InsiderWire Staff

Rep. Sarah McBride (D-Del.) predicted Thursday that President Trump will fire Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard next, claiming Trump &quot;only fires women&quot; from his Cabinet positions.McBride made the accusation during an interview with MeidasTouch reporter Pablo Manríquez, adding that all of Trump's Cabinet officials &quot;deserve to be fired.&quot; The Delaware Democrat became the first openly transgender person elected to Congress when she won her House seat in November.The timing of McBride's comments comes as Trump has already made several high-profile personnel changes early in his second term. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth <a href="https://insiderwire.com/news/hegseth-fires-navy-secretary-phelan-as-us-forces-guard-hormuz-strait">recently fired Navy Secretary Phelan</a> amid ongoing Iran tensions, though that dismissal involved a male official.Gabbard, a former Hawaii congresswoman and 2020 Democratic presidential candidate, crossed party lines to endorse Trump and was rewarded with the top intelligence post. She now oversees the nation's 18 intelligence agencies during a period of heightened global tensions, including the ongoing Iran crisis and concerns about Chinese espionage.McBride's gender-based accusation against Trump reflects broader Democratic criticism of the president's personnel decisions. However, Trump's firing patterns during his first term included officials of both genders, including several high-profile male appointees like FBI Director James Comey, Attorney General Jeff Sessions, and Defense Secretary Mark Esper.The Delaware representative's comments also signal how House Democrats plan to frame their opposition to Trump's second-term agenda. McBride's sweeping claim that all Cabinet members &quot;deserve to be fired&quot; suggests Democrats will challenge Trump's picks across the board rather than focusing on specific policy disagreements.For American voters concerned about national security, the stability of intelligence leadership matters more than political theater. Gabbard's role overseeing critical intelligence operations requires focus on threats from China, Russia, and Iran — not Washington personality conflicts.Trump has not indicated any dissatisfaction with Gabbard's performance, and the DNI has been working to coordinate intelligence sharing as tensions remain high in the Middle East. Whether McBride's prediction proves accurate will depend more on Gabbard's effectiveness than her gender.

Rep. Sarah McBride (D-Del.) predicted Thursday that President Trump will fire Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard next, claiming Trump "only fires women" from his Cabinet positions.

McBride made the accusation during an interview with MeidasTouch reporter Pablo Manríquez, adding that all of Trump's Cabinet officials "deserve to be fired." The Delaware Democrat became the first openly transgender person elected to Congress when she won her House seat in November.

The timing of McBride's comments comes as Trump has already made several high-profile personnel changes early in his second term. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently fired Navy Secretary Phelan amid ongoing Iran tensions, though that dismissal involved a male official.

Gabbard, a former Hawaii congresswoman and 2020 Democratic presidential candidate, crossed party lines to endorse Trump and was rewarded with the top intelligence post. She now oversees the nation's 18 intelligence agencies during a period of heightened global tensions, including the ongoing Iran crisis and concerns about Chinese espionage.

McBride's gender-based accusation against Trump reflects broader Democratic criticism of the president's personnel decisions. However, Trump's firing patterns during his first term included officials of both genders, including several high-profile male appointees like FBI Director James Comey, Attorney General Jeff Sessions, and Defense Secretary Mark Esper.

The Delaware representative's comments also signal how House Democrats plan to frame their opposition to Trump's second-term agenda. McBride's sweeping claim that all Cabinet members "deserve to be fired" suggests Democrats will challenge Trump's picks across the board rather than focusing on specific policy disagreements.

For American voters concerned about national security, the stability of intelligence leadership matters more than political theater. Gabbard's role overseeing critical intelligence operations requires focus on threats from China, Russia, and Iran — not Washington personality conflicts.

Trump has not indicated any dissatisfaction with Gabbard's performance, and the DNI has been working to coordinate intelligence sharing as tensions remain high in the Middle East. Whether McBride's prediction proves accurate will depend more on Gabbard's effectiveness than her gender.

Rep. Sarah McBride (D-Del.) told reporters Thursday that President Trump will fire DNI Tulsi Gabbard next, claiming he 'only fires women' from his Cabinet.

