InsiderWire Staff

Iran's ruling regime faces its deepest internal fractures in decades as competing power factions clash openly in Tehran while President Trump maintains economic pressure through continued blockade measures. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, parliamentary leadership, and security apparatus now operate as warring camps within a system showing clear signs of institutional breakdown.IRGC commander Ahmad Vahidi effectively runs Iran as a shadow leader, directly opposing parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf's faction. Meanwhile, Supreme National Security Council Director Mohammad Zolghadr operates behind the scenes as what sources describe as a &quot;hidden orchestrator.&quot; The fractured leadership has transformed Iran's government into what observers call &quot;a joint-stock company of intelligence-security criminals.&quot;Adding to the chaos, persistent rumors surround the fate of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's son, Mojtaba Khamenei, with speculation about his death spreading throughout Iranian society. The Assembly of Experts issued statements claiming he remains alive, supported by regime-affiliated clerics, but the unusual secrecy fuels questions about whether these declarations constitute political theater.U.S. and Israeli intelligence agencies have not confirmed whether Mojtaba Khamenei is alive or dead, leaving American policymakers to navigate negotiations with a regime whose succession remains murky. The uncertainty complicates Trump's strategy as he <a href="https://insiderwire.com/news/trump-backs-navy-blockade-as-us-iran-peace-talks-remain-stalled">backs Navy blockade measures</a> while rejecting Iran's latest diplomatic overtures.The internal power struggle exposes the regime's fundamental weakness at a time when Iran's economy buckles under sustained U.S. pressure. Trump's decision to maintain the blockade capitalizes on Tehran's inability to present a unified negotiating position, potentially forcing better terms for American interests in any future deal.For American national security, Iran's fractured leadership presents both opportunity and risk. A weakened regime may prove more willing to make concessions on nuclear programs and regional aggression, but internal chaos could also lead to unpredictable actions by competing factions seeking to consolidate power through external conflict.The situation puts Trump in position to extract maximum concessions from a regime at war with itself, while Iranian factions struggle to determine who actually holds authority to negotiate on behalf of the Islamic Republic.

Iran's ruling regime faces its deepest internal fractures in decades as competing power factions clash openly in Tehran while President Trump maintains economic pressure through continued blockade measures. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, parliamentary leadership, and security apparatus now operate as warring camps within a system showing clear signs of institutional breakdown.

IRGC commander Ahmad Vahidi effectively runs Iran as a shadow leader, directly opposing parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf's faction. Meanwhile, Supreme National Security Council Director Mohammad Zolghadr operates behind the scenes as what sources describe as a "hidden orchestrator." The fractured leadership has transformed Iran's government into what observers call "a joint-stock company of intelligence-security criminals."

Adding to the chaos, persistent rumors surround the fate of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's son, Mojtaba Khamenei, with speculation about his death spreading throughout Iranian society. The Assembly of Experts issued statements claiming he remains alive, supported by regime-affiliated clerics, but the unusual secrecy fuels questions about whether these declarations constitute political theater.

U.S. and Israeli intelligence agencies have not confirmed whether Mojtaba Khamenei is alive or dead, leaving American policymakers to navigate negotiations with a regime whose succession remains murky. The uncertainty complicates Trump's strategy as he backs Navy blockade measures while rejecting Iran's latest diplomatic overtures.

The internal power struggle exposes the regime's fundamental weakness at a time when Iran's economy buckles under sustained U.S. pressure. Trump's decision to maintain the blockade capitalizes on Tehran's inability to present a unified negotiating position, potentially forcing better terms for American interests in any future deal.

For American national security, Iran's fractured leadership presents both opportunity and risk. A weakened regime may prove more willing to make concessions on nuclear programs and regional aggression, but internal chaos could also lead to unpredictable actions by competing factions seeking to consolidate power through external conflict.

The situation puts Trump in position to extract maximum concessions from a regime at war with itself, while Iranian factions struggle to determine who actually holds authority to negotiate on behalf of the Islamic Republic.

Tehran's regime shows signs of internal collapse with IRGC, parliamentary factions clashing amid rumors about Supreme Leader's son Mojtaba Khamenei's status.

Iran's Power Structure Fractures as Trump Maintains Economic Blockade

Police arrested Xin Tong, 31, on felony charges after discovering methamphetamine manufacturing chemicals in his possession at Michigan State University's Wells Hall, the campus's largest academic building. The former MSU student faces charges including operating a controlled substance lab and malicious destruction of property over $20,000.Officers responded to Wells Hall earlier this week following reports of a suspicious person, strong chemical odors, and unknown substances on floors. They found Tong inside the building and identified him using an expired MSU student ID. A subsequent search warrant revealed multiple bags containing sodium hydroxide pellets, hydrochloric acid, methanol, isopropyl alcohol, acetone, and butane—all substances commonly used in methamphetamine production.&quot;The chemicals include sodium hydroxide pellets, hydrochloric acid, methanol, isopropyl alcohol, acetone, and butane. Multiple tests performed by the Office of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) confirm the environment in Wells Hall does not pose a risk to our community,&quot; MSU police stated. Officials clarified that no actual meth lab was discovered inside the building, but Tong possessed &quot;chemicals and/or equipment that could be used in the production of methamphetamine.&quot;The incident reveals significant security gaps at one of America's largest public universities. Tong allegedly operated undetected in Wells Hall between April 10 and April 26, causing substantial damage to doors, flooring, and fixtures during his 16-day presence. The building houses multiple academic departments and sees heavy student traffic daily.University officials evacuated Wells Hall on Monday and kept it closed through Friday &quot;out of an abundance of caution.&quot; The closure disrupted classes and operations for thousands of students in the building that serves as MSU's primary academic hub. Campus police emphasized that environmental safety tests showed no ongoing threat to the university community.Tong remains held at Ingham County Jail on $500,000 bond. The Department of Homeland Security placed an additional hold on his release, suggesting potential immigration violations. His charges include felony controlled substance lab operation, trespassing, and malicious destruction of a building over $20,000.The case highlights broader concerns about campus security and drug manufacturing operations targeting university facilities. Academic buildings often provide easy access, chemical storage areas, and relative privacy that can attract illegal drug production. The extended timeframe of Tong's alleged activities raises questions about MSU's building monitoring and security protocols.Campus officials have not announced when Wells Hall will fully reopen or what additional security measures they plan to implement following the incident.

