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Trump did what today?

4/18/2026

Iran says it has closed the Strait of Hormuz again, as ceasefire nears its end

  • Iran announced it has regained control of the Strait of Hormuz and will not reopen it until the U.S. lifts its blockade.
  • President Trump warned that U.S. attacks on Iran could resume if no deal is reached before the ceasefire ends.
  • Iran's latest announcement has raised concerns about oil shipments, as this strait is crucial for global oil transportation.
  • The U.K. reported an attack on a tanker near the strait soon after Iran declared control.
  • The situation continues to evolve amid ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran.

What's it like to negotiate with Iran? We asked people who have done it

  • President Trump remains hopeful for a deal with Iran regarding its nuclear program despite stalled talks.
  • Experts suggest that negotiations with Iran require patience and can take years to be successful.
  • Differences in negotiation styles contribute to the mistrust between U.S. and Iranian leaders.
  • The history of conflict and mistrust complicates current negotiations, according to past U.S. negotiators.
  • The complexities of negotiations are highlighted by the high stakes involved and the lack of trust.

Born in south Lebanon, displaced to Beirut, two grandmothers reflect on Israeli invasions

  • Two grandmothers, displaced by Israeli invasions, share their experiences and the impacts of conflict on their lives.
  • Both women continue to support Hezbollah, viewing it as a protector against foreign occupation.
  • The recent ceasefire has allowed displaced people to return home, despite warnings of ongoing dangers.
  • Israel is unlikely to withdraw from certain territories, which worries many Lebanese citizens.
  • The grandmothers express a deep connection to their homeland, reflecting the lasting scars of war.

Deaths of migrants in ICE custody hit record high under Trump

  • Twenty-nine immigrants have died in ICE custody this fiscal year, setting a new record for deaths.
  • The most recent death was ruled a presumed suicide, adding to concerns regarding treatment in detention.
  • Critics highlight the alarming rise in deaths coinciding with an increase in detention rates during the Trump administration.
  • ICE claims it provides adequate medical care to detainees, despite the rising fatalities.
  • Calls for accountability and better treatment of immigrants in custody have risen amid ongoing scrutiny.

Not just Trump: Redistricting race will hinge on what these state leaders did

  • The race to redraw congressional districts has gained attention as state leaders work to influence elections.
  • Republican states have pushed for changes that favor their party, while Democrats resist redistricting efforts.
  • Key lawmakers play significant roles in shaping this process, impacting future congressional seats.
  • The ongoing debate reflects deeper political strategies and tensions in the lead-up to elections.
  • As both parties maneuver, the potential for legal challenges complicates the redistricting landscape.

Abandoned allies: Syria's Kurds face an uncertain future

  • Syria's Kurds feel betrayed as U.S. support dwindles while Turkish-backed forces take over their territories.
  • The Kurdish region once promised autonomy and rights but now faces increasing threats and uncertainty.
  • The lack of international support has left Kurdish forces vulnerable amidst ongoing conflict.
  • Minority groups in the region fear for their safety as political chaos continues.
  • Kurdish unity has emerged but faces challenges from both external and internal pressures.

Why scientists are nervous about fungi

  • Drug-resistant fungi are becoming a growing concern in medical science as fungi can develop resistance similar to bacteria.
  • This issue is especially challenging in lower-income countries with limited access to healthcare.
  • Agricultural use of fungicides contributes to this problem, as resistant spores can spread easily.
  • Fungi infections are severe, particularly in those with weakened immune systems, leading to higher mortality rates.
  • There is urgency for research and preventive measures to address and combat drug-resistant fungi.

After the Live Nation monopoly verdict, artists say it's time for real change

  • A recent federal ruling found Live Nation engaged in anticompetitive practices, leading to hopes for industry reform.
  • Artists welcome the judgment but remain cautious about immediate changes in the live music sector.
  • Rising operational costs make it difficult for bands to profit, despite increased ticket prices.
  • Independent venues and smaller businesses hope for a revitalization in the concert ecosystem.
  • The outcome may impact how musicians and venues operate, pushing for competition and fairer practices.

