Bates hopes 'real baddies' are named as Post Office inquiry draws to close

Texas Republicans have proposed a redistricting plan aimed at gaining five additional seats in the U.S. House for the 2026 midterm elections, shifting districts in Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio to favor their party. The plan, which may face legal challenges for potentially violating the Voting Rights Act, seeks to solidify Republican control by creating safe districts and altering the demographics of competitive areas. Want More Context? 🔎

Prime Minister Mark Carney indicated that negotiations for a new economic and security agreement with the U.S. may not conclude by the August 1 deadline due to unresolved issues, as President Trump threatens to impose significant tariffs on Canadian goods. Political analysts suggest that Canada should prioritize securing a favorable deal over speed, as public opinion supports taking the necessary time for negotiations. Want More Context? 🔎

A technical fault at the Nats air traffic control center caused major disruptions at Heathrow Airport, affecting over 577,000 passengers and leading to more than 120 flight cancellations on July 30, 2025. The incident, which lasted 20 minutes but had lasting consequences, has prompted criticism from airlines and calls for accountability from Nats' leadership. Want More Context? 🔎

Israeli attacks in Gaza have killed at least 71 Palestinians seeking humanitarian aid, exacerbating a severe hunger crisis, with over 1,000 fatalities near aid sites since late May. Amid ongoing bombardments, the Gaza Health Ministry reports rising malnutrition-related deaths, particularly among children and the elderly, while aid remains critically insufficient, with only 269 trucks entering recently against a need for 500-600 daily. Want More Context? 🔎

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order ending the global de minimis tariff exemption for low-cost goods, effective August 29, expanding previous restrictions that targeted China and Hong Kong. The White House cited concerns over opioid trafficking and duty evasion as reasons for the move, which aligns with Congress's plans to eliminate the exemption by 2027. Want More Context? 🔎

The U.S. imposed sanctions on a shipping empire controlled by Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani, son of a senior Iranian political advisor, targeting over 115 entities and vessels involved in transporting Iranian and Russian oil. These measures aim to disrupt Iran's funding for its nuclear program and other destabilizing activities, emphasizing the U.S. commitment to applying maximum pressure on Tehran. Want More Context? 🔎