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Trump did what today?

7/18/2026

The U.S.-Iran battle over the Strait of Hormuz raises risks for global waterways

  • The international waterway, Strait of Hormuz, is facing tensions due to U.S. and Iranian conflicts.
  • An operation to free trapped ships was halted after an attack on a cargo ship.
  • Iran is asserting control over the strait, which is crucial for oil trade.
  • Experts warn that recognizing Iran's control could set a bad example for other waterways.
  • The U.S. and Iran are debating maritime laws, affecting global trade routes.

The U.S. and Iran blow past red lines as they lurch back toward all-out war

  • After a ceasefire agreement, Iran launched a drone attack on a cargo ship.
  • The U.S. retaliated with airstrikes, escalating tensions once again.
  • Iran claims it has the right to control the Strait of Hormuz to manage shipping traffic.
  • Both nations pulled back for talks but resumed hostilities quickly.
  • Further conflicts may lead to greater instability in the Middle East and the global economy.

ICE shared Medicaid data it wasn't supposed to have with Palantir

  • ICE improperly shared Medicaid data with the analytics firm Palantir.
  • The information included details about immigrants without legal status.
  • Federal officials admitted to multiple breaches of privacy laws.
  • Democratic attorneys general are suing over these violations.
  • The incident raises serious concerns about the confidentiality of healthcare information.

Iceberg lettuce at Taco Bell linked to cyclospora outbreak in 5 states

  • CDC and FDA link cyclospora outbreak to Taco Bell's shredded iceberg lettuce.
  • The outbreak affected over 1,600 people in five states, with significant hospitalizations.
  • FDA traced the contamination to a single supplier from Mexico.
  • Taco Bell removed potentially contaminated lettuce from its supply chain.
  • Health officials urge consumers to practice food safety to prevent infections.

Dangerous wildfire smoke continues to blanket parts of the U.S.

  • Wildfire smoke from Canada and Minnesota is causing unhealthy air quality across the U.S.
  • Health experts warn that wildfire smoke can lead to serious health issues.
  • Millions in northeastern cities are affected by the poor air quality.
  • Scientists attribute increasing wildfires to climate change.
  • Precautions include monitoring air quality and using air purifiers indoors.

The 2000s called. They want their digital camera back

  • People, including young generations, are rediscovering digital cameras for their nostalgic appeal.
  • Companies like Camp Snap see a surge in sales of retro cameras.
  • Users appreciate the authentic feel and uniqueness of photos from these cameras.
  • There is a growing movement against smartphone dependency reflected in this trend.
  • The return to older technology is seen as a refreshing change in photography.

8 killed and more than 60 wounded in Ukrainian drone attack on Russian regions

  • Ukrainian drone strikes in Russia killed eight and injured over 60 others.
  • Targets included warehouses and military infrastructure in various Russian regions.
  • The strikes aimed to disrupt Russia's military operations against Ukraine.
  • Ukrainian President Zelenskyy claimed the attacks hit logistical facilities.
  • Russia's defense reported intercepting hundreds of drones during the assault.

Ex-wife says ICE agent who killed man in Maine had racist beliefs, violent tendencies

  • The ICE officer involved in a fatal shooting had a history of violence and racism, claims his ex-wife.
  • Ashley Brouillette described alarming incidents from their marriage.
  • Concerns arise about mental health issues before the officer's hiring.
  • Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the shooting in Maine.
  • This incident highlights issues around ICE officer conduct and oversight.

The new $1 Trump coin doesn't just buck norms. Experts say it also breaks laws

  • A new commemorative $1 coin features President Trump's image, raising legal concerns.
  • Regulations typically prohibit living individuals from appearing on U.S. currency.
  • Treasury officials argue this coin falls under a special 250th-anniversary law.
  • Critics claim this move politicizes U.S. currency and undermines tradition.
  • The coin’s approval process has faced backlash amid ongoing debates about federal funding.

