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US Executes Strategic Strikes on Iranian Radar Sites Amid Tehran’s Retaliation Claims on Air Base

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US Executes Strategic Strikes on Iranian Radar Sites Amid Tehran’s Retaliation Claims on Air Base

The United States has executed self-defense airstrikes targeting Iranian radar installations, citing “aggression” by Iran’s government. Meanwhile, Tehran claims to have retaliated by attacking a U.S.-utilized airbase amid ongoing discussions to resolve a conflict that has persisted for three months.

U.S. Central Command reported that the operations over the weekend involved strikes on radar and command centers in Goruk and on Qeshm Island, situated in the Strait of Hormuz. These actions were in response to what was described as “aggressive Iranian actions,” including the downing of a U.S. MQ-1 drone operating in international airspace.

“In swift retaliation, U.S. fighter jets neutralized Iranian air defense systems, a ground control station, and two attack drones that posed threats to maritime vessels in the region,” stated the command on Sunday evening.

“No American personnel were injured. CENTCOM remains committed to safeguarding U.S. interests and assets against unwarranted Iranian hostility during the current ceasefire,” the statement continued.

Qeshm Island, often referred to by Western military experts as Tehran’s “unsinkable aircraft carrier,” is heavily fortified by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy and hosts a subterranean “missile city.”

Meanwhile, Iran claims to have targeted an airbase used by the US, without naming it.

Air defences in Kuwait, where a major US base is located, were “confronting hostile missile and drone attacks” on Monday, the country’s army said on social media.

Iran carried out the attack in response to a strike on a communications tower in Sirik County, located in the country’s Hormozgan province, according to the Tasnim News Agency.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Aerospace Force has since warned that if US “aggression” continues, the response will be “entirely different.”

Brigadier General Majid Ebn al-Reza, the regime’s caretaker defense minister, warned the US Sunday “Our finger remains on the trigger” and “new surprises are on the way,” without divulging further.

Talks over a peace deal are ongoing – but Secretary of War Pete Hegseth didn’t rule out attacks on the regime restarting if there’s no deal.

“Our ability to recommence if necessary…we are more than capable,” Hegseth said in Singapore over the weekend.

“Our stockpiles are more than ​suited for that, both there and around the globe, ​so we’re in a very good place.”

President Trump has once again lashed out at critics who are urging him to strike a deal just to end the conflict.

“Iran really wants to make a deal, and it will be a good one for the U.S.A. and those that are with us,” Trump wrote on Truth Social before unleashing a blistering attack on his opponents.

“But don’t the Dumocrats, and variously seemingly unpatriotic Republicans, understand that it is MUCH tougher for me to properly do my job and negotiate when political hacks keep negatively ‘chirping’ at levels never seen before, over and over again, that I should move faster, or move slower, or go to war, or not go to war, or whatever.

“Just sit back and relax, it will all work out well in the end. It always does.”

With Post wires

Jerome Powell Cautions Against Political Influence on Federal Reserve, Judiciary, and Education in Impactful JFK Award Speech

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Jerome Powell Cautions Against Political Influence on Federal Reserve, Judiciary, and Education in Impactful JFK Award Speech


In a recent address at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library, overlooking the scenic Boston Harbor, former Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell took a stand to champion the autonomy of independent institutions. During this gathering on Sunday, Powell received recognition for his steadfast dedication to safeguarding the Federal Reserve’s independence.

Powell emphasized the importance of various pillars of democracy, namely universities, courts, Congress, and the central bank, describing them as essential components of democratic governance. He highlighted the Federal Reserve’s independence as an invaluable asset that warrants protection against political interference.

In a notably candid defense, Powell cautioned against the risks of a single administration dismissing bank officials due to policy disagreements. Such actions, he argued, could set a precedent for future administrations, ultimately eroding the trust and credibility the Fed has carefully cultivated over decades.

Having frequently been at odds with former President Trump during his tenure as chair, Powell concluded his term in May. He was succeeded by Kevin Warsh, whom Trump appointed to head the Federal Reserve.