Logjam of U.S. immigration applications puts millions at greater risk of deportation

  • A backlog of nearly 12 million immigration applications has left many vulnerable to deportation.
  • Slower processing times at USCIS have contributed to heightened anxiety among applicants.
  • Immigrants are often uncertain about their application statuses, increasing their risk of deportation.
  • Critics argue these delays are a tactic of the Trump administration to limit legal migration.
  • Calls for better management and processing of immigration applications grow amid these challenges.

Tired of waiting for your EV to charge up? One Chinese company has a novel solution

  • NIO Power offers a battery swapping service that can replace an electric car's battery in minutes.
  • This method aims to address long charging times that deter potential EV buyers.
  • With nearly 4,000 swap stations, NIO is working to make battery swapping a mainstream option.
  • The service is particularly advantageous for urban drivers without home charging access.
  • NIO's approach may change the landscape of electric vehicle use and convenience.

Caracas' iconic macaws threatened by vanishing palm trees

  • Blue and gold macaws in Caracas are threatened as authorities cut down palm trees they rely on for nesting.
  • These birds have become a symbol of the city, creating unique relationships with locals who feed them.
  • Biologists warn that the loss of nesting sites could lead to a decline in macaw population in the future.
  • The importance of preserving these trees highlights the tension between urban beautification efforts and wildlife.
  • Efforts to count and protect the macaw population face challenges due to funding and research limitations.

She invited her friends to come together to make her casket

  • MaddyChristine Hope Brokopp invited friends to help create her own casket due to a terminal cancer diagnosis.
  • The weekend focused on weaving a casket together, providing a sense of community and support.
  • Brokopp emphasized the importance of celebrating life and friendship rather than solely focusing on death.
  • The experience revealed a mix of emotions, balancing craftwork with the reality of her illness.
  • Participants cherished the opportunity to connect and reflect on their friendship during this time.

Sitting in a jail cell, alone and hopeless, a man's life is suddenly changed

  • A man's life turned around after a fellow inmate offered prayers while he contemplated suicide in jail.
  • The unexpected support brought him hope, leading to a turn for the better in his life post-release.
  • This pivotal moment highlights how small acts of kindness can have significant impacts on others.
  • He now enjoys a fruitful life with a job and a loving relationship, crediting his change to that moment.
  • The story illustrates the potential for redemption and the power of connection in difficult times.

Zohran Mamdani says Iran war speaks to a 'broken kind of politics'

  • New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani emphasizes the need for change in politics while discussing the Iran war.
  • He highlights accomplishments in his first 100 days, including significant funding for child care.
  • Mamdani expresses deep opposition to the Iran war, framing it as a misallocation of resources.
  • He acknowledges the dehumanizing effects of war on all communities and the importance of addressing these issues.
  • His approach focuses on a combination of big reforms while attending to everyday municipal needs.

Judge halts local TV giant Nexstar's takeover of rival Tegna until trial

  • A federal judge has blocked Nexstar from completing its acquisition of Tegna until an antitrust trial concludes.
  • The ruling came in response to concerns about Nexstar's dominance in local TV markets and potential job losses.
  • Nexstar plans to appeal the decision, asserting that it provides valuable services to local viewers.
  • The case reflects broader concerns about competition and corporate control in the media landscape.
  • The outcome could significantly impact media operations and employment across multiple regions.

Minnesota has charged an ICE officer with assault for alleged actions during immigration surge

  • An ICE officer was charged with second-degree assault following an incident involving a gun aimed at civilians.
  • The charges represent a significant legal response to actions taken during a crackdown on immigration in Minnesota.
  • Concerns over officer behavior during immigration enforcement have been raised amid ongoing investigations.
  • Activists and officials continue to call for accountability within ICE operations amid criticism.
  • The legal developments reflect broader tensions over immigration policies and their effects on communities.