D'oh! I can't believe I did that! Graceful ways to handle awkward moments

  • Experts offer tips on how to manage awkward situations in everyday life.
  • Acknowledging embarrassing moments can help alleviate tension.
  • Learning to accept compliments with a simple 'thank you' is important.
  • Making light of uncomfortable comments can diffuse situations.
  • Staying calm and redirecting conversations helps in family dynamics.

How to protect yourself from poor air quality

  • Wildfire smoke poses serious health risks, including respiratory issues.
  • Monitoring the Air Quality Index (AQI) can guide safety measures.
  • Avoiding outdoor activity is key when the AQI is above 150.
  • Indoor air quality can be improved using air purifiers and closed windows.
  • Staying hydrated and using moisturizers can combat smoke-related effects.

Is smoke in your home? Here's how to make an air purifier using a box fan

  • DIY air purifiers can help combat wildfire smoke indoors.
  • Using box fans and MERV-rated filters is an effective strategy.
  • Keeping windows sealed and the air circulating improves indoor air quality.
  • Staying informed about local air conditions is crucial during wildfire season.
  • Experts advise maintaining hydration and using saline rinses for health protection.

Wildfire smoke is like smoking 'half a pack a day.' Here's how to protect yourself

  • Breathing wildfire smoke is comparable to heavy cigarette smoking, health experts warn.
  • Exposure increases the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
  • The ongoing heat and wildfires have raised alarm over public health.
  • Avoiding smoke exposure entails staying indoors and using masks outdoors.
  • The long-term effects of wildfire smoke are still under investigation.

Trump's team says 'no children' died from USAID cuts. Consider these 3 cases

  • Children's deaths in Nigeria and Kenya are linked to cuts in USAID support.
  • Parents recount how reduced healthcare funding affected their children's health.
  • Nonprofits and health experts express concerns over the impact of aid cuts.
  • The U.S. government claims it is transitioning support to new agreements.
  • Families and health workers fear the consequences of interrupted services.

Republican campaigns see immigration as a winning issue for midterms

  • Republicans are heavily promoting immigration enforcement in campaign ads.
  • More than 300 immigration-related ads have been run by Republicans this year.
  • Ads focus on border security and criminal issues linked to immigration.
  • Democratic responses have been less aggressive amid election strategies.
  • Polling indicates significant public interest in immigration as a key issue.

What will the Pentagon begin screening 'war fighters' for? The quiz knows

  • The Pentagon's new screening initiative includes various topics.
  • The quiz touches on pop culture, politics, and conspiracy theories.
  • Participants will face whimsical questions while testing knowledge.
  • The engagement aims to gather information in a lighthearted format.
  • Expect humorous inquiries interspersed with serious military topics.

This unusual, Johnny Carson-backed fund has helped Nebraska arts survive — until now

  • Nebraska's Cultural Endowment is at risk following state budget cuts.
  • The fund supports arts through matching state donations and private giving.
  • Federal funding challenges pose threats to cultural programming.
  • Organizations attribute their survival to the endowment's support.
  • Advocates are rallying for continued public funding and community support.

Kalshi says it's not a sportsbook even as World Cup bets surge

  • Kalshi, a prediction market, claims it's not a sports gambling site.
  • The site has seen record betting volume during the World Cup.
  • Critics argue it operates similarly to sportsbooks without regulation.
  • Legal battles continue over how prediction markets should be taxed.
  • The difference in legal status affects revenue and access to bettors.

In primetime speech, Trump doesn't provide evidence for illegal voting

  • Trump made claims of election security vulnerabilities without evidence.
  • He discussed alleged foreign involvement in U.S. voting systems.
  • Critics point out the lack of new information during his address.
  • The speech reignites debates over election integrity and voter trust.
  • Political responses highlight the ongoing concerns regarding baseless claims.

Why Orthodox Jews are opposing the new daylight saving bill in Congress

  • The proposed Sunshine Protection Act faces opposition from Orthodox Jews.
  • Concerns arise over later sunrise affecting morning prayer times.
  • Orthodox groups worry about safety and scheduling issues for schools.
  • The bill must still pass through the Senate for final approval.
  • Some lawmakers share concerns about the practical implications of the change.