The U.S. military says it destroyed five Iranian oil tankers, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict with Iran. This action comes amid broader tensions and could have serious geopolitical and economic repercussions.

The International Atomic Energy Agency reports that North Korea has built a new two-storey uranium enrichment facility, raising fresh alarm about the country's nuclear weapons program. The watchdog calls the development a matter of "serious concern," underscoring ongoing global proliferation risks.

The U.K., along with France, Canada and other nations, has accused Israeli settlers of "ethnic cleansing" in the West Bank and imposed a ban on goods from Israeli settlements. In response, Israel says it will close the British Consulate, signaling a serious diplomatic rift between the countries.

Newly released flight data indicates the Amazon cargo plane involved in the deadly Miami crash attempted to abort an unsteady landing before slamming into a van, killing five people. Investigators are examining the pilots' actions in the moments leading up to the crash, with one pilot reportedly warning of excessive speed. This adds critical detail to an ongoing aviation safety investigation with real casualties.

President Trump is reportedly overhauling the intelligence community, citing concerns about a 'deep state,' in a move critics say is dismantling structures built after the 9/11 attacks. This represents a significant shift in national security infrastructure with long-term implications for U.S. intelligence operations.

At a Republican party convention, President Trump proposed that every adult American receive $5,000 if Republicans win the midterms, though he provided no details on funding or implementation. The unconventional and unexplained proposal raises questions about fiscal policy and campaign messaging heading into the midterm elections.

South Carolina is experiencing its driest year in 131 years, according to the state climatologist, causing significant strain on farmers across the state. The prolonged drought highlights growing agricultural and economic concerns tied to shifting weather patterns.

Dominion Energy has announced it will begin lowering the water level of Lake Murray, a major reservoir in South Carolina. Such actions typically relate to infrastructure maintenance, flood control, or dam safety and can affect residents, recreation, and local ecosystems.

South Carolina plans to eliminate the so-called 'orphan tax,' a financial burden previously placed on foster children. The policy change signals a shift toward better supporting vulnerable youth in the state's foster care system.