US News

Top US counterterrorism official resigns over Iran war, urging Trump to 'reverse course'

March 17, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

Joe Kent, the top U.S. counterterrorism official, resigned over disagreements about the Iran war, urging President Trump to reconsider his actions. In his resignation letter, Kent stated that Iran was not an immediate threat to the U.S. and claimed the war started due to pressure from Israel. The White House, however, maintained that there was strong evidence Iran planned to attack first.

Key Facts

Joe Kent resigned as the National Counterterrorism Center Director.
Kent's resignation was due to the U.S. war in Iran, which he opposed.
Kent argued that Iran did not pose an immediate threat to the U.S.
He claimed the war began due to pressure from Israel and U.S. influencers.
President Trump disagreed with Kent's assessment, saying the threat from Iran was real.
Kent is a veteran with a long history in U.S. military and intelligence services.
The White House dismissed Kent's claims and supported Trump's decision-making with evidence.

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Judge blocks RFK Jr's changes to US childhood vaccine schedule

March 17, 2026 • BBC US

Summary

A federal judge blocked US Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr’s changes to the childhood vaccine schedule, siding with medical groups that argued these changes violated federal law. The ruling also suspended Kennedy's appointments to a key advisory vaccine panel, and a scheduled meeting was postponed. The Trump administration plans to appeal the decision.

Key Facts

A judge stopped changes to the US childhood vaccine schedule made by Robert F Kennedy Jr.
Kennedy’s changes reduced recommended vaccines for children from 17 to 11.
Medical groups, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, sued, claiming these changes broke federal law.
Judge Brian Murphy halted Kennedy’s choice of vaccine-skeptic members for an advisory panel.
The decision postpones a planned meeting of the Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices.
The Trump administration intends to challenge the judge’s ruling.
Kennedy was known for opposing vaccines before his role in the Trump administration.
Medical associations support the judge’s decision as protective of children’s health.

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BBC US

WATCH LIVE: Postmaster General Steiner testifies at House hearing on financial future of USPS

March 17, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Postmaster General David Steiner has told Congress that the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) may run out of money within a year unless it is allowed to borrow more funds. If not resolved, USPS might be unable to pay its staff or suppliers by February 2027, which could affect mail delivery.

Key Facts

The U.S. Postal Service is facing a financial crisis.
Postmaster General David Steiner is asking Congress to lift a borrowing cap.
The Postal Service might run out of cash within one year.
If Congress does not act, USPS may not pay employees or suppliers by February 2027.
Potential payment issues could harm mail delivery services.
Steiner discussed these concerns in an interview on March 4.

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PBS NewsHour

Exclusive: Gallego presses DOE on oil reserve as gas prices rise

March 17, 2026 • Axios

Summary

Senator Ruben Gallego is asking the U.S. Energy Department about its plan to release oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve due to rising gas prices. The plan includes releasing millions of barrels of oil to stabilize prices and supply, particularly in Arizona. The situation ties into broader political concerns about energy and the Iran conflict.

Key Facts

Senator Ruben Gallego is from Arizona and may run for president in 2028.
He has written to the Energy Department seeking details on oil release plans from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.
U.S. plans to release 172 million barrels from its reserves as part of a larger international effort of 400 million barrels.
The oil release will be an "exchange," where companies return oil with an extra amount as a premium.
The Energy Department says this plan aims to stabilize oil markets without costing taxpayers.
Gas prices have increased by over 70 cents per gallon on average since the Iran conflict began.
President Trump has indicated that U.S. gas prices will decrease when the Iran conflict ends.

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Axios

WATCH LIVE: Dr. Jay Bhattacharya testifies at NIH oversight hearing before House panel

March 17, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, the director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is testifying in front of the House Appropriations Committee. The hearing involves discussions about past funding cuts to research during President Trump's administration and their impacts on various health studies.

Key Facts

Dr. Jay Bhattacharya is testifying at a House oversight hearing.
The hearing is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. EDT.
The focus is on funding cuts made by the NIH under President Trump's administration.
The cuts affected more than 74,000 participants in research studies.
The studies included research on illnesses like cancer, heart disease, and COVID-19.
Bhattacharya is also acting director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

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PBS NewsHour

US National Counterterrorism Center director Joe Kent resigns over Iran war

March 17, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Joe Kent, the director of the US National Counterterrorism Center, resigned because he disagreed with the war against Iran. He announced his resignation through a letter where he stated he could not support the war and highlighted his concerns about its origins. President Donald Trump dismissed the resignation, criticizing Kent's views on Iran.

Key Facts

Joe Kent resigned from his role as director of the US National Counterterrorism Center.
He published a resignation letter on X, stating the war with Iran did not have his support.
President Trump commented that he viewed Kent as weak on security.
Kent's resignation is the highest-profile departure since the US actions against Iran began.
The war started with US and Israeli attacks on Iran on February 28.
Kent's letter mentioned the war's initiation due to pressure from Israel and American lobbying.
There have been 13 US soldier casualties since the conflict began.
Kent served 11 combat deployments in the Middle East and lost his wife in a bombing in Syria.

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Al Jazeera

WATCH LIVE: Senate begins consideration of SAVE America Act

March 17, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

The U.S. Senate is considering the SAVE America Act, which requires new voters to show proof of U.S. citizenship and identification at the polls. President Trump supports the bill, saying it will help his party in the upcoming elections.

Key Facts

The SAVE America Act demands proof of citizenship for new voters.
The bill also requires voters to show identification at voting stations.
Federal law already states that voters in national elections must be U.S. citizens.
The Senate could start discussing the bill as soon as Tuesday.
President Trump believes the bill will help the Republican Party in midterm elections.
Supporters say it will give the federal government more control over elections.
Critics are concerned about how the bill might change voting processes.

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PBS NewsHour

US west coast prepares for 'dangerous' heatwave in early spring

March 17, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

The US west coast is experiencing an unusually early heatwave, with temperatures expected to exceed 100°F in some areas. This heatwave is caused by a strong high-pressure system, affecting millions of people across California, Nevada, and Arizona. Officials have issued heat advisories, warning of health risks and potential impacts on California's water supply and wildfire season.

Key Facts

Temperatures in Phoenix, Arizona, could reach over 100°F, the earliest in nearly 40 years.
A heat dome is trapping hot air, causing temperatures 20-30°F above normal.
The heatwave may last several days, with limited cooling at night.
Heat advisories are in place for parts of California, including the Bay Area.
The heat could speed up snowmelt in California’s Sierra Nevada, risking summer water shortages.
Wildfire risk could increase due to early snowmelt and dry conditions.
Conditions further east may be more conducive to wildfires because of dry air and steady winds.
High temperatures are set to extend across much of the US by the end of the week.

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ICE Could Be Barred From Entering Your Home

March 17, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A Democratic congressman has proposed a new law to stop federal immigration agents from entering homes without a judge's warrant. This bill comes after reports of agents using administrative warrants to enter homes for immigration arrests. The proposal aims to change the current practices and address concerns about civil liberties.

Key Facts

Congressman Vicente Gonzalez from Texas introduced the "Say No to Warrantless Searches Act."
The bill requires immigration agents to have a judicial warrant to enter private homes.
Currently, agents can use administrative warrants, which are not signed by a judge, to enter homes.
An internal memo from May 2025 allows agents to use administrative warrants for entering homes.
There are reports of agents entering homes in Texas and Minnesota without judicial warrants.
A family in Donna, Texas, has sued ICE after agents reportedly entered their home and made arrests.
Congressman Gonzalez argues that warrantless searches violate the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches.
The proposed legislation seeks to prevent unauthorized home entries by immigration agents.

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Newsweek

Single Woman Moves Into Apartment—Not Ready For How She Becomes 'A Target'

March 17, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A woman moving into a new apartment found a threatening note on her car after a parking dispute. She contacted property management and the police, and management promised to resolve the issue by ending the lease of the person responsible. The woman plans to avoid the parking spot until the issue is completely resolved.

Key Facts

A woman moved into a new apartment complex on March 1 and received a specific garage parking space.
The first night, someone else had parked in her designated space.
After reporting it to management, they resolved the issue after several follow-ups.
A note threatening to slash her tires appeared on her car after she parked in her spot.
The woman contacted management and filed a police report about the threat.
Management said the person responsible would have their lease terminated.
Security footage from the garage will be given to the police.
The woman plans to park elsewhere until reassured of her safety.

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Newsweek

Iran Destroyed the Trump-Vance Bromance | Opinion

March 17, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

President Donald Trump acknowledged that Vice President JD Vance was less supportive of recent U.S. military actions against Iran. Vance carefully positioned himself by not fully endorsing the conflict, aligning subtly with voices critical of U.S. interventions, such as Tucker Carlson.

Key Facts

President Donald Trump mentioned Vice President JD Vance had reservations about the Iran strikes.
Trump described Vance as "philosophically a little bit different" on war matters.
The MAGA coalition has two factions: one favoring military strength, the other skeptical about new conflicts.
Tucker Carlson is a prominent voice opposing intervention in Iran, suggesting it repeats past U.S. strategic mistakes.
Some Trump allies criticized Carlson for opposing the strikes, but Vance did not publicly distance himself from Carlson.
Vance praised a recent interview by Carlson, showing alignment with his views.
Vance's positioning suggests a strategic move within internal Republican debates on foreign policy.

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Newsweek

Map Shows Airports Without Longer TSA Wait Times Because of Shutdown

March 17, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

During a federal government shutdown, most U.S. airports with federal TSA employees experience longer security lines due to staffing issues. However, 18 airports using private screening companies continue operating smoothly because their workers are not affected by the shutdown.

Key Facts

Most U.S. airports have TSA officers who are federal employees.
During a shutdown, federal TSA employees must work without pay, causing staff shortages.
The Screening Partnership Program (SPP) allows airports to use private screeners.
Airports in the SPP have screeners paid through pre-funded contracts, avoiding shutdown-related issues.
As of early 2026, about 20 U.S. airports are in the SPP.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is the largest airport using private screeners.
Other participating airports include Kansas City International Airport (MCI) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB).
Travelers can check TSA wait times using the MyTSA mobile app.

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Newsweek

Former Presidents Deny Donald Trump’s Iran Claim

March 17, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Every living former U.S. president has denied President Donald Trump’s claim that one of them supports his actions in Iran. President Trump mentioned he spoke with a former president who expressed regret for not acting in the same way, but he didn’t specify who. Representatives for Joe Biden, Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush have all said this conversation did not happen.

Key Facts

President Donald Trump said a former U.S. president supports his actions in Iran.
Trump did not name which former president he spoke to.
He mentioned he didn't want to embarrass the former president by revealing their identity.
Representatives for former Presidents Biden, Obama, Clinton, and George W. Bush denied Trump's claim.
The information comes from the Associated Press (AP).
The story is ongoing and more updates are expected.

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Newsweek

Georgia Approves Tax Rebates of $500

March 17, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Georgia lawmakers passed a bill to give state residents a one-time tax rebate of up to $500. The bill is now waiting for Governor Brian Kemp to sign it.

Key Facts

Georgia's state Senate approved a tax rebate with a 53-0 vote.
The bill is called House Bill 1000.
Single tax filers in Georgia will get $250.
Heads of households will receive $375.
Married couples filing jointly will receive $500.
Governor Brian Kemp supports the bill and needs to sign it for it to become law.
The rebates apply to 2024 or 2025 income taxes.

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Newsweek

SNAP Benefit Update: Judge Says Trump Admin Move Violates Constitution

March 17, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A federal judge stopped a plan by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to make people in Colorado reapply for SNAP benefits under a new initiative. The judge said this plan broke federal laws and the Constitution and could harm people relying on these benefits.

Key Facts

A federal judge blocked an order from the USDA regarding SNAP benefits in Colorado.
The judge said the USDA's plan violated federal law and the Constitution.
The USDA wanted Colorado to adopt a SNAP recertification trial project.
The plan would have required 106,500 households in five counties to reapply in 30 days.
Colorado typically renews SNAP benefits every six months, more often than the required 12 months.
The initiative could have led to households losing benefits and millions in funding being withheld if Colorado didn't comply.
The judge argued that the Agriculture Secretary didn't have the power to enforce this pilot project.

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Newsweek

Vance vs. Rubio Succession Fight Could Cost Republicans the White House

March 17, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

There is growing speculation about who will lead the Republican Party in the 2028 presidential race. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are seen as the most likely candidates. President Trump suggested both could run together, but it remains unclear if either will enter the race.

Key Facts

JD Vance and Marco Rubio are seen as likely GOP contenders for the 2028 presidential race.
President Donald Trump suggested Vance and Rubio could run on the same ticket.
JD Vance has strong support among Trump’s base, known as MAGA supporters.
Rubio ruled out running if Vance enters, but he is gaining support in polls.
Vance is known for his Appalachian roots and as a critic of the elite.
Vance advocates for policies supporting Midwest industries and opposes abortion.
Rubio has been active in the Trump administration, building his political image.
A group of Republican donors is reportedly considering backing a Rubio run.

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Newsweek

Axios-Ipsos poll: Americans distrust Trump vaccine policies

March 17, 2026 • Axios

Summary

A recent Axios-Ipsos poll indicates that only 60% of Americans trust the government's vaccination recommendations for children, reflecting a decline in trust linked to policies under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The same poll reveals that Americans trust pediatricians more than government health agencies for medical advice, and there is widespread dissatisfaction with the health care system and rising medical costs.

Key Facts

60% of Americans trust the government's vaccination recommendations for children.
Trust in the child vaccination schedule dropped from 71% to 60% since last June.
A federal judge blocked Health Secretary Kennedy from implementing key vaccine policy changes.
35% of Americans trust the American Academy of Pediatrics more than the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
70% express little or no trust in health information from Health Secretary Kennedy.
68% report little or no trust in health information from surgeon general nominee Casey Means.
Americans largely agree on dissatisfaction with the health care system and rising medical costs.
Nearly 7-to-1 respondents favor government spending to reduce health care costs.

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Axios

Trump ramps up press pressure over Iran war coverage

March 17, 2026 • Axios

Summary

The Trump administration has increased pressure on the media over coverage of the war with Iran, threatening regulatory actions. The administration has taken steps to limit journalist access to information and control war messaging. This has led to criticism regarding press freedoms in the United States.

Key Facts

President Trump and his administration are concerned about how the media covers the war in Iran.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has threatened to revoke broadcast licenses if coverage doesn't meet certain standards.
Access to key Defense Department briefings has been restricted for some journalists.
The Pentagon has controlled content in the military newspaper Stars and Stripes.
The administration's efforts to influence media messaging have drawn historical comparisons to past wartime measures.
Critics argue these actions threaten press freedom, a cornerstone of U.S. democracy.
Government-funded media targeting Iran has experienced internal conflict over messaging choices.
Regulatory threats focus on maintaining FCC approval, impacting broadcasting operations.

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Axios

Some US Kids Are Falling Behind in Reading—the Warning Signs Are Subtle

March 17, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

New data shows that many young children in the U.S. are struggling with reading, especially first and second-graders, whose scores haven't returned to pre-pandemic levels. Experts suggest that parents should look out for signs like children guessing words instead of sounding them out, as these might indicate reading difficulties. Parents are encouraged to work with teachers to address these issues early and consider written requests for assessments if progress is not visible over time.

Key Facts

A report from NWEA found that many young children in the U.S. are lagging in reading skills.
First and second-grade reading scores are still below pre-pandemic levels.
Reading involves two main skills: word recognition and language comprehension.
Struggling with word recognition can lead children to guess words instead of decoding them.
Children who started school during the pandemic may face inconsistent reading progress.
By second grade, most children should read simple chapter books fluently.
Parents can support reading at home by focusing on sounding-out practices and reading aloud.
If reading issues persist, written communication with teachers is advised to discuss potential support or assessment for reading disabilities.

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Newsweek

Mothers 'Terrified' as Children Could Lose Treatments After FDA Denials

March 17, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Parents are worried after the FDA rejected some treatments for rare diseases, which affects many children. The FDA insists that thorough evidence is needed before approving treatments to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Key Facts

The FDA has denied approval of certain treatments for rare diseases, causing concern among parents.
Many parents of children with rare diseases fear losing access to necessary treatments.
Rare diseases affect about 30 million Americans, with many impacted individuals being children.
The FDA says it requires strong data from well-controlled trials to approve treatments safely.
The FDA has introduced reforms to speed up innovation in rare disease treatments.
Since January 2025, the FDA issued 23 complete response letters, indicating refusals or delays in drug approvals.
Senator Ron Johnson plans to investigate the FDA's actions regarding rare disease treatment approvals.
PGA golfer Akshay Bhatia dedicated his tournament win to his niece who had a rare disease and passed away.

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Newsweek

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