U.S. Holds Secret Talks with Hamas to Secure Hostage Release

The United States has engaged in secret negotiations with Hamas, breaking a longstanding policy against direct talks with the group, which the U.S. has designated as a terrorist organization since 1997. Adam Boehler, the U.S. hostage affairs envoy, held discussions in Doha with Hamas officials to secure the release of American hostages still held in Gaza. Former President Donald Trump, who returned to office in January, issued a strong warning on social media, demanding Hamas release all hostages immediately or face severe consequences. Trump's statement signaled continued U.S. support for Israel's military efforts, stating that he was providing Israel with "everything it needs to finish the job." The talks, while focused on hostages, may also touch on a broader deal for a long-term ceasefire. Israel, which refuses to engage directly with Hamas, has expressed its stance on these discussions but has not elaborated publicly.

Sources: Reuters 

U.S. Supreme Court Orders Trump Administration to Release $2 Billion in Foreign Aid Payments

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled against the Trump administration’s request to withhold nearly $2 billion in payments owed to foreign aid organizations for work already completed. In a narrow 5-4 decision, the court upheld a lower court's ruling that required the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the State Department to fulfill their financial obligations. The Trump administration, which has significantly cut aid programs and dismissed most USAID staff, argued that processing the payments in a short timeframe was unfeasible. Conservative justices dissented, questioning whether a single district court judge had the authority to mandate such payments. The legal battle stems from Trump's 90-day freeze on foreign aid, which aid groups challenged in court. The dispute continues, with further hearings scheduled.

Sources: BBC

South Korean Fighter Jet Accidentally Drops Bombs on Civilian Area, Injuring Seven

A South Korean KF-16 fighter jet accidentally released eight MK-82 bombs outside a designated firing range during a joint military training exercise, injuring seven people and damaging multiple buildings. The incident occurred on Thursday in Pocheon, a city near the North Korean border. The South Korean air force confirmed the mishap and announced plans to investigate the cause while assessing the full extent of civilian damage. The military has apologized and pledged compensation for those affected. According to reports, five civilians and two soldiers were injured, with two individuals in serious but non-life-threatening condition.

Sources: Associated Press

Trump Plans Executive Order to Dismantle Education Department

President Donald Trump is expected to issue an executive order as early as Thursday to begin dismantling the U.S. Department of Education, according to sources familiar with the plan. A draft of the order, reviewed by The Wall Street Journal, instructs Education Secretary Linda McMahon to take steps to close the department “to the maximum extent permitted by law.” The move aligns with long-standing conservative efforts to shift education control to states, citing federal oversight as ineffective and bureaucratic. However, fully abolishing the department would require congressional approval, as many of its core functions, such as funding for students with disabilities and student loans, are legally mandated. While the Trump administration has already weakened the department by cutting staff and reducing enforcement of civil rights policies, the plan faces significant political and legal hurdles, with strong opposition from Democrats and public skepticism about eliminating the agency altogether.

Sources: The Wall Street Journal

Apple Unveils New MacBook Air, Cuts Price

Apple has announced updated MacBook Air models featuring a faster M4 chip, improved videoconferencing capabilities, and a new sky blue color option. Despite new tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump on Chinese imports, Apple has cut the MacBook Air’s price by $100, with the 13-inch model starting at $999 and the 15-inch version at $1,099. The new laptops, which now support three external monitors, will be available starting March 12. Apple also introduced a high-end Mac Studio desktop with AI processing capabilities, starting at $1,999. Analysts had expected PC makers, including Apple, to raise prices in response to the tariffs, but Apple has so far maintained or reduced pricing on its latest devices. The company’s supply chain diversification efforts, including manufacturing in Vietnam and Malaysia, could help mitigate the impact of Chinese import duties. However, potential Chinese retaliation remains a concern for Apple, whose CEO Tim Cook recently met with Trump to discuss the issue.

Sources: CNBC