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‘What they’re doing qualifies as torture’: new details of ICE force-feeding revealed

‘What they’re doing qualifies as torture’: new details of ICE force-feeding revealed

August 05, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Since President Donald Trump returned to office in January 2025, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has force-fed at least three detained immigrants who were on hunger strikes protesting detention conditions. The force-feeding process involves inserting tubes to give nutrition against prisoners’ will and has been criticized by human rights groups as a form of torture.

Key Facts

  • ICE tried to force-feed at least 10 hunger strikers in detention centers since January 2025.
  • At least three detainees were force-fed; others were threatened with force-feeding.
  • One Afghan man was force-fed daily for nearly six months in Texas detention centers.
  • A Ukrainian detainee with mental health problems had his force-feeding stopped by his attorney.
  • A Saudi woman on hunger strike was hospitalized and ended her strike before force-feeding started.
  • Force-feeding involves restraining prisoners and inserting tubes through the nose to deliver liquid nutrition.
  • ICE obtains quick court orders to carry out force-feeding, often without detainees having legal help.
  • Human rights groups and medical experts consider force-feeding hunger strikers to be a cruel, harmful practice viewed as torture.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Let’s call Trump’s approach to Iran what it is: kindergarten diplomacy | Moustafa Bayoumi

Let’s call Trump’s approach to Iran what it is: kindergarten diplomacy | Moustafa Bayoumi

August 05, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened large military attacks against Iran but has quickly withdrawn these threats. This pattern of making strong statements followed by backing down has continued amid ongoing tensions between the US and Iran.

Key Facts

  • On 23 July, President Trump said Iran had not felt "enough pain" and threatened a massive attack but canceled it four days later.
  • On 31 July, Trump again threatened to strike Iran hard, then reversed his position the next day.
  • US and Israel began a conflict with Iran on 28 February, escalating tensions.
  • In March and April, Trump made severe threats against Iran's power plants and civilization but withdrew them shortly after.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu influenced Trump toward a hard stance on Iran and presented three options: negotiation, blockade, or a major strike.
  • Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince called Trump to encourage de-escalation, which led to Trump backing down again.
  • Analysts suggest Trump's approach shows indecision and a desire to please powerful allies rather than a clear strategy.
  • The US administration faces internal disagreements about how to handle Iran, including among Trump’s closest advisers.
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Guardian US
RFK Jr has a new cooking show. Are any Trump officials doing their actual jobs? | Arwa Mahdawi

RFK Jr has a new cooking show. Are any Trump officials doing their actual jobs? | Arwa Mahdawi

August 05, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is dealing with multiple health problems in the country, including a foodborne illness outbreak and a measles resurgence. Despite these issues, he has started a new cooking show on YouTube to teach people how to make healthy meals. Other Trump officials, like Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, have also been involved in TV projects while managing government duties.

Key Facts

  • There is a cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce, causing some severe illnesses and two confirmed deaths in Michigan.
  • The US is experiencing the worst measles outbreak since 1991, partly blamed on vaccine opposition including from Kennedy.
  • New York officials warn about a rare tick-borne disease called tularemia or rabbit fever.
  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the health secretary, has launched a cooking show on YouTube called The Real Food Show.
  • Kennedy is known for unusual personal habits, including eating exotic or raw foods.
  • Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy spent seven months filming a reality TV show despite crises at his department.
  • Duffy’s show was sponsored by companies that his department regulates, like Boeing and Shell.
  • The article suggests some Trump officials prefer media appearances to focusing fully on their government work.
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Guardian US
Nolan Wells went to an island with friends and never came home. His death has renewed debate over race and justice in Mississippi

Nolan Wells went to an island with friends and never came home. His death has renewed debate over race and justice in Mississippi

August 05, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

Nolan Xavier Wells, an 18-year-old Black college student from Mississippi, went missing after a Fourth of July trip to Horn Island with friends and was found dead two days later. His death has raised concerns about race, justice, and the handling of the investigation by local authorities.

Key Facts

  • Nolan Wells was last seen alive on July 4th during a boat trip to Horn Island with three white friends.
  • Wells never returned home, and his body was found on the island on July 6th.
  • His mother reported him missing and actively searched for him, tracking his cellphone to a friend’s house.
  • Snapchat photos and messages from Wells on the day of his disappearance were deleted.
  • Wells’s legal team has requested data from multiple social media platforms and GPS tracking apps.
  • One of Wells’s boat companions is the stepson of a local judge, which has caused public suspicion.
  • The judge’s family denies any wrongdoing and says they are cooperating with the investigation.
  • Both the state and an independent team conducted autopsies, but the state’s results have not been made public yet.
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Guardian US
Senate GOP scrambles for August exit strategy that doesn’t anger Trump

Senate GOP scrambles for August exit strategy that doesn’t anger Trump

August 05, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Senate Republicans are trying to find a way to leave Washington for their August break without upsetting President Trump. President Trump wants them to stay longer to pass two important bills, but those bills are unlikely to pass.

Key Facts

  • Senate Republicans want to take a five-week break in August.
  • President Trump has asked them to stay in Washington instead of leaving.
  • He wants them to pass a plan called the reconciliation blueprint.
  • He also wants them to pass part of the SAVE America Act, which focuses on voting laws.
  • Both the reconciliation plan and the SAVE America Act have low chances of getting approved.
  • GOP senators are trying to balance their break plans with keeping President Trump satisfied.
  • The situation shows tension between Senate Republicans and the President.
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The Hill
The Memo: Lincoln Pool furor reflects tensions of Trump’s second term

The Memo: Lincoln Pool furor reflects tensions of Trump’s second term

August 05, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

There is a strong public reaction related to President Donald Trump and the Reflecting Pool at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. This situation reflects broader political tensions during President Trump’s second term.

Key Facts

  • The Reflecting Pool is located at the Lincoln Memorial.
  • The pool measures about 2,030 feet in length and nearly 170 feet in width.
  • Current events involving President Trump have brought attention to the pool.
  • The controversy around the pool symbolizes larger political disagreements.
  • This issue is happening during President Trump’s second term in office.
  • The Reflecting Pool is a well-known landmark in the U.S. capital.
  • Discussions about the pool highlight deeper national political divides.
  • The news focuses on U.S. domestic affairs related to the presidency and national symbols.
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The Hill
Kids safety advocates seek age verification win as larger reforms stall

Kids safety advocates seek age verification win as larger reforms stall

August 05, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

A Senate committee will discuss several bills about children’s safety on the internet, including the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA). Supporters of these bills want to add age checks online to protect children, but the laws face challenges in Congress.

Key Facts

  • A Senate panel plans to review bills aimed at improving kids’ safety online.
  • The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) is one of the main bills being discussed.
  • The bills include proposals for digital age verification to confirm users’ ages.
  • Age verification means checking if someone is old enough to use certain websites or apps.
  • The bills face difficulties getting passed because the topic is controversial.
  • Advocates believe age verification could help protect children from harmful online content.
  • Larger reforms to internet safety laws are currently stalled or moving slowly.
  • The discussion may shape what rules tech companies must follow to protect young users.
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The Hill
Democratic socialists turn to Hong in Wisconsin with hopes for next big win

Democratic socialists turn to Hong in Wisconsin with hopes for next big win

August 05, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

State Representative Francesca Hong is leading in the Democratic race for Wisconsin governor, representing democratic socialists and the progressive left. She competes against establishment Democrats like Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, who has support from current Governor Tony Evers.

Key Facts

  • Francesca Hong is a state representative from Wisconsin.
  • She is running for governor of Wisconsin.
  • Hong is associated with democratic socialists and the progressive left.
  • She leads the Democratic candidates before the primary election.
  • David Crowley, Milwaukee County Executive, is another Democratic candidate.
  • Governor Tony Evers supports David Crowley.
  • The primary election is scheduled for Tuesday.
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The Hill
Max Miller allegations force Trump, GOP into thorny spot

Max Miller allegations force Trump, GOP into thorny spot

August 05, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Rep. Max Miller (R-Ohio) faces allegations of domestic abuse, creating a challenge for President Trump and the Republican Party before the midterm elections. President Trump contacted Miller to warn him about the risk to his campaign, despite having praised him earlier.

Key Facts

  • Rep. Max Miller is a Republican congressman from Ohio.
  • He is accused of domestic abuse.
  • These allegations are causing problems for Republicans ahead of the midterm elections.
  • President Trump called Miller to discuss the situation.
  • Trump had previously praised Miller publicly.
  • The Republican Party is trying to protect its majority in Congress.
  • The allegations may affect Miller’s chances of winning re-election.
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The Hill
Michigan Senate Democratic primary race remains too close to call as El-Sayed holds narrow lead – US politics live

Michigan Senate Democratic primary race remains too close to call as El-Sayed holds narrow lead – US politics live

August 05, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The Democratic primary race for the U.S. Senate seat in Michigan is very close, with Abdul El-Sayed holding a small lead over Haley Stevens as most votes are counted. The winner will face Republican Mike Rogers in the November general election.

Key Facts

  • Abdul El-Sayed leads Haley Stevens with about 49.5% to 45.78% of the vote in the Michigan Democratic Senate primary.
  • Over 95% of votes are counted, but the race remains too close to call.
  • The seat is open because Democratic Senator Gary Peters is retiring.
  • Mike Rogers, a former representative, won the Republican nomination without opposition.
  • The race is seen as a contest between the Democratic Party’s progressive wing and its establishment wing.
  • In Michigan’s governor race, Democrat Jocelyn Benson will face Republican John James, who was endorsed by President Trump.
  • Other notable primaries include progressives winning in Michigan and Missouri, and Trump-backed candidates advancing in Kansas and Washington state.
  • Ohio Republican Representative Max Miller faces calls to resign amid domestic abuse allegations but refuses to step down.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Trump administration has paid back 60% of $165bn in tariff refunds

Trump administration has paid back 60% of $165bn in tariff refunds

August 05, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The Trump administration has returned about $100 billion, or 60% of $165 billion, collected from tariffs ruled illegal by the US Supreme Court. In response, Trump introduced new tariffs on many countries under a law targeting forced labor, but a group of 25 US states has filed a lawsuit to stop these tariffs and demand refunds.

Key Facts

  • The Trump administration collected $165 billion from tariffs before the Supreme Court ruled them illegal.
  • About $100 billion, or 60%, of these tariffs have been refunded to companies.
  • Tariffs are taxes on imported goods and were a major part of President Trump's economic policy.
  • In February, the Supreme Court struck down some of these extra tariffs, requiring refunds.
  • President Trump introduced new tariffs on more than 80 countries last month under a law aimed at fighting forced labor.
  • These new tariffs range from 10% to 12.5% on imports from countries like the UK, Mexico, China, and the EU.
  • A coalition of 25 US states sued the Trump administration, asking a court to stop the new tariffs and require refunds.
  • The states claim the new tariffs cover nearly all US imports and accuse the administration of illegally raising taxes.
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Guardian World Guardian US Guardian Business
Fauci's legal woes could deter scientists from government service

Fauci's legal woes could deter scientists from government service

August 05, 2026 • Axios

Summary

Senate Republicans plan to vote on holding Dr. Anthony Fauci in contempt of Congress for refusing to answer questions about the coronavirus. This move has raised concerns that it could discourage scientists from working in government, potentially weakening the country’s public health system and scientific innovation.

Key Facts

  • The Senate Homeland Security Committee may hold Dr. Fauci in contempt for not answering questions in a recent hearing.
  • Fauci invoked the Fifth Amendment, which protects against self-incrimination, during the hearing.
  • Senator Rand Paul argues Fauci’s Fifth Amendment claim is invalid due to a pardon from President Biden.
  • Some lawmakers worry these actions will make government jobs less appealing to scientists.
  • The federal health workforce has shrunk significantly in recent years.
  • Senior health officials have left government jobs, citing issues with leadership or work environment.
  • Senate Republicans may subpoena more officials related to pandemic-era decisions.
  • The Biden administration faces criticism for proposing rules that increase political control over research funding.
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Axios
Trump's golden age reality check

Trump's golden age reality check

August 05, 2026 • Axios

Summary

President Donald Trump promised a strong economic "golden age" with growth rates up to 6%, but actual growth has been slower, around 2% annually since early 2025. Economists and government officials continue to debate whether faster growth is possible, while consumer spending and AI investments support the economy amid challenges like inflation and tariffs.

Key Facts

  • The economy grew at a 1.5% annual rate in the second quarter of 2025, slower than the 2.1% in the first quarter.
  • Since the start of 2025, the U.S. economy has grown at about a 2% yearly rate, close to its long-term trend.
  • President Trump’s officials predicted much higher growth, up to 6%, but these projections have not been met.
  • Consumer spending and investments in artificial intelligence infrastructure have helped the economy stay resilient.
  • Tariff uncertainty, inflation, and international tensions such as the Iran war have complicated economic growth.
  • In recent polling, more Americans favored Democrats over Republicans on economic policy for the first time in nearly ten years.
  • The Atlanta Federal Reserve estimates current quarter growth could be as high as 6%, but economists warn this figure may change as more data comes in.
  • The Congressional Budget Office forecasts U.S. economic growth will average about 2% per year over the next decade.
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Axios
Government is ‘for the people’ says Michigan primary candidate

Government is ‘for the people’ says Michigan primary candidate

August 05, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Abdul El-Sayed, a candidate in Michigan's Democratic Senate primary, stated that government should serve the people. He and Haley Stevens are very close in the vote count, with some votes still being counted.

Key Facts

  • Abdul El-Sayed is running in Michigan's Democratic Senate primary.
  • Haley Stevens is also a candidate in this primary.
  • The vote count between El-Sayed and Stevens is very close.
  • Some votes have not been counted yet.
  • El-Sayed emphasized that government’s role is to serve the people.
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Al Jazeera
Michigan, Missouri, Washington primary elections: Key takeaways

Michigan, Missouri, Washington primary elections: Key takeaways

August 05, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Several states, including Michigan, Missouri, and Washington, held primary elections that showed a divide between progressive and more centrist Democratic candidates. In Michigan’s Senate race, centrist Haley Stevens and progressive Abdul El-Sayed are in a close contest. Missouri’s progressive Democrat Cori Bush lost her primary challenge.

Key Facts

  • Michigan’s Democratic Senate primary is a close race between centrist Haley Stevens and progressive Abdul El-Sayed.
  • With most votes counted, El-Sayed leads narrowly but Stevens may gain from additional votes in Wayne County.
  • Michigan is a swing state important for control of the US Senate in the November elections.
  • El-Sayed supports “Medicare for All” and ending military aid to Israel, while Stevens focuses on the economy and manufacturing.
  • Stevens received large financial support, including from AIPAC, a pro-Israel group.
  • Missouri’s progressive Democrat Cori Bush lost her primary challenge to incumbent Wesley Bell.
  • John James, supported by President Donald Trump, won the Republican nomination for Michigan governor and will face Democrat Jocelyn Benson in November.
  • Progressive William Lawrence won the Democratic nomination for Michigan’s 7th district and will challenge a Republican in the general election.
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Al Jazeera
Rep. Chuck Edwards drops re-election bid after censure recommendation

Rep. Chuck Edwards drops re-election bid after censure recommendation

August 05, 2026 • Axios

Summary

Rep. Chuck Edwards, a Republican from North Carolina, stopped trying to be re-elected after the House Ethics Committee said he should be censured for sexual harassment. He will finish his current term but will not run again.

Key Facts

  • Rep. Chuck Edwards is a Republican from North Carolina.
  • The House Ethics Committee recommended he be censured for sexual harassment.
  • Censure is a formal warning or punishment from the House.
  • Edwards faced pressure to leave his re-election campaign after the committee’s recommendation.
  • He announced his decision to drop out early Wednesday after reflecting on the situation.
  • Edwards said he will finish his current term in office.
  • Reports said Edwards was criticized for how he treated young female staffers.
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Axios
Donald Trump says oil execs have made too much money since blockade of Hormuz Strait

Donald Trump says oil execs have made too much money since blockade of Hormuz Strait

August 05, 2026 • France24

Summary

President Donald Trump said oil company leaders have earned too much money since the Strait of Hormuz was blocked during the Iran war, which caused oil prices to rise sharply. He urged these companies to lower their prices, possibly because of public anger ahead of the midterm elections.

Key Facts

  • The Strait of Hormuz was blocked because of the war involving Iran.
  • This blockade caused oil prices to go up significantly.
  • Oil companies have made very high profits since the blockade.
  • President Donald Trump criticized the oil executives for these high earnings.
  • He called on the companies to reduce oil prices.
  • The comments came just three months before the U.S. midterm elections.
  • Rising oil prices may be causing frustration among Americans.
  • The issue could have political effects on President Trump and his party ahead of the elections.
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France24
US: Progressive El-Sayed slightly ahead in high-stakes Michigan Democrats primary

US: Progressive El-Sayed slightly ahead in high-stakes Michigan Democrats primary

August 05, 2026 • France24

Summary

In Michigan’s Democratic primary for the US Senate, progressive candidate Abdul El-Sayed has a small lead over US Representative Haley Stevens. The close race is seen as an important test for the direction of the Democratic Party.

Key Facts

  • The primary race is for the US Senate seat in Michigan.
  • Abdul El-Sayed identifies as a progressive candidate.
  • Haley Stevens is a current US Representative.
  • The race results are very close, with El-Sayed slightly ahead.
  • This election is considered a key test for the future direction of the Democratic Party.
  • The article was reported on August 5, 2026.
  • The race’s outcome will influence the party’s strategy going into upcoming elections.
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France24
Police chief considers joining legal action over PC Harper killers' early release

Police chief considers joining legal action over PC Harper killers' early release

August 05, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The chief of Thames Valley Police is thinking about joining a legal case to stop two men who killed Police Constable Andrew Harper from being released early from prison. The men were convicted of manslaughter in 2020, but the new law requiring longer sentences for killers of emergency workers does not apply to their case.

Key Facts

  • PC Andrew Harper was killed in 2019 while chasing suspects of quad bike theft.
  • Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers, passengers in the car that killed Harper, got 13-year sentences for manslaughter.
  • They may be released early after serving half their sentences due to a new early release scheme.
  • The driver, Henry Long, got 16 years and cannot be released early.
  • Thames Valley Police Chief Jason Hogg is discussing joining legal action with the Police Federation.
  • "Harper's Law," passed in 2022, gives tougher sentences for killing emergency workers but does not apply to cases before it started.
  • The government says manslaughter is not excluded from early release and that it would be unfair to block individual cases.
  • Justice Secretary Alex Norris said limiting early releases could cause a prison overcrowding problem.
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BBC Top Stories
Why America Failed to Stop the 9/11 Terror Attacks

Why America Failed to Stop the 9/11 Terror Attacks

August 05, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The article reviews how U.S. intelligence agencies and government officials failed to prevent the 9/11 terrorist attacks despite having some warnings and information beforehand. It explains that agencies like the CIA and FBI missed key signs, did not share important information effectively, and took no strong action before the attacks happened.

Key Facts

  • Nineteen terrorists planned and carried out the September 11 attacks without being stopped by U.S. authorities.
  • U.S. intelligence knew a major attack was likely but could not connect all the clues to prevent it.
  • Agencies did not alert airlines or airport security about the threat before 9/11.
  • Internal struggles and poor communication inside the FBI hindered investigation efforts, exemplified by the handling of suspect Zacarias Moussaoui.
  • The CIA had information about al-Qaeda operatives living in the U.S. but failed to act timely.
  • After 9/11, the U.S. government restructured intelligence services and expanded surveillance and security powers.
  • The article suggests many errors and missed opportunities contributed to the attacks being successful.
  • Officials, including future Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, were surprised by the method of attack despite discussions about planes being used as weapons.
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Newsweek