, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres, warn of a potential "spiral of chaos" in the Middle East, as tensions rise and retaliation from Iran looms. Need More Context? 🔎