McBride Claims Trump 'Only Fires Women' — Predicts Gabbard Next

President Trump declared Thursday he would not use nuclear weapons against Iran, reversing course from previous threats to unleash overwhelming force against the Islamic Republic.&quot;A nuclear weapon should never be allowed to be used by anybody,&quot; Trump told reporters at the White House, making his most definitive statement yet against nuclear deployment in the Middle East conflict.The comments mark a sharp departure from Trump's earlier warnings that he would &quot;completely destroy Iranian civilization&quot; if the regime continued its aggression against American forces and allies. Those threats came as tensions escalated following <a href="https://insiderwire.com/news/iran-closes-hormuz-strait-as-trumps-war-strategy-sparks-confusion">Iran's closure of the Hormuz Strait</a> and attacks on U.S. naval vessels.Trump's nuclear disavowal comes as his administration navigates a fragile ceasefire with Tehran that has <a href="https://insiderwire.com/news/iran-regime-survives-war-despite-500m-daily-losses-trump-extends-ceasefire">already been extended</a> despite Iran suffering $500 million in daily economic losses. The president's shift toward diplomatic language suggests the White House may be seeking a permanent resolution to avoid a wider regional war.The president's nuclear stance carries major implications for U.S. military planning in the Persian Gulf, where American forces continue to guard critical shipping lanes. Pentagon officials have maintained a policy of strategic ambiguity about nuclear weapons use, arguing that keeping adversaries guessing enhances deterrence.Trump's categorical rejection of nuclear force against Iran breaks with decades of U.S. doctrine that has never ruled out first use of atomic weapons. The declaration could embolden Iranian hardliners who view American nuclear threats as the primary constraint on their regional ambitions.The timing of Trump's remarks also signals potential progress in behind-the-scenes negotiations with Tehran. <a href="https://insiderwire.com/news/us-iran-peace-talks-hit-wall-despite-trumps-ceasefire-extension">Peace talks have stalled</a> in recent weeks, but Trump's public commitment to avoid nuclear escalation may provide Iranian negotiators with political cover to make concessions.For American taxpayers, Trump's position could reduce the massive costs of maintaining nuclear readiness in the Middle East while potentially opening new diplomatic pathways. However, it also removes the ultimate deterrent that has kept Iran from directly attacking U.S. bases in the region.The president's nuclear pledge will face immediate testing as the current ceasefire arrangement remains temporary and fragile, with both sides continuing military buildups despite the pause in active hostilities.

President Trump declared Thursday he would not use nuclear weapons against Iran, reversing course from previous threats to unleash overwhelming force against the Islamic Republic.

"A nuclear weapon should never be allowed to be used by anybody," Trump told reporters at the White House, making his most definitive statement yet against nuclear deployment in the Middle East conflict.

The comments mark a sharp departure from Trump's earlier warnings that he would "completely destroy Iranian civilization" if the regime continued its aggression against American forces and allies. Those threats came as tensions escalated following Iran's closure of the Hormuz Strait and attacks on U.S. naval vessels.

Trump's nuclear disavowal comes as his administration navigates a fragile ceasefire with Tehran that has already been extended despite Iran suffering $500 million in daily economic losses. The president's shift toward diplomatic language suggests the White House may be seeking a permanent resolution to avoid a wider regional war.

The president's nuclear stance carries major implications for U.S. military planning in the Persian Gulf, where American forces continue to guard critical shipping lanes. Pentagon officials have maintained a policy of strategic ambiguity about nuclear weapons use, arguing that keeping adversaries guessing enhances deterrence.

Trump's categorical rejection of nuclear force against Iran breaks with decades of U.S. doctrine that has never ruled out first use of atomic weapons. The declaration could embolden Iranian hardliners who view American nuclear threats as the primary constraint on their regional ambitions.

The timing of Trump's remarks also signals potential progress in behind-the-scenes negotiations with Tehran. Peace talks have stalled in recent weeks, but Trump's public commitment to avoid nuclear escalation may provide Iranian negotiators with political cover to make concessions.

For American taxpayers, Trump's position could reduce the massive costs of maintaining nuclear readiness in the Middle East while potentially opening new diplomatic pathways. However, it also removes the ultimate deterrent that has kept Iran from directly attacking U.S. bases in the region.

The president's nuclear pledge will face immediate testing as the current ceasefire arrangement remains temporary and fragile, with both sides continuing military buildups despite the pause in active hostilities.

President Trump said Thursday nuclear arms should never be used by anybody, stepping back from earlier threats to destroy Iranian civilization.

Trump Rules Out Nuclear Weapons Against Iran at White House

Ten people were injured Thursday when gunfire erupted at the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge after an argument between two groups escalated into a mass shooting, police said.Baton Rouge police responded to reports of shots fired at the shopping center Thursday afternoon. Officers found multiple victims with gunshot wounds scattered throughout the mall area. All 10 injured were transported to local hospitals, though their current conditions remain unknown.The shooting stemmed from a dispute between two groups inside the mall that quickly turned violent. Police have not released details about what sparked the initial argument or whether any suspects are in custody. The identities and ages of the victims have not been disclosed.The Mall of Louisiana, located on Bluebonnet Boulevard, is one of Baton Rouge's largest shopping destinations. The facility houses more than 100 stores and restaurants across 1.2 million square feet. Thursday's violence forced an immediate lockdown of the mall as shoppers and employees sheltered in place.Mass shootings at retail locations have become an increasing concern for law enforcement and security professionals nationwide. Shopping malls present unique challenges for security due to their open layouts, multiple entrances, and high volume of foot traffic from diverse populations.Louisiana has experienced several high-profile shooting incidents in recent years, including the <a href="https://insiderwire.com/news/shreveport-mother-fights-for-life-with-bullet-in-face-after-gunman-kills-her-3-kids">Shreveport family shooting</a> that left three children dead. The state's violent crime rate remains above the national average, with gun violence particularly concentrated in urban areas like Baton Rouge and New Orleans.The East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff's Office and Louisiana State Police are assisting with the investigation. Federal authorities have not indicated whether they plan to become involved in the case.Police expect to release additional details about the shooting, including information about potential arrests and the conditions of the wounded victims, as the investigation progresses.This is a developing story and will be updated.

