China has accused the United States of fueling panic over its rare earth export restrictions and criticized Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent for making “grossly distorted” remarks about a senior Chinese trade negotiator. Beijing dismissed the White House’s call to ease the curbs, calling them a matter of national interest.
Israel announced preparations to reopen Gaza’s Rafah crossing with Egypt to allow limited movement of Palestinians but gave no timeline. The move comes as Israel and Hamas trade accusations over breaches of the US-mediated ceasefire, raising doubts about its long-term stability.
In Mexico, survivors of devastating floods are sleeping on debris-covered streets while pleading for government assistance. Torrential rains have killed at least 70 people and displaced thousands. Rescue workers continue searching for missing residents as authorities struggle to deliver relief to affected areas.
Gold prices have soared above $4,300 per ounce, marking their strongest weekly performance in 17 years. Analysts attribute the rally to geopolitical tensions, a weaker dollar, and growing investor demand for safe-haven assets amid global economic uncertainty.
Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist of the iconic rock band KISS, has died at the age of 74. Reports say he had been on life support following a fall last month. Frehley was known for his signature guitar style and helped shape the band’s legendary sound.
Singer and actress Reneé Rapp criticized the Trump administration and ongoing ICE raids while performing in Portland, a city that has seen violent clashes between protesters and police. Rapp urged fans to “stand against cruelty and fear,” drawing cheers from the audience.
President Donald Trump has revived his $15 billion lawsuit against The New York Times after a federal judge in Florida ordered him to shorten the filing within 28 days. The case accuses the paper of defamation and seeks damages over its coverage of Trump’s business dealings.
The Department of Homeland Security has announced a new $1,000 immigration fee for migrants paroled into the United States. Officials say the measure aims to increase accountability, cover administrative costs, and prevent widespread fraud in the parole process.
A Massachusetts woman, Bethany Abigail Terrill, was arrested and charged after allegedly threatening to kill federal agents during an immigration arrest outside a courthouse. Prosecutors say bodycam footage captured her shouting, “Charlie Kirk died and we love it! We’re coming for you, gonna kill you!” She now faces federal charges.
Pakistan’s economy has suffered losses of Rs822 billion due to recent floods impacting 70 districts and over 6.5 million people. Government reports say agriculture and infrastructure were hardest hit, with over 229,000 homes damaged and more than 1,000 lives lost in the devastating monsoon disaster.