RFK Confirmed as Health and Human Services Secretary in Narrow Senate Vote

The Senate confirmed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Health and Human Services Secretary in a 52-48 vote, marking a victory for President Donald Trump. Republican Sen. Mitch McConnell joined Democrats in opposing the nomination, citing concerns over Kennedy’s history of vaccine skepticism. His confirmation is seen as part of Trump’s broader effort to reshape the federal government, with White House officials working to secure Republican votes through personal outreach and assurances from nominees.

Source: CNN

DOGE To Audit IRS

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, plans to audit the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) following a poll on X where over 90% of respondents supported the idea. DOGE officials have reportedly entered the IRS building to commence the audit, which aligns with their broader mission to enhance government efficiency and transparency. This move has sparked both support and concerns regarding privacy and potential political bias. President Trump has authorized DOGE to proceed with the audit, which is part of a larger strategy to overhaul federal spending and operations. However, there are questions about the legality and oversight of DOGE's actions, with some critics highlighting potential violations of data privacy laws.

Sources: Newsweek, X

U.S. to Boost Military Sales to India

The United States plans to increase military sales to India starting in 2025 and will eventually supply the country with F-35 stealth fighter jets, President Donald Trump announced. While no specific timeline was provided, foreign military sales, particularly for advanced aircraft like the F-35, typically take years to materialize. The announcement came after a meeting between Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during which the two leaders also agreed on increased U.S. oil and gas exports to India and cooperation on counterterrorism efforts. However, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri clarified that India has not yet initiated the formal process for acquiring the F-35s. India has already committed to over $20 billion in U.S. defense purchases since 2008 and is expected to spend more than $200 billion on military modernization over the next decade. The move comes as India seeks to diversify its defense partnerships, historically dominated by Russia, which has also proposed joint production of its Sukhoi Su-57 stealth fighter for the Indian Air Force.

Notes: The U.S. has been increasing defense cooperation with India, which is seen as a key partner in countering China’s military influence in the Indo-Pacific.

Source: Reuters

Hamas Confirm It’s Ready to Continue Releasing Hostages

Hamas announced that it is prepared to resume releasing Israeli hostages this weekend under the terms of the Gaza cease-fire agreement, provided Israel adheres to its commitments. The statement follows a tense week in which Hamas temporarily suspended hostage releases, citing Israeli violations of the truce. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that military operations would resume if hostages were not freed by noon on Saturday. Mediators from Egypt and Qatar are working to resolve disputes, including Hamas's claims that Israel has not allowed sufficient humanitarian aid into Gaza. Despite continued diplomatic efforts, uncertainty remains over the agreement’s future, as Israel has not yet agreed to discuss the second phase of the deal, which would involve a long-term truce and Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.

Source: The New York Times

India and France to Collaborate on Small Modular Nuclear Reactors

India and France have agreed to jointly develop small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced modular reactors for civilian use, marking a shift in India’s nuclear energy policy. The partnership intends to enhance energy security and support a transition to a low-carbon economy. SMRs, which require less land and infrastructure than traditional reactors, are still in the early stages of development. India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri emphasized that the cooperation would involve co-designing, co-developing, and co-producing these reactors. The move comes as India prepares to amend its strict nuclear liability laws, which have previously hindered foreign investment in nuclear projects. Modi is also expected to discuss potential nuclear investments with U.S. firms during his visit to Washington.

Source: BBC

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• TikTok is back on the Apple Store

• State Departments says it’s abandoning plans to purchase $400 million worth of armored vehicles from Tesla

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