Ten people were injured Thursday when gunfire erupted at the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge after an argument between two groups escalated into a mass shooting, police said.

Baton Rouge police responded to reports of shots fired at the shopping center Thursday afternoon. Officers found multiple victims with gunshot wounds scattered throughout the mall area. All 10 injured were transported to local hospitals, though their current conditions remain unknown.

The shooting stemmed from a dispute between two groups inside the mall that quickly turned violent. Police have not released details about what sparked the initial argument or whether any suspects are in custody. The identities and ages of the victims have not been disclosed.

The Mall of Louisiana, located on Bluebonnet Boulevard, is one of Baton Rouge's largest shopping destinations. The facility houses more than 100 stores and restaurants across 1.2 million square feet. Thursday's violence forced an immediate lockdown of the mall as shoppers and employees sheltered in place.

Mass shootings at retail locations have become an increasing concern for law enforcement and security professionals nationwide. Shopping malls present unique challenges for security due to their open layouts, multiple entrances, and high volume of foot traffic from diverse populations.

Louisiana has experienced several high-profile shooting incidents in recent years, including the Shreveport family shooting that left three children dead. The state's violent crime rate remains above the national average, with gun violence particularly concentrated in urban areas like Baton Rouge and New Orleans.

The East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff's Office and Louisiana State Police are assisting with the investigation. Federal authorities have not indicated whether they plan to become involved in the case.

Police expect to release additional details about the shooting, including information about potential arrests and the conditions of the wounded victims, as the investigation progresses.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

Ten people were injured Thursday when an argument between two groups escalated into a mass shooting at the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge.

Mall of Louisiana Shooting Injures 10 in Baton Rouge Group Fight

The Justice Department's inspector general will review how the agency has handled the release of Jeffrey Epstein records, evaluating the department's processes for identifying, redacting, and releasing documents in its possession as required by law.The watchdog review comes as lawmakers and the public continue demanding transparency about the federal government's handling of the Epstein case. The disgraced financier died in federal custody in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges, sparking widespread questions about potential government failures and cover-ups.The inspector general will &quot;evaluate the DOJ's processes for identifying, redacting, and releasing records in its possession as required&quot; by law, according to the announcement. This suggests the review will focus on whether the Justice Department has properly complied with legal mandates to make Epstein-related documents public.The timing puts fresh scrutiny on DOJ transparency practices just as the department faces broader questions about accountability under the new administration. Americans have consistently demanded answers about what federal agencies knew regarding Epstein's activities and his connections to powerful figures across politics and business.For taxpayers who have watched the Epstein saga unfold with mounting frustration, the inspector general review represents a potential pathway to accountability. The case has become a litmus test for whether federal law enforcement agencies can be trusted to police themselves and provide honest answers when their actions come under scrutiny.The review also highlights ongoing tensions between government secrecy and public transparency. While agencies often cite legitimate concerns about protecting ongoing investigations or sensitive information, critics argue that excessive redactions and delayed releases serve primarily to shield officials from embarrassment rather than protect national security.The announcement follows <a href="https://insiderwire.com/news/senate-gop-adopts-140b-budget-blueprint-for-ice-border-patrol-through-2028">Senate budget action</a> that stretched through the night, demonstrating lawmakers' focus on multiple oversight priorities as they work to hold federal agencies accountable.The inspector general's findings could determine whether the Justice Department has met its legal obligations or whether additional congressional action is needed to force full disclosure of government records related to one of the most high-profile federal cases in recent memory.

The Justice Department's inspector general will review how the agency has handled the release of Jeffrey Epstein records, evaluating the department's processes for identifying, redacting, and releasing documents in its possession as required by law.

The watchdog review comes as lawmakers and the public continue demanding transparency about the federal government's handling of the Epstein case. The disgraced financier died in federal custody in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges, sparking widespread questions about potential government failures and cover-ups.

The inspector general will "evaluate the DOJ's processes for identifying, redacting, and releasing records in its possession as required" by law, according to the announcement. This suggests the review will focus on whether the Justice Department has properly complied with legal mandates to make Epstein-related documents public.

The timing puts fresh scrutiny on DOJ transparency practices just as the department faces broader questions about accountability under the new administration. Americans have consistently demanded answers about what federal agencies knew regarding Epstein's activities and his connections to powerful figures across politics and business.

For taxpayers who have watched the Epstein saga unfold with mounting frustration, the inspector general review represents a potential pathway to accountability. The case has become a litmus test for whether federal law enforcement agencies can be trusted to police themselves and provide honest answers when their actions come under scrutiny.