Police arrested Xin Tong, 31, on felony charges after discovering methamphetamine manufacturing chemicals in his possession at Michigan State University's Wells Hall, the campus's largest academic building. The former MSU student faces charges including operating a controlled substance lab and malicious destruction of property over $20,000.

Officers responded to Wells Hall earlier this week following reports of a suspicious person, strong chemical odors, and unknown substances on floors. They found Tong inside the building and identified him using an expired MSU student ID. A subsequent search warrant revealed multiple bags containing sodium hydroxide pellets, hydrochloric acid, methanol, isopropyl alcohol, acetone, and butane—all substances commonly used in methamphetamine production.

"The chemicals include sodium hydroxide pellets, hydrochloric acid, methanol, isopropyl alcohol, acetone, and butane. Multiple tests performed by the Office of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) confirm the environment in Wells Hall does not pose a risk to our community," MSU police stated. Officials clarified that no actual meth lab was discovered inside the building, but Tong possessed "chemicals and/or equipment that could be used in the production of methamphetamine."

The incident reveals significant security gaps at one of America's largest public universities. Tong allegedly operated undetected in Wells Hall between April 10 and April 26, causing substantial damage to doors, flooring, and fixtures during his 16-day presence. The building houses multiple academic departments and sees heavy student traffic daily.

University officials evacuated Wells Hall on Monday and kept it closed through Friday "out of an abundance of caution." The closure disrupted classes and operations for thousands of students in the building that serves as MSU's primary academic hub. Campus police emphasized that environmental safety tests showed no ongoing threat to the university community.

Tong remains held at Ingham County Jail on $500,000 bond. The Department of Homeland Security placed an additional hold on his release, suggesting potential immigration violations. His charges include felony controlled substance lab operation, trespassing, and malicious destruction of a building over $20,000.

The case highlights broader concerns about campus security and drug manufacturing operations targeting university facilities. Academic buildings often provide easy access, chemical storage areas, and relative privacy that can attract illegal drug production. The extended timeframe of Tong's alleged activities raises questions about MSU's building monitoring and security protocols.

Campus officials have not announced when Wells Hall will fully reopen or what additional security measures they plan to implement following the incident.

Xin Tong, 31, faces felony charges after police found methamphetamine manufacturing chemicals in his bags at MSU's Wells Hall academic building.

Michigan State Police Arrest Ex-Student With Meth Lab Chemicals in Campus Building

Myanmar's military junta moved detained former leader Aung San Suu Kyi from prison to house arrest, state media announced Thursday, marking the first major change in the 80-year-old Nobel laureate's status since her capture during the 2021 coup. Military leader Min Aung Hlaing said he &quot;commuted her remaining sentence to be served at the designated residence&quot; in the capital Nay Pyi Taw.The announcement comes after more than five years of complete isolation for the pro-democracy icon. Her lawyers haven't seen her for over three years. Her family has had zero contact for more than two years. State television broadcast a single photograph showing her sitting with two uniformed personnel, the first image since a May 2021 court appearance.Her son Kim Aris rejected the military's claims outright. &quot;I hope this is true. I still haven't seen any real evidence to show that she has been moved,&quot; he told the BBC from London. &quot;So, until I'm allowed communication with her, or somebody can independently verify her condition and her whereabouts, then I won't believe anything.&quot; He dismissed the state media photograph as &quot;meaningless,&quot; saying it was taken in 2022.Aung San Suu Kyi's legal team told Reuters they received no direct notification about any house arrest transfer. Nothing has been known about her health or living conditions since armed forces seized her elected government on the coup's first day. The military convicted her on fabricated charges that produced a 33-year sentence, later reduced through several commutations.The timing suggests Myanmar's generals may be preparing broader changes to her status, possibly partial or complete release. Min Aung Hlaing desperately wants to end his regime's international isolation and appears more confident after recent battlefield victories against armed opposition groups. The junta held sham elections earlier this year, installing a nominally democratic government that keeps the same military leaders in power.Sean Turnell, Aung San Suu Kyi's former economic adviser, identified the broader strategy. &quot;The military regime that rules Myanmar is very much on a [public relations] offensive at the moment,&quot; he told BBC's Newsday program. The generals are &quot;trying to convince the world that it's a legitimate government.&quot;For Americans, Myanmar's instability matters because it strengthens China's regional influence while creating refugee flows that strain allied nations like Thailand and India. The country sits on critical trade routes between China and the Indian Ocean, making its governance directly relevant to U.S. strategic interests in countering Beijing's expansion.Watch whether the military follows through with actual communication access or independent verification of Aung San Suu Kyi's condition - the real test of whether this represents genuine change or mere propaganda theater.

Myanmar's military junta moved detained former leader Aung San Suu Kyi from prison to house arrest, state media announced Thursday, marking the first major change in the 80-year-old Nobel laureate's status since her capture during the 2021 coup. Military leader Min Aung Hlaing said he "commuted her remaining sentence to be served at the designated residence" in the capital Nay Pyi Taw.

The announcement comes after more than five years of complete isolation for the pro-democracy icon. Her lawyers haven't seen her for over three years. Her family has had zero contact for more than two years. State television broadcast a single photograph showing her sitting with two uniformed personnel, the first image since a May 2021 court appearance.

Her son Kim Aris rejected the military's claims outright. "I hope this is true. I still haven't seen any real evidence to show that she has been moved," he told the BBC from London. "So, until I'm allowed communication with her, or somebody can independently verify her condition and her whereabouts, then I won't believe anything." He dismissed the state media photograph as "meaningless," saying it was taken in 2022.

Aung San Suu Kyi's legal team told Reuters they received no direct notification about any house arrest transfer. Nothing has been known about her health or living conditions since armed forces seized her elected government on the coup's first day. The military convicted her on fabricated charges that produced a 33-year sentence, later reduced through several commutations.

The timing suggests Myanmar's generals may be preparing broader changes to her status, possibly partial or complete release. Min Aung Hlaing desperately wants to end his regime's international isolation and appears more confident after recent battlefield victories against armed opposition groups. The junta held sham elections earlier this year, installing a nominally democratic government that keeps the same military leaders in power.

Sean Turnell, Aung San Suu Kyi's former economic adviser, identified the broader strategy. "The military regime that rules Myanmar is very much on a [public relations] offensive at the moment," he told BBC's Newsday program. The generals are "trying to convince the world that it's a legitimate government."

For Americans, Myanmar's instability matters because it strengthens China's regional influence while creating refugee flows that strain allied nations like Thailand and India. The country sits on critical trade routes between China and the Indian Ocean, making its governance directly relevant to U.S. strategic interests in countering Beijing's expansion.

Watch whether the military follows through with actual communication access or independent verification of Aung San Suu Kyi's condition - the real test of whether this represents genuine change or mere propaganda theater.

Myanmar's military moved detained Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, 80, from prison to house arrest. Her son doubts the announcement, demanding proof of life.

Myanmar Moves Aung San Suu Kyi to House Arrest After 5 Years Prison

A domestic violence suspect died in a massive house explosion that injured seven NYPD officers and displaced 25 residents in Queens Thursday morning. Dramatic bodycam footage captured the blast that threw officers off their feet as they approached the South Richmond Hill home.Officers responded to a 911 call before 3 a.m. at a home on 130th Street after a family member reported that 50-year-old Anoop Parasram had forced entry through a basement window while intoxicated and armed with a knife. The caller warned that the house smelled like gas.&quot;Once in the apartment, the [suspect's] daughter and his two grandchildren manage to flee to safety,&quot; NYPD Assistant Chief Christopher McIntosh said at a news conference. The suspect had been &quot;menacing and threatening&quot; another victim with the knife before that person also escaped.The explosion occurred just 15 minutes after the initial 911 call, as officers attempted to enter the residence with a key provided by one of the victims. &quot;Our officers were at the front door of the residence, attempting to enter, when suddenly a massive, fiery explosion erupted,&quot; McIntosh said.&quot;The guy just set the house on fire, we've got an explosion,&quot; one officer can be heard saying in the released bodycam video. The blast shattered windows outward and launched multiple officers into the front gates of the residence.Police recovered Parasram's body from the rubble after the five-alarm fire was extinguished. All seven injured officers remained in stable condition. Despite their injuries, officers immediately rushed in after the blast to evacuate residents, including several children from neighboring homes.The incident reveals troubling patterns of escalating domestic violence. Parasram had three expired orders of protection against him, and police had responded to the residence multiple times previously. Security footage from a neighbor shows a person carrying two garbage bags filled with canisters of an unknown substance prior to the explosion.The blast damaged multiple homes and forced the Red Cross to provide temporary housing assistance to 18 adults and seven children. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani praised the first responders for their &quot;extraordinary bravery&quot; in the face of the dangerous situation.The cause of the explosion remains under investigation, though the gas smell reported by the 911 caller and the suspect's apparent preparation suggest a deliberate act. The incident highlights the deadly risks officers face responding to domestic violence calls, which consistently rank among the most dangerous situations for law enforcement.This is a developing story and will be updated.

A domestic violence suspect died in a massive house explosion that injured seven NYPD officers and displaced 25 residents in Queens Thursday morning. Dramatic bodycam footage captured the blast that threw officers off their feet as they approached the South Richmond Hill home.

Officers responded to a 911 call before 3 a.m. at a home on 130th Street after a family member reported that 50-year-old Anoop Parasram had forced entry through a basement window while intoxicated and armed with a knife. The caller warned that the house smelled like gas.

"Once in the apartment, the [suspect's] daughter and his two grandchildren manage to flee to safety," NYPD Assistant Chief Christopher McIntosh said at a news conference. The suspect had been "menacing and threatening" another victim with the knife before that person also escaped.

The explosion occurred just 15 minutes after the initial 911 call, as officers attempted to enter the residence with a key provided by one of the victims. "Our officers were at the front door of the residence, attempting to enter, when suddenly a massive, fiery explosion erupted," McIntosh said.

"The guy just set the house on fire, we've got an explosion," one officer can be heard saying in the released bodycam video. The blast shattered windows outward and launched multiple officers into the front gates of the residence.

Police recovered Parasram's body from the rubble after the five-alarm fire was extinguished. All seven injured officers remained in stable condition. Despite their injuries, officers immediately rushed in after the blast to evacuate residents, including several children from neighboring homes.

The incident reveals troubling patterns of escalating domestic violence. Parasram had three expired orders of protection against him, and police had responded to the residence multiple times previously. Security footage from a neighbor shows a person carrying two garbage bags filled with canisters of an unknown substance prior to the explosion.

The blast damaged multiple homes and forced the Red Cross to provide temporary housing assistance to 18 adults and seven children. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani praised the first responders for their "extraordinary bravery" in the face of the dangerous situation.

The cause of the explosion remains under investigation, though the gas smell reported by the 911 caller and the suspect's apparent preparation suggest a deliberate act. The incident highlights the deadly risks officers face responding to domestic violence calls, which consistently rank among the most dangerous situations for law enforcement.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

Anoop Parasram, 50, died in Queens house explosion Thursday morning after domestic dispute call. Seven NYPD officers injured, 25 residents displaced.

NYPD Bodycam Shows Massive Blast That Killed Domestic Suspect, Injured 7 Officers

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy ordered his representatives Thursday to contact the Trump administration for details on Russia's proposed May 9 ceasefire, following a phone call between Vladimir Putin and President Trump the previous day.Putin proposed the short-term ceasefire to coincide with Victory Day celebrations in Russia, according to the Kremlin. &quot;We have instructed our representatives to contact the United States president's team and clarify the details of the Russian proposal for a short-term ceasefire,&quot; Zelenskyy said in a Telegram post.The Ukrainian leader questioned whether Putin's proposal amounts to &quot;a few hours of security for a parade in Moscow or something more.&quot; Zelenskyy indicated Ukraine wants a longer-term arrangement than what Russia has offered.Putin aide Yuri Ushakov confirmed the Russian president discussed a ceasefire for the May 9 holiday during Wednesday's call with Trump. But Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Thursday no concrete decision has been made on specific terms. &quot;For now, no definite decision has been made,&quot; Peskov told reporters.The diplomatic maneuvering comes as fighting continues on multiple fronts. Russian overnight attacks killed one person in the central city of Dnipro and wounded dozens in the southern port of Odesa. Ukraine struck Russian industrial facilities for the second consecutive day.Meanwhile, a diplomatic victory emerged for Ukraine in Israel. A grain ship that Zelenskyy said carried stolen Ukrainian wheat from occupied territories departed Israel Thursday without unloading its cargo. The Israel Grain Importers Association said the country's largest import company rejected the shipment &quot;due to the sensitive situation with Ukraine.&quot;Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha called the development a win for Ukraine's legal strategy. &quot;This demonstrates that Ukraine's legal and diplomatic actions have been effective,&quot; he posted on X. Zelenskyy had threatened sanctions against Israel Tuesday if the vessel unloaded.The ceasefire discussions represent the first concrete proposal to emerge from Trump's promised diplomatic push. For American taxpayers, any pause in fighting could reduce pressure for additional aid packages to Ukraine while creating space for broader negotiations.Trump campaigned on ending the war quickly, but Putin's Victory Day proposal tests whether Russia is serious about substantive talks or merely seeking propaganda wins. Victory Day celebrates Russia's World War II victory over Nazi Germany and serves as Putin's biggest annual military showcase.Watch for Ukraine's response after receiving details from the Trump team, and whether other allies support the ceasefire framework.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy ordered his representatives Thursday to contact the Trump administration for details on Russia's proposed May 9 ceasefire, following a phone call between Vladimir Putin and President Trump the previous day.

Putin proposed the short-term ceasefire to coincide with Victory Day celebrations in Russia, according to the Kremlin. "We have instructed our representatives to contact the United States president's team and clarify the details of the Russian proposal for a short-term ceasefire," Zelenskyy said in a Telegram post.

The Ukrainian leader questioned whether Putin's proposal amounts to "a few hours of security for a parade in Moscow or something more." Zelenskyy indicated Ukraine wants a longer-term arrangement than what Russia has offered.

Putin aide Yuri Ushakov confirmed the Russian president discussed a ceasefire for the May 9 holiday during Wednesday's call with Trump. But Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Thursday no concrete decision has been made on specific terms. "For now, no definite decision has been made," Peskov told reporters.

The diplomatic maneuvering comes as fighting continues on multiple fronts. Russian overnight attacks killed one person in the central city of Dnipro and wounded dozens in the southern port of Odesa. Ukraine struck Russian industrial facilities for the second consecutive day.

Meanwhile, a diplomatic victory emerged for Ukraine in Israel. A grain ship that Zelenskyy said carried stolen Ukrainian wheat from occupied territories departed Israel Thursday without unloading its cargo. The Israel Grain Importers Association said the country's largest import company rejected the shipment "due to the sensitive situation with Ukraine."

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha called the development a win for Ukraine's legal strategy. "This demonstrates that Ukraine's legal and diplomatic actions have been effective," he posted on X. Zelenskyy had threatened sanctions against Israel Tuesday if the vessel unloaded.

The ceasefire discussions represent the first concrete proposal to emerge from Trump's promised diplomatic push. For American taxpayers, any pause in fighting could reduce pressure for additional aid packages to Ukraine while creating space for broader negotiations.

Trump campaigned on ending the war quickly, but Putin's Victory Day proposal tests whether Russia is serious about substantive talks or merely seeking propaganda wins. Victory Day celebrates Russia's World War II victory over Nazi Germany and serves as Putin's biggest annual military showcase.

Watch for Ukraine's response after receiving details from the Trump team, and whether other allies support the ceasefire framework.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy seeks clarification on Russia's proposed short-term ceasefire for Victory Day after Putin's Wednesday call with Trump.

Zelenskyy Demands Details on Putin's May 9 Ceasefire Proposal to Trump

Republican lawmakers will let Friday's 60-day War Powers deadline pass without forcing President Trump to seek congressional authorization for military action in Iran. Senate Majority Leader John Thune said Thursday he has no plans for a vote on the matter.Under the War Powers Resolution of 1973, Congress must declare war or authorize force within 60 days of military action — or 90 days if the president requests an extension. The Trump administration has ignored both requirements, arguing the deadlines don't apply because of the ceasefire that began in early April.The Senate left town Thursday for a week-long recess after <a href="https://insiderwire.com/news/senate-democrats-force-sixth-vote-to-block-trumps-iran-military-action">rejecting a Democratic attempt</a> to halt the war for the sixth time. &quot;I'm listening carefully to what the members of our conference are saying, and at this point I don't see that,&quot; Thune told reporters when asked about an authorization vote.The GOP's reluctance comes as public frustration mounts over both the conflict and rising gas prices. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Air Force Gen. Danial Caine faced sharp questioning during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing Thursday on the Pentagon's $2.1 trillion budget request.North Dakota Sen. Kevin Cramer said he would vote for war authorization if Trump requested it, but questioned whether the War Powers Resolution is constitutional. &quot;Our founders created a really strong executive, like it or not like it,&quot; Cramer said.A small group of GOP senators are pushing back. Alaska's Lisa Murkowski announced Thursday she will introduce a limited authorization when the Senate returns if the administration doesn't present a &quot;credible plan.&quot; &quot;I do not believe we should engage in open-ended military action without clear accountability,&quot; she said during floor remarks. &quot;Congress has a role.&quot;Maine Sen. Susan Collins broke with her party Thursday, voting with Democrats to halt the war for the first time. She demanded a &quot;defined strategy for bringing the conflict to a close&quot; in a statement.The war has already cost taxpayers $25 billion, according to Pentagon estimates. Trump maintains the ceasefire proves his strategy worked, while critics argue Congress is abdicating its constitutional authority over war powers.Watch whether Murkowski follows through with her authorization bill when senators return May 12, and whether more Republicans join Collins in breaking ranks if the ceasefire collapses.

Republican lawmakers will let Friday's 60-day War Powers deadline pass without forcing President Trump to seek congressional authorization for military action in Iran. Senate Majority Leader John Thune said Thursday he has no plans for a vote on the matter.

Under the War Powers Resolution of 1973, Congress must declare war or authorize force within 60 days of military action — or 90 days if the president requests an extension. The Trump administration has ignored both requirements, arguing the deadlines don't apply because of the ceasefire that began in early April.

The Senate left town Thursday for a week-long recess after rejecting a Democratic attempt to halt the war for the sixth time. "I'm listening carefully to what the members of our conference are saying, and at this point I don't see that," Thune told reporters when asked about an authorization vote.

The GOP's reluctance comes as public frustration mounts over both the conflict and rising gas prices. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Air Force Gen. Danial Caine faced sharp questioning during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing Thursday on the Pentagon's $2.1 trillion budget request.

North Dakota Sen. Kevin Cramer said he would vote for war authorization if Trump requested it, but questioned whether the War Powers Resolution is constitutional. "Our founders created a really strong executive, like it or not like it," Cramer said.

A small group of GOP senators are pushing back. Alaska's Lisa Murkowski announced Thursday she will introduce a limited authorization when the Senate returns if the administration doesn't present a "credible plan." "I do not believe we should engage in open-ended military action without clear accountability," she said during floor remarks. "Congress has a role."

Maine Sen. Susan Collins broke with her party Thursday, voting with Democrats to halt the war for the first time. She demanded a "defined strategy for bringing the conflict to a close" in a statement.

The war has already cost taxpayers $25 billion, according to Pentagon estimates. Trump maintains the ceasefire proves his strategy worked, while critics argue Congress is abdicating its constitutional authority over war powers.

Watch whether Murkowski follows through with her authorization bill when senators return May 12, and whether more Republicans join Collins in breaking ranks if the ceasefire collapses.

Republican lawmakers allow Friday's 60-day War Powers deadline to pass without forcing Trump to seek congressional approval for Iran military action.

GOP Lets War Powers Deadline Pass — No Vote on Iran Authorization

The Trump administration declared Thursday that hostilities with Iran have &quot;terminated&quot; under the War Powers Resolution, just one day before the president faced a 60-day congressional deadline to either end military action or seek authorization to continue the conflict.&quot;For war powers resolution purposes, the hostilities that began on Saturday, February 28, have terminated,&quot; a senior Trump administration official said Thursday. The official noted that US armed forces and Iran have not exchanged fire since a fragile ceasefire began more than three weeks ago in early April.The declaration came as Senate Democrats <a href="https://insiderwire.com/news/senate-democrats-force-sixth-vote-to-block-trumps-iran-military-action">forced their sixth vote this year</a> to block Trump's military action in Iran. The Republican-led Senate rejected the war powers resolution 50-47, with two GOP senators breaking ranks. Susan Collins of Maine and Rand Paul of Kentucky joined Democrats, while John Fetterman of Pennsylvania opposed his own party by voting against the measure.Under the 1973 War Powers Resolution, presidents have 60 days to wage military action before ending it, seeking congressional authorization, or requesting a 30-day extension on grounds of &quot;unavoidable military necessity&quot; for armed forces safety. Friday marked exactly 60 days since the Trump administration notified Congress it was conducting strikes against Iran.Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testified on Capitol Hill that the administration believes the 60-day clock was paused due to the current ceasefire with Iran. <a href="https://insiderwire.com/news/pentagon-faces-gop-heat-over-war-powers-clock-confusion">This interpretation has drawn criticism</a> from Democrats and constitutional scholars who argue ceasefires do not suspend War Powers Resolution requirements.Adam Schiff, who authored Thursday's failed resolution, called the vote &quot;critical&quot; given the approaching deadline. Congressional aides had predicted Trump would either notify Congress of a 30-day extension or disregard the deadline entirely, with the administration arguing the ceasefire effectively ended the conflict.The US Constitution grants Congress, not the president, the exclusive power to declare war. The War Powers Resolution was passed in 1973 to check presidential military authority following the Vietnam War, requiring congressional approval for extended military campaigns.The Iran conflict has already cost American taxpayers $25 billion and shows no signs of permanent resolution despite the current lull in fighting. With the administration's declaration that hostilities have ended, Trump appears to have sidestepped the congressional deadline while maintaining military assets in position should fighting resume.

The Trump administration declared Thursday that hostilities with Iran have "terminated" under the War Powers Resolution, just one day before the president faced a 60-day congressional deadline to either end military action or seek authorization to continue the conflict.

"For war powers resolution purposes, the hostilities that began on Saturday, February 28, have terminated," a senior Trump administration official said Thursday. The official noted that US armed forces and Iran have not exchanged fire since a fragile ceasefire began more than three weeks ago in early April.

The declaration came as Senate Democrats forced their sixth vote this year to block Trump's military action in Iran. The Republican-led Senate rejected the war powers resolution 50-47, with two GOP senators breaking ranks. Susan Collins of Maine and Rand Paul of Kentucky joined Democrats, while John Fetterman of Pennsylvania opposed his own party by voting against the measure.

Under the 1973 War Powers Resolution, presidents have 60 days to wage military action before ending it, seeking congressional authorization, or requesting a 30-day extension on grounds of "unavoidable military necessity" for armed forces safety. Friday marked exactly 60 days since the Trump administration notified Congress it was conducting strikes against Iran.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testified on Capitol Hill that the administration believes the 60-day clock was paused due to the current ceasefire with Iran. This interpretation has drawn criticism from Democrats and constitutional scholars who argue ceasefires do not suspend War Powers Resolution requirements.

Adam Schiff, who authored Thursday's failed resolution, called the vote "critical" given the approaching deadline. Congressional aides had predicted Trump would either notify Congress of a 30-day extension or disregard the deadline entirely, with the administration arguing the ceasefire effectively ended the conflict.

The US Constitution grants Congress, not the president, the exclusive power to declare war. The War Powers Resolution was passed in 1973 to check presidential military authority following the Vietnam War, requiring congressional approval for extended military campaigns.

The Iran conflict has already cost American taxpayers $25 billion and shows no signs of permanent resolution despite the current lull in fighting. With the administration's declaration that hostilities have ended, Trump appears to have sidestepped the congressional deadline while maintaining military assets in position should fighting resume.

Trump administration says US-Iran ceasefire that began in early April has ended hostilities for War Powers Resolution purposes as 60-day deadline expires Friday

Trump Declares Iran Hostilities 'Terminated' as War Powers Deadline Passes

Trump administration says US-Iran ceasefire that began in early April has ended hostilities for War Powers Resolution purposes as 60-day deadline expires Friday.

Senate Republicans are pressing the Trump administration to clarify how it interprets the 60-day War Powers Act deadline for military operations against Iran, as confusion mounts over when the clock started ticking.The War Powers Resolution requires presidents to seek congressional authorization within 60 days of committing armed forces to hostilities. Republicans want the Pentagon to specify exactly how it's counting those days and whether recent ceasefire developments reset the timeline.Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth <a href="https://insiderwire.com/news/hegseth-says-60-day-war-powers-clock-stopped-with-iran-ceasefire">previously claimed the War Powers clock stopped</a> with Iran ceasefire negotiations, but GOP senators say the administration hasn't provided clear legal justification for that interpretation.The timing matters enormously for congressional oversight. If the 60-day window remains active, Trump would need explicit authorization from Congress to continue military operations. If the clock has stopped or reset, the administration gains more flexibility to act unilaterally.This represents a rare break between Trump and Senate Republicans, who have otherwise supported his Iran strategy. <a href="https://insiderwire.com/news/trump-hits-60-day-war-powers-deadline-friday-gop-senators-break-ranks">Several GOP senators broke ranks</a> as the original deadline approached, demanding more transparency about the legal framework governing ongoing operations.The Iran campaign has already cost taxpayers $25 billion, making congressional oversight even more critical. Republicans worry about setting precedents that could weaken legislative war powers in future conflicts.Constitutional scholars argue the War Powers Act's language is clear: the 60-day clock runs continuously once hostilities begin, regardless of temporary ceasefires or negotiations. The administration's interpretation could face legal challenges if it continues military action without congressional approval.The standoff highlights broader tensions over executive war powers that have simmered for decades. Presidents from both parties have pushed the boundaries of unilateral military action, while Congress has struggled to reassert its constitutional role in declaring war.Pentagon officials are expected to brief Republican senators this week on their War Powers interpretation, potentially setting up a confrontation over constitutional authority that could reach the courts.

Senate Republicans are pressing the Trump administration to clarify how it interprets the 60-day War Powers Act deadline for military operations against Iran, as confusion mounts over when the clock started ticking.

The War Powers Resolution requires presidents to seek congressional authorization within 60 days of committing armed forces to hostilities. Republicans want the Pentagon to specify exactly how it's counting those days and whether recent ceasefire developments reset the timeline.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth previously claimed the War Powers clock stopped with Iran ceasefire negotiations, but GOP senators say the administration hasn't provided clear legal justification for that interpretation.

The timing matters enormously for congressional oversight. If the 60-day window remains active, Trump would need explicit authorization from Congress to continue military operations. If the clock has stopped or reset, the administration gains more flexibility to act unilaterally.

This represents a rare break between Trump and Senate Republicans, who have otherwise supported his Iran strategy. Several GOP senators broke ranks as the original deadline approached, demanding more transparency about the legal framework governing ongoing operations.

The Iran campaign has already cost taxpayers $25 billion, making congressional oversight even more critical. Republicans worry about setting precedents that could weaken legislative war powers in future conflicts.

Constitutional scholars argue the War Powers Act's language is clear: the 60-day clock runs continuously once hostilities begin, regardless of temporary ceasefires or negotiations. The administration's interpretation could face legal challenges if it continues military action without congressional approval.

The standoff highlights broader tensions over executive war powers that have simmered for decades. Presidents from both parties have pushed the boundaries of unilateral military action, while Congress has struggled to reassert its constitutional role in declaring war.

Pentagon officials are expected to brief Republican senators this week on their War Powers interpretation, potentially setting up a confrontation over constitutional authority that could reach the courts.

Senate Republicans demand Trump administration clarify its interpretation of the 60-day War Powers deadline as Iran military operations continue.

Pentagon Faces GOP Heat Over War Powers Clock Confusion

Venezuelan authorities arrested Erika María Herrera this week after a two-week international manhunt for the murder of her daughter-in-law, former Mexican beauty queen Carolina Flores Gómez, Mexican officials announced Thursday.Flores Gómez, 27, who won Miss Teen Universe Baja California in 2017, was shot dead April 15 inside her luxury apartment in Mexico City's affluent Polanco neighborhood. Investigators found her body with 12 gunshot wounds — six to the head and six to the chest — in the apartment she shared with Herrera's son Alejandro and their 8-month-old child.Mexican authorities secured an arrest warrant and coordinated with Interpol to issue a Red Notice, enabling Venezuelan law enforcement to locate and detain Herrera after she fled the country. &quot;The detained individual is currently in the custody of authorities in that country, while the necessary procedures are carried out to formalize her extradition to Mexico,&quot; the Mexico City Attorney General's Office said.Baby monitor footage captured the chilling moments before and after the killing. The video shows Herrera following Flores Gómez into a room, followed by multiple gunshots and screaming. Alejandro then walks into frame holding his infant child, asking his mother what happened. Her response was cold: &quot;Nothing, she just made me angry.&quot; When her son protested that the victim &quot;is my family,&quot; Herrera simply walked away.The case raises questions about Alejandro's role in the aftermath. Reports indicate he allowed his mother to flee before reporting the shooting the next day, prompting investigators to examine whether he participated in a cover-up. Mexican prosecutors have opened a separate investigation into his actions following the murder.This brutal crime highlights the ongoing security challenges facing Mexico, where violence often crosses international borders as suspects flee to neighboring countries. The successful coordination between Mexican authorities, Interpol, and Venezuelan law enforcement demonstrates the reach of international law enforcement cooperation, even as Mexico continues to grapple with high murder rates that affect citizens across all social classes.Herrera now awaits extradition proceedings in Venezuelan custody. Mexican prosecutors will seek her return to face homicide charges in a case that shocked the country with its brutality and the callous indifference captured on video.

Venezuelan authorities arrested Erika María Herrera this week after a two-week international manhunt for the murder of her daughter-in-law, former Mexican beauty queen Carolina Flores Gómez, Mexican officials announced Thursday.

Flores Gómez, 27, who won Miss Teen Universe Baja California in 2017, was shot dead April 15 inside her luxury apartment in Mexico City's affluent Polanco neighborhood. Investigators found her body with 12 gunshot wounds — six to the head and six to the chest — in the apartment she shared with Herrera's son Alejandro and their 8-month-old child.

Mexican authorities secured an arrest warrant and coordinated with Interpol to issue a Red Notice, enabling Venezuelan law enforcement to locate and detain Herrera after she fled the country. "The detained individual is currently in the custody of authorities in that country, while the necessary procedures are carried out to formalize her extradition to Mexico," the Mexico City Attorney General's Office said.

Baby monitor footage captured the chilling moments before and after the killing. The video shows Herrera following Flores Gómez into a room, followed by multiple gunshots and screaming. Alejandro then walks into frame holding his infant child, asking his mother what happened. Her response was cold: "Nothing, she just made me angry." When her son protested that the victim "is my family," Herrera simply walked away.

The case raises questions about Alejandro's role in the aftermath. Reports indicate he allowed his mother to flee before reporting the shooting the next day, prompting investigators to examine whether he participated in a cover-up. Mexican prosecutors have opened a separate investigation into his actions following the murder.

This brutal crime highlights the ongoing security challenges facing Mexico, where violence often crosses international borders as suspects flee to neighboring countries. The successful coordination between Mexican authorities, Interpol, and Venezuelan law enforcement demonstrates the reach of international law enforcement cooperation, even as Mexico continues to grapple with high murder rates that affect citizens across all social classes.

Herrera now awaits extradition proceedings in Venezuelan custody. Mexican prosecutors will seek her return to face homicide charges in a case that shocked the country with its brutality and the callous indifference captured on video.

Erika María Herrera arrested in Venezuela for murder of Carolina Flores Gómez, former Miss Teen Universe Baja California, shot 12 times in Mexico City apartment

Mexican Beauty Queen's Mother-in-Law Captured in Venezuela After Two-Week Manhunt

Erika María Herrera arrested in Venezuela for murder of Carolina Flores Gómez, former Miss Teen Universe Baja California, shot 12 times in Mexico City apartment.

White Settlement Police officers turned jumper cables into a lifeline to rescue a mother trapped in fast-moving floodwaters at 11:12 p.m. on April 25, after quickly pulling her three young children to safety during severe flash flooding across North Texas.Sgt. John Banner spotted the stranded vehicle with its front end stuck in a channel flowing toward a creek while officers were already deployed citywide responding to dangerous storm conditions. Banner immediately moved the three small children into his patrol SUV as their mother remained trapped near the driver's side door, unable to reach higher ground against the surging current.Body camera footage released by the department captures the desperate moments as the woman cried &quot;Help me! Help me!&quot; while officers shouted instructions over the rushing water. &quot;I got you! Y'all get in the car!&quot; one officer yelled as they worked to prevent her from being swept downstream.When standard rescue techniques proved insufficient against the powerful current, Officer Christopher Wiseman improvised a solution that likely saved the woman's life. &quot;Well, this will have to work,&quot; he said after running to his patrol vehicle and grabbing jumper cables to create a makeshift harness.Officers instructed the woman to place the cables under her arms and around her chest while they gripped the other end, ready to pull her to safety if she lost her footing in the treacherous conditions. The unconventional rescue tool provided the secure lifeline needed to extract her from the dangerous floodwaters.The footage underscores the risks first responders face during emergency rescues, with one officer heard saying &quot;Don't let me fall in, man&quot; as conditions deteriorated around them. The quick thinking and resourcefulness of the White Settlement officers prevented what could have been a tragic outcome for the family.The successful rescue highlights the split-second decision-making required of law enforcement during natural disasters, when standard equipment may not be available and officers must adapt under pressure. The department's decision to release the body camera footage demonstrates the life-and-death situations officers navigate during severe weather emergencies.Texas has experienced increasingly severe flash flooding in recent years, creating dangerous conditions that trap motorists and challenge emergency responders across the state. This rescue serves as a reminder of both the unpredictable nature of flash floods and the innovative problem-solving skills of first responders who risk their lives to save others.

White Settlement Police officers turned jumper cables into a lifeline to rescue a mother trapped in fast-moving floodwaters at 11:12 p.m. on April 25, after quickly pulling her three young children to safety during severe flash flooding across North Texas.

Sgt. John Banner spotted the stranded vehicle with its front end stuck in a channel flowing toward a creek while officers were already deployed citywide responding to dangerous storm conditions. Banner immediately moved the three small children into his patrol SUV as their mother remained trapped near the driver's side door, unable to reach higher ground against the surging current.

Body camera footage released by the department captures the desperate moments as the woman cried "Help me! Help me!" while officers shouted instructions over the rushing water. "I got you! Y'all get in the car!" one officer yelled as they worked to prevent her from being swept downstream.

When standard rescue techniques proved insufficient against the powerful current, Officer Christopher Wiseman improvised a solution that likely saved the woman's life. "Well, this will have to work," he said after running to his patrol vehicle and grabbing jumper cables to create a makeshift harness.

Officers instructed the woman to place the cables under her arms and around her chest while they gripped the other end, ready to pull her to safety if she lost her footing in the treacherous conditions. The unconventional rescue tool provided the secure lifeline needed to extract her from the dangerous floodwaters.

The footage underscores the risks first responders face during emergency rescues, with one officer heard saying "Don't let me fall in, man" as conditions deteriorated around them. The quick thinking and resourcefulness of the White Settlement officers prevented what could have been a tragic outcome for the family.

The successful rescue highlights the split-second decision-making required of law enforcement during natural disasters, when standard equipment may not be available and officers must adapt under pressure. The department's decision to release the body camera footage demonstrates the life-and-death situations officers navigate during severe weather emergencies.

Texas has experienced increasingly severe flash flooding in recent years, creating dangerous conditions that trap motorists and challenge emergency responders across the state. This rescue serves as a reminder of both the unpredictable nature of flash floods and the innovative problem-solving skills of first responders who risk their lives to save others.

White Settlement Police officers used jumper cables as a makeshift harness to rescue a mother trapped in rushing floodwaters while her children were pulled to s

Texas Police Use Jumper Cables as Lifeline to Save Mother from Floodwaters

White Settlement Police officers used jumper cables as a makeshift harness to rescue a mother trapped in rushing floodwaters while her children were pulled to safety.