In a rare move, Powell opted to retain his position on the Fed’s governing board after stepping down as chair, a role he will hold until January 2028. This decision effectively prevents the Trump administration from filling an additional board seat.

The Trump administration has also sought to fire Fed governor Lisa Cook, which would open an additional seat on the rate-setting committee the president could fill. Yet Cook sued and the courts have so far let her keep her seat.

While Powell never mentioned Trump by name Sunday, he repeatedly returned to the importance of protecting institutions from political pressure and preserving public trust in their independence.

“Like many other institutions, the Fed has been undergoing a stress test,” he said. “Congress wisely chose to insulate monetary policy decisions from political pressure. All other advanced economy nations have done the same.”

Since 1989, the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award has recognized public servants who make what the foundation describes as courageous decisions of conscience despite personal or professional consequences.

Previous recipients include former Presidents Barack Obama and George H. W. Bush, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and former Vice President Mike Pence.

In March, the foundation said it was awarding Powell for protecting the independence of the Federal Reserve “despite years of personal attacks and threats from the highest levels of government.”

Trump harshly criticized Powell throughout his tenure as chair, frequently attacking the Fed’s interest-rate decisions and urging the central bank to cut borrowing costs more aggressively.

Beyond the Federal Reserve, Powell defended U.S. universities and research institutions, the Constitution, Congress and the court system.

“The United States has long been the leader of the world’s freedom-seeking people — the indispensable nation. Other countries know us as a nation built on integrity, and that integrity must be maintained,” he said.

In his remarks, Powell indirectly acknowledged mistakes as chair. The Fed is legally required to seek stable prices, but inflation surged amid the pandemic’s supply chain crunch. Many economists believe the central bank should have raised interest rates more quickly in response.

“At the Fed, we are, of course, human and thus imperfect,” Powell said. “When we make mistakes, we acknowledge them and change course.”

Powell was honored alongside residents of Minnesota’s Twin Cities, who received the award for what the Kennedy Foundation described as acts of courage during a federal immigration crackdown that led to thousands of arrests and the deaths of Minneapolis mother Renée Good and nurse Alex Pretti, both of whom were killed while observing or documenting enforcement activity.

“It’s wonderful just to be invited, honoring Renée,” Good’s father, Tim Granger, said as he entered the library with family members.

Kennedy’s only surviving child, Caroline Kennedy, and her son, Jack Schlossberg, said in a statement that without people like Powell and those in Minnesota “willing to put their lives on the line to hold America to its promises, our democracy can’t survive.”

Attendee U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, who is running for governor of Minnesota next year, reflected that the award was unusual because it recognized ordinary residents rather than elected officials.

“This didn’t go to an elected leader for a reason,” Klobuchar said. “It’s because the people stood up. They stood up by marching 50,000 strong. They stood by bringing kids they didn’t even know — strangers’ kids — to school, by bringing them groceries and they didn’t blink. And that’s what this award is about. It’s about courage.”

___

AP journalist Christopher Rugaber contributed from Washington.

RHORI Drama Escalates: Liz’s Hair-Pulling Incident Sparks Tensions with Jo-Ellen in Explosive Showdown

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RHORI Drama Escalates: Liz’s Hair-Pulling Incident Sparks Tensions with Jo-Ellen in Explosive Showdown

In the latest installment of The Real Housewives of Rhode Island, tensions flare as Liz seems to forget the cameras are rolling, denying she took her altercation with Jo-Ellen too far. Jo-Ellen, stunned by the events, struggles to reconcile this with her belief that Liz is one of her closest friends. Meanwhile, Kelsey faces the prospect of losing financial support from her ex as her new relationship becomes official.

RHORI Recap: Liz Calls Jo-Ellen Disingenuous, Pulls Her Hair, Pushes Her Chair, and Refers to Her as "Jo-Devil;" Rulla Hints at Infidelity in Jo-Ellen's Marriage and Kelsey Makes Things Official With Bill

The journey to Boston proