Stories from March 4, 2026

A House committee has voted to subpoena Attorney General Bondi. The subpoena demands Bondi answer questions regarding documents related to the Epstein case. This action follows the committee's ongoing investigation into the handling of the Epstein files. The subpoena seeks to compel Bondi's testimony and the production of relevant materials to further the committee's inquiry.

A fire continues to burn at an oil depot in Fujairah, UAE, a day after it was ignited by falling debris from a drone. The incident has raised concerns about regional stability and the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to drone attacks. Authorities are working to contain the blaze and investigate the origin of the drone. This event highlights ongoing security challenges in the Gulf region.

A new study involving over 600,000 people suggests GLP-1 drugs, originally for diabetes and obesity, may effectively combat addiction across multiple substances. Researchers found that patients taking GLP-1s experienced significantly fewer overdoses, hospitalizations, and deaths related to substance use, and a reduced risk of developing new addictions to alcohol, opioids, cocaine, and nicotine. This effect is attributed to the drugs' action on brain regions governing reward and motivation, dampening dopamine signaling and making addictive substances less appealing. The findings indicate GLP-1 drugs could offer a novel, broad-spectrum approach to addiction treatment. Further clinical trials are underway to explore their full potential in this area.

Renewed conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has escalated, with Lebanon caught in the middle as Israel conducts heavy airstrikes in Beirut and launches a ground incursion into southern Lebanon. Hezbollah has responded with firing into Israel, stating it will not surrender. This escalation has already displaced nearly 85,000 people, according to the Lebanese government. The ongoing hostilities threaten to further destabilize the region and deepen the humanitarian crisis for Lebanese civilians.

A landslide at a coltan mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo resulted in over 200 fatalities. The DRC's Mines Ministry reported that approximately 70 children were among those who died. The incident occurred at an informal mining operation.

The House Ethics Committee has launched an investigation into Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas). The inquiry stems from allegations, including that the Congressman had an affair with an aide. This formal action by the bipartisan committee indicates a serious review of the reported conduct. The investigation will determine if Gonzales violated House rules or ethics standards. The outcome could lead to sanctions or further disciplinary action.

Primary elections have officially begun in key states including Texas, North Carolina, and Arkansas, initiating the process of shaping midterm matchups. These initial contests were marked by some confusion at the polls and generated sharp reactions, leading to a few unexpected results. The outcomes of these primaries are now raising further questions about the broader implications for the upcoming general elections.

The House Oversight Committee has voted to subpoena Attorney General Pam Bondi as part of its ongoing investigation into Jeffrey Epstein. This development comes as Minnesota's governor reported that federal immigration crackdowns are hindering state efforts against fraud. Concurrently, the U.S. has initiated a joint military operation with Ecuador aimed at combating organized crime groups. These events highlight ongoing governmental scrutiny and international cooperation across various critical issues.

A new report reveals that Catholic clergy in Rhode Island abused hundreds of children for decades, with church leaders minimizing the scandal. The investigation found over 300 children were molested by at least 75 different clergy members across 70 years. This comprehensive report, discussed by a survivor and advocate, highlights the long-standing systemic issues within the church. It aims to provide accountability and empower survivors by bringing these historical abuses to light.

Brazil's Congress has ratified the EU-Mercosur trade deal, according to AP News. This action by Brazil marks a significant step in the long-negotiated agreement between the European Union and the South American trade bloc. The deal aims to reduce tariffs and boost trade between the two regions, potentially impacting various economic sectors. However, the agreement still requires ratification by all other Mercosur member states and EU member countries before it can take full effect.

Florida has reactivated a long-dormant investigation into Raul Castro regarding the 1996 shootdown of two planes operated by the Cuban exile group Brothers to the Rescue. This inquiry, initially launched in 2006, seeks to determine if Castro, then Cuba's defense minister, bears responsibility for the incident that killed four U.S. residents. The renewed probe follows a federal court ruling in 2022 that found Cuba liable for the deaths and awarded $455 million to the victims' families. Investigators are now reviewing evidence, including testimony from former Cuban officials, to potentially issue an arrest warrant for Castro, who is 93. This development could lead to renewed legal pressure on the former Cuban leader.

Home Secretary Mahmood is expected to announce new curbs on support for asylum seekers. In an upcoming speech, the Home Secretary will argue these measures are necessary to restore "trust" within the asylum system. This policy shift indicates a stricter approach to asylum claims and support provisions. The move is likely to spark debate regarding humanitarian obligations and immigration policy. Its implementation will significantly impact individuals seeking refuge in the country.