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Daily Digest

Thursday, April 30, 2026 — the most important stories, distilled and fact-checked

All News Based on 845 articles Updated Apr 30, 07:00 PM ET

U.S. Ends Longest Homeland Security Shutdown Amid Rising Middle East Tensions and Key Political Developments

The U.S. government ended the longest shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security after President Trump signed a funding bill, though immigration enforcement remains unfunded. Rising tensions in the Middle East, including potential conflict with Iran and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, have impacted global oil prices and military briefings. Additionally, the first direct commercial flight from the U.S. to Venezuela in seven years resumed, signaling shifts in international relations.

  • President Trump signed a bill funding most of the Department of Homeland Security, ending the agency's longest shutdown.
  • U.S. military leaders briefed President Trump on possible military actions amid ongoing tensions with Iran and the Persian Gulf blockade.
  • The first direct commercial flight from the United States to Venezuela in seven years landed in Caracas, resuming suspended air travel.
  • The U.S. Senate passed a rule banning members and staff from participating in prediction markets to prevent misuse of sensitive information.
  • Apple reported record revenue for the March quarter and announced CEO Tim Cook will step down in September.

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