The review also highlights ongoing tensions between government secrecy and public transparency. While agencies often cite legitimate concerns about protecting ongoing investigations or sensitive information, critics argue that excessive redactions and delayed releases serve primarily to shield officials from embarrassment rather than protect national security.

The announcement follows Senate budget action that stretched through the night, demonstrating lawmakers' focus on multiple oversight priorities as they work to hold federal agencies accountable.

The inspector general's findings could determine whether the Justice Department has met its legal obligations or whether additional congressional action is needed to force full disclosure of government records related to one of the most high-profile federal cases in recent memory.

Justice Department inspector general will evaluate DOJ processes for identifying, redacting and releasing Jeffrey Epstein records as required by law.

DOJ Watchdog to Review Jeffrey Epstein File Releases

Fire trucks lacking transponders and communication breakdowns caused a deadly collision at LaGuardia Airport, the National Transportation Safety Board concluded in its final report released this week.The NTSB investigators found that airport fire and rescue vehicles operated without transponders that could have triggered automatic collision warning systems. These transponders would have alerted air traffic controllers to the fire trucks' positions on active runways, potentially preventing the fatal crash.The missing safety equipment represents a critical gap in airport ground safety protocols. Most commercial aircraft and many ground service vehicles carry transponders that broadcast their location to control towers, but fire trucks at LaGuardia operated without this basic collision-avoidance technology.Air traffic controllers lost situational awareness as emergency vehicles moved across runway approaches without electronic tracking. The NTSB report suggests that automatic ground surveillance systems could have provided real-time alerts about potential collisions between aircraft and emergency vehicles.LaGuardia handles over 31 million passengers annually, making ground traffic coordination essential for safe operations. The airport's complex runway layout and heavy traffic volume create multiple opportunities for ground collisions without proper communication systems.Federal aviation safety experts have long pushed for improved ground radar and transponder requirements at major airports. The LaGuardia incident adds weight to calls for mandatory electronic tracking of all vehicles operating on airport movement areas.The NTSB's findings expose how basic communication failures can turn routine emergency responses into catastrophic events. Fire trucks responding to aircraft incidents must coordinate with multiple agencies while operating in high-stress environments where split-second decisions matter.Airport authorities and the FAA now face pressure to mandate transponder systems for all ground vehicles at commercial airports. The technology exists and costs have dropped, making universal implementation more feasible than when safety advocates first proposed the requirements.The report will likely accelerate regulatory changes requiring electronic tracking for emergency vehicles at major airports nationwide, as the FAA works to prevent similar communication breakdowns from causing future tragedies.

Fire trucks lacking transponders and communication breakdowns caused a deadly collision at LaGuardia Airport, the National Transportation Safety Board concluded in its final report released this week.

The NTSB investigators found that airport fire and rescue vehicles operated without transponders that could have triggered automatic collision warning systems. These transponders would have alerted air traffic controllers to the fire trucks' positions on active runways, potentially preventing the fatal crash.

The missing safety equipment represents a critical gap in airport ground safety protocols. Most commercial aircraft and many ground service vehicles carry transponders that broadcast their location to control towers, but fire trucks at LaGuardia operated without this basic collision-avoidance technology.

Air traffic controllers lost situational awareness as emergency vehicles moved across runway approaches without electronic tracking. The NTSB report suggests that automatic ground surveillance systems could have provided real-time alerts about potential collisions between aircraft and emergency vehicles.

LaGuardia handles over 31 million passengers annually, making ground traffic coordination essential for safe operations. The airport's complex runway layout and heavy traffic volume create multiple opportunities for ground collisions without proper communication systems.

Federal aviation safety experts have long pushed for improved ground radar and transponder requirements at major airports. The LaGuardia incident adds weight to calls for mandatory electronic tracking of all vehicles operating on airport movement areas.

The NTSB's findings expose how basic communication failures can turn routine emergency responses into catastrophic events. Fire trucks responding to aircraft incidents must coordinate with multiple agencies while operating in high-stress environments where split-second decisions matter.

Airport authorities and the FAA now face pressure to mandate transponder systems for all ground vehicles at commercial airports. The technology exists and costs have dropped, making universal implementation more feasible than when safety advocates first proposed the requirements.

The report will likely accelerate regulatory changes requiring electronic tracking for emergency vehicles at major airports nationwide, as the FAA works to prevent similar communication breakdowns from causing future tragedies.

NTSB report finds communication failures and missing transponders on fire trucks contributed to deadly LaGuardia Airport collision that killed multiple people.

LaGuardia Crash Blamed on Fire Truck Communication Failures — NTSB

FBI Director Kash Patel filed a $250 million defamation lawsuit against The Atlantic magazine and its reporter on April 23, 2026, targeting a story that detailed allegations of his mismanagement and excessive drinking while leading the bureau.The Atlantic's report documented FBI staffers' concerns that Patel &quot;frequently drinks to the point of intoxication and has been unreachable behind closed doors multiple times.&quot; The magazine reported that agents had to break down a door at least once to reach the director. Patel denies all allegations in the lawsuit, calling them &quot;demonstrably false.&quot;The $250 million demand represents a classic strategic lawsuit against public participation, or SLAPP suit — a legal tactic designed more to silence critics than win in court. Such lawsuits drain newsrooms' resources through high legal insurance deductibles that can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars per case, even when defendants ultimately prevail.Patel's move follows a pattern established throughout the Trump era, where conservative figures have weaponized defamation law against unfavorable coverage. The financial pressure alone forces news organizations to think twice before publishing critical reporting, regardless of whether the stories would survive legal scrutiny.The timing adds pressure to an FBI already facing questions about leadership stability. Federal law enforcement sources have expressed concerns about maintaining operational effectiveness while the director fights a public relations battle over his fitness for office. The bureau handles national security threats that require round-the-clock availability from its top leadership.Legal experts say Patel's case appears weak on the merits, given the high bar public figures face in proving defamation. But winning isn't necessarily the goal — bleeding The Atlantic dry through protracted litigation serves the same purpose of discouraging future critical coverage.The lawsuit names both the publication and the individual reporter as defendants, a move that maximizes financial pressure by forcing both parties to mount separate legal defenses. This dual-target approach has become standard practice in SLAPP litigation designed to intimidate journalists.Watch for The Atlantic's response filing, which will likely include an anti-SLAPP motion seeking to dismiss the case quickly and recover legal fees from Patel.

FBI Director Kash Patel filed a $250 million defamation lawsuit against The Atlantic magazine and its reporter on April 23, 2026, targeting a story that detailed allegations of his mismanagement and excessive drinking while leading the bureau.

The Atlantic's report documented FBI staffers' concerns that Patel "frequently drinks to the point of intoxication and has been unreachable behind closed doors multiple times." The magazine reported that agents had to break down a door at least once to reach the director. Patel denies all allegations in the lawsuit, calling them "demonstrably false."

The $250 million demand represents a classic strategic lawsuit against public participation, or SLAPP suit — a legal tactic designed more to silence critics than win in court. Such lawsuits drain newsrooms' resources through high legal insurance deductibles that can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars per case, even when defendants ultimately prevail.

Patel's move follows a pattern established throughout the Trump era, where conservative figures have weaponized defamation law against unfavorable coverage. The financial pressure alone forces news organizations to think twice before publishing critical reporting, regardless of whether the stories would survive legal scrutiny.

The timing adds pressure to an FBI already facing questions about leadership stability. Federal law enforcement sources have expressed concerns about maintaining operational effectiveness while the director fights a public relations battle over his fitness for office. The bureau handles national security threats that require round-the-clock availability from its top leadership.

Legal experts say Patel's case appears weak on the merits, given the high bar public figures face in proving defamation. But winning isn't necessarily the goal — bleeding The Atlantic dry through protracted litigation serves the same purpose of discouraging future critical coverage.

The lawsuit names both the publication and the individual reporter as defendants, a move that maximizes financial pressure by forcing both parties to mount separate legal defenses. This dual-target approach has become standard practice in SLAPP litigation designed to intimidate journalists.

Watch for The Atlantic's response filing, which will likely include an anti-SLAPP motion seeking to dismiss the case quickly and recover legal fees from Patel.

Kash Patel filed a $250 million defamation lawsuit against The Atlantic over reports alleging mismanagement and excessive drinking at the FBI.

FBI Director Patel Sues The Atlantic for $250M Over Drinking Reports

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth fired Navy Secretary John Phelan Wednesday night, the Pentagon announced, as U.S. naval forces continue operations in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing tensions with Iran.The Pentagon provided no immediate explanation for Phelan's dismissal. The timing comes as American warships patrol the narrow waterway that handles 20% of global oil shipments, following <a href="https://insiderwire.com/news/iran-closes-hormuz-strait-as-trumps-war-strategy-sparks-confusion">Iran's closure of the Strait</a> earlier this month.Phelan's departure marks the first major personnel shakeup in Trump's defense leadership since taking office. The Navy secretary oversees a fleet of 296 ships and 3,700 aircraft, with 347,000 active-duty sailors responsible for maintaining freedom of navigation in critical maritime chokepoints worldwide.The dismissal occurs as <a href="https://insiderwire.com/news/iran-regime-survives-war-despite-500m-daily-losses-trump-extends-ceasefire">Trump extends the Iran ceasefire</a> while U.S. forces remain on high alert in the Persian Gulf. Iran's Revolutionary Guard has repeatedly threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz during previous confrontations, a move that would immediately spike global energy prices and disrupt supply chains.CBS News senior correspondent Ed O'Keefe first reported the firing, which was announced without the typical transition timeline or replacement nominee. Such abrupt dismissals are rare for service secretaries, who typically serve multi-year terms spanning different administrations.The Navy faces mounting challenges beyond the Iran standoff. The service is struggling to meet its shipbuilding targets while confronting maintenance backlogs that keep vessels in port longer than planned. China's naval expansion in the South China Sea has also increased pressure on U.S. Pacific Fleet operations.Congressional defense hawks will likely demand answers about the leadership change during upcoming budget hearings. The House Armed Services Committee has scheduled multiple Navy oversight sessions for next month, where Hegseth may face questions about his personnel decisions.The Pentagon has not announced an interim Navy secretary or timeline for nominating Phelan's permanent replacement, leaving uncertainty at the service's highest civilian position during a period of heightened Middle East tensions.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth fired Navy Secretary John Phelan Wednesday night, the Pentagon announced, as U.S. naval forces continue operations in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing tensions with Iran.

The Pentagon provided no immediate explanation for Phelan's dismissal. The timing comes as American warships patrol the narrow waterway that handles 20% of global oil shipments, following Iran's closure of the Strait earlier this month.

Phelan's departure marks the first major personnel shakeup in Trump's defense leadership since taking office. The Navy secretary oversees a fleet of 296 ships and 3,700 aircraft, with 347,000 active-duty sailors responsible for maintaining freedom of navigation in critical maritime chokepoints worldwide.

The dismissal occurs as Trump extends the Iran ceasefire while U.S. forces remain on high alert in the Persian Gulf. Iran's Revolutionary Guard has repeatedly threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz during previous confrontations, a move that would immediately spike global energy prices and disrupt supply chains.

CBS News senior correspondent Ed O'Keefe first reported the firing, which was announced without the typical transition timeline or replacement nominee. Such abrupt dismissals are rare for service secretaries, who typically serve multi-year terms spanning different administrations.

The Navy faces mounting challenges beyond the Iran standoff. The service is struggling to meet its shipbuilding targets while confronting maintenance backlogs that keep vessels in port longer than planned. China's naval expansion in the South China Sea has also increased pressure on U.S. Pacific Fleet operations.

Congressional defense hawks will likely demand answers about the leadership change during upcoming budget hearings. The House Armed Services Committee has scheduled multiple Navy oversight sessions for next month, where Hegseth may face questions about his personnel decisions.

The Pentagon has not announced an interim Navy secretary or timeline for nominating Phelan's permanent replacement, leaving uncertainty at the service's highest civilian position during a period of heightened Middle East tensions.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth dismissed Navy Secretary John Phelan Wednesday night as U.S. forces maintain presence in Strait of Hormuz during Iran tensions.

Pentagon Fires Navy Secretary Phelan Amid Iran Crisis

Florida authorities arrested Christopher Gillum of Chapel Hill, North Carolina on Wednesday night as he traveled toward New Orleans to carry out a mass shooting at a festival, then die by &quot;suicide by cop,&quot; according to police reports.Law enforcement tracked Gillum to Destin, Florida, where officers found a handgun and 200 rounds of ammunition in his hotel room. Orleans Parish had issued a warrant for Gillum on charges of making terroristic threats.The arrest represents a successful example of multi-state law enforcement coordination preventing what could have been a devastating attack on American civilians. Gillum's plan followed the increasingly common pattern of mass shooters who seek to maximize casualties before forcing police to kill them.Okaloosa County Jail is holding Gillum as a fugitive from justice pending extradition to Louisiana, where he will face charges related to the alleged plot. The swift arrest came after authorities tracked his movements across state lines.Police have not disclosed which specific New Orleans festival Gillum allegedly targeted or revealed any motive behind the planned attack. New Orleans hosts numerous festivals throughout the year that draw large crowds of tourists and locals, making them potential soft targets for would-be attackers.The case highlights the ongoing threat of lone-wolf attackers who plan mass casualty events at public gatherings. Federal and state agencies have increased monitoring of such threats, particularly around large public events that present security challenges.Gillum now faces extradition proceedings before answering charges in Louisiana courts, where prosecutors will determine the full scope of charges related to his alleged plot.

Florida authorities arrested Christopher Gillum of Chapel Hill, North Carolina on Wednesday night as he traveled toward New Orleans to carry out a mass shooting at a festival, then die by "suicide by cop," according to police reports.

Law enforcement tracked Gillum to Destin, Florida, where officers found a handgun and 200 rounds of ammunition in his hotel room. Orleans Parish had issued a warrant for Gillum on charges of making terroristic threats.

The arrest represents a successful example of multi-state law enforcement coordination preventing what could have been a devastating attack on American civilians. Gillum's plan followed the increasingly common pattern of mass shooters who seek to maximize casualties before forcing police to kill them.

Okaloosa County Jail is holding Gillum as a fugitive from justice pending extradition to Louisiana, where he will face charges related to the alleged plot. The swift arrest came after authorities tracked his movements across state lines.

Police have not disclosed which specific New Orleans festival Gillum allegedly targeted or revealed any motive behind the planned attack. New Orleans hosts numerous festivals throughout the year that draw large crowds of tourists and locals, making them potential soft targets for would-be attackers.

The case highlights the ongoing threat of lone-wolf attackers who plan mass casualty events at public gatherings. Federal and state agencies have increased monitoring of such threats, particularly around large public events that present security challenges.

Gillum now faces extradition proceedings before answering charges in Louisiana courts, where prosecutors will determine the full scope of charges related to his alleged plot.

Christopher Gillum of Chapel Hill, NC was arrested in Destin, Florida with a handgun and 200 rounds while allegedly planning a mass shooting at a New Orleans fe

Chapel Hill Man Arrested in Florida En Route to New Orleans Festival Attack

Christopher Gillum of Chapel Hill, NC was arrested in Destin, Florida with a handgun and 200 rounds while allegedly planning a mass shooting at a New Orleans festival.

Senate Republicans passed a budget resolution early Thursday morning that paves the way for $140 billion in funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection through the remainder of Trump's presidency. The 50-48 vote broke largely along party lines as the Department of Homeland Security shutdown enters its second month.The budget resolution allows Republicans to bypass a Democratic filibuster through the reconciliation process. All Democrats voted against the measure, joined by Republican Senators Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Rand Paul of Kentucky. ICE and CBP have operated without funding since mid-February when the DHS shutdown began.&quot;We have a multi-step process ahead of us, but at the end Republicans will have helped ensure that America's borders are secure and prevented Democrats from defunding these important agencies,&quot; Senate Majority Leader John Thune said after the vote.Democratic opposition hardened after federal agents killed two U.S. citizens during immigration operations in Minneapolis in January. Democrats spent weeks negotiating with the Trump administration on reforms including banning masked federal agents and requiring warrants for detentions, but those talks collapsed.The resolution now moves to the House of Representatives, where Speaker Mike Johnson must navigate a complex sequencing strategy. Johnson said he will hold a separate vote on funding the rest of DHS operations—excluding ICE and CBP—only after the reconciliation bill advances.&quot;Sequencing is important. We have to make sure we don't isolate and make an orphan out of key agencies of the department,&quot; Johnson told reporters Tuesday. The Senate already passed bipartisan legislation last month to fund other DHS operations.Federal immigration enforcement continues despite the funding lapse, as <a href="https://insiderwire.com/news/senate-gop-adopts-140b-budget-blueprint-for-ice-border-patrol-through-2028">Insider Wire previously reported</a> on Republican efforts to secure long-term border security funding. Immigration agents detained individuals in Chicago's Little Village neighborhood this week, showing operations remain active during the shutdown.The $140 billion allocation represents a massive increase in immigration enforcement spending, designed to support Trump's mass deportation agenda. Republicans argue the funding ensures border security while Democrats contend it enables unchecked federal power without proper oversight mechanisms.House Judiciary and Homeland Security committees will now craft the actual legislation to unlock the funding once both chambers approve the budget framework. The complex parliamentary procedure could take weeks to complete, extending the partial DHS shutdown that has left thousands of federal employees without pay.

Senate Republicans passed a budget resolution early Thursday morning that paves the way for $140 billion in funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection through the remainder of Trump's presidency. The 50-48 vote broke largely along party lines as the Department of Homeland Security shutdown enters its second month.

The budget resolution allows Republicans to bypass a Democratic filibuster through the reconciliation process. All Democrats voted against the measure, joined by Republican Senators Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Rand Paul of Kentucky. ICE and CBP have operated without funding since mid-February when the DHS shutdown began.

"We have a multi-step process ahead of us, but at the end Republicans will have helped ensure that America's borders are secure and prevented Democrats from defunding these important agencies," Senate Majority Leader John Thune said after the vote.

Democratic opposition hardened after federal agents killed two U.S. citizens during immigration operations in Minneapolis in January. Democrats spent weeks negotiating with the Trump administration on reforms including banning masked federal agents and requiring warrants for detentions, but those talks collapsed.

The resolution now moves to the House of Representatives, where Speaker Mike Johnson must navigate a complex sequencing strategy. Johnson said he will hold a separate vote on funding the rest of DHS operations—excluding ICE and CBP—only after the reconciliation bill advances.

"Sequencing is important. We have to make sure we don't isolate and make an orphan out of key agencies of the department," Johnson told reporters Tuesday. The Senate already passed bipartisan legislation last month to fund other DHS operations.

Federal immigration enforcement continues despite the funding lapse, as Insider Wire previously reported on Republican efforts to secure long-term border security funding. Immigration agents detained individuals in Chicago's Little Village neighborhood this week, showing operations remain active during the shutdown.

The $140 billion allocation represents a massive increase in immigration enforcement spending, designed to support Trump's mass deportation agenda. Republicans argue the funding ensures border security while Democrats contend it enables unchecked federal power without proper oversight mechanisms.

House Judiciary and Homeland Security committees will now craft the actual legislation to unlock the funding once both chambers approve the budget framework. The complex parliamentary procedure could take weeks to complete, extending the partial DHS shutdown that has left thousands of federal employees without pay.

Senate Republicans approved a budget resolution 50-48 to fund ICE and CBP through Trump's term as Democrats oppose and DHS shutdown continues.

Senate GOP Pushes $140B Immigration Bill Forward Despite DHS Shutdown

Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz on April 23, 2026, following President Trump's extension of a temporary ceasefire that critics say reflects America's incoherent Middle East strategy. The closure of the world's most critical oil shipping lane came as Trump's contradictory approach to Iran diplomacy intensified regional instability.Trump's recent threats to &quot;blow up the whole country, including its bridges and power plants&quot; while simultaneously promising a &quot;great deal&quot; with Tehran have left allies and adversaries alike questioning American objectives. The president has branded potential war crimes as diplomatic tools, turning destruction into leverage rather than pursuing clear strategic goals.The administration's justification for <a href="https://insiderwire.com/news/trump-extends-iran-ceasefire">extending the ceasefire</a> centers on alleged &quot;internal divisions&quot; within Iran's government. Yet Trump's own policy shifts from moment to moment, with the president's focus seemingly driven more by outdoing Barack Obama's nuclear agreement than addressing current threats to American interests.Trump's promise that his eventual deal will be &quot;far better&quot; than Obama's decade-old agreement reflects what analysts describe as policy-making through personal rivalry rather than national security priorities. His inflated predictions of an imminent breakthrough appear disconnected from ground realities, including Iran's continued missile capabilities and regional proxy operations.The Hormuz closure directly threatens American economic interests, as roughly 20 percent of global oil passes through the narrow waterway. With <a href="https://insiderwire.com/news/us-forces-guard-hormuz-strait">U.S. forces already guarding</a> the strait, the standoff raises risks of direct military confrontation while oil markets brace for supply disruptions.Iranian protesters gathered at Tehran's Enqelab Square on April 12, 2026, demonstrating against both the United States and Israel as regional tensions escalated. The protests underscore how Trump's approach has failed to isolate Iran's hardline regime or reduce anti-American sentiment in the region.The president's performative optimism about negotiations contrasts sharply with his simultaneous military threats, suggesting what foreign policy experts describe as desperation rather than confidence. His tendency to negotiate with himself while constructing narratives of success regardless of facts has left American allies uncertain about Washington's actual objectives.The closure represents a direct challenge to American power projection in the Persian Gulf, where decades of U.S. naval presence have kept energy supplies flowing to global markets. Iran's move tests whether Trump's mixed signals of aggression and diplomacy can maintain regional stability or will push toward broader conflict.Congressional Republicans have blocked multiple Democratic attempts to end military operations against Iran, while the administration faces a 60-day deadline for war authorization. The Hormuz shutdown adds pressure on lawmakers to clarify America's military commitments in the region.

Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz on April 23, 2026, following President Trump's extension of a temporary ceasefire that critics say reflects America's incoherent Middle East strategy. The closure of the world's most critical oil shipping lane came as Trump's contradictory approach to Iran diplomacy intensified regional instability.

Trump's recent threats to "blow up the whole country, including its bridges and power plants" while simultaneously promising a "great deal" with Tehran have left allies and adversaries alike questioning American objectives. The president has branded potential war crimes as diplomatic tools, turning destruction into leverage rather than pursuing clear strategic goals.

The administration's justification for extending the ceasefire centers on alleged "internal divisions" within Iran's government. Yet Trump's own policy shifts from moment to moment, with the president's focus seemingly driven more by outdoing Barack Obama's nuclear agreement than addressing current threats to American interests.

Trump's promise that his eventual deal will be "far better" than Obama's decade-old agreement reflects what analysts describe as policy-making through personal rivalry rather than national security priorities. His inflated predictions of an imminent breakthrough appear disconnected from ground realities, including Iran's continued missile capabilities and regional proxy operations.

The Hormuz closure directly threatens American economic interests, as roughly 20 percent of global oil passes through the narrow waterway. With U.S. forces already guarding the strait, the standoff raises risks of direct military confrontation while oil markets brace for supply disruptions.

Iranian protesters gathered at Tehran's Enqelab Square on April 12, 2026, demonstrating against both the United States and Israel as regional tensions escalated. The protests underscore how Trump's approach has failed to isolate Iran's hardline regime or reduce anti-American sentiment in the region.

The president's performative optimism about negotiations contrasts sharply with his simultaneous military threats, suggesting what foreign policy experts describe as desperation rather than confidence. His tendency to negotiate with himself while constructing narratives of success regardless of facts has left American allies uncertain about Washington's actual objectives.

The closure represents a direct challenge to American power projection in the Persian Gulf, where decades of U.S. naval presence have kept energy supplies flowing to global markets. Iran's move tests whether Trump's mixed signals of aggression and diplomacy can maintain regional stability or will push toward broader conflict.

Congressional Republicans have blocked multiple Democratic attempts to end military operations against Iran, while the administration faces a 60-day deadline for war authorization. The Hormuz shutdown adds pressure on lawmakers to clarify America's military commitments in the region.

Iran shut down the Strait of Hormuz following Trump's ceasefire extension, as the president's shifting positions and threats deepen Middle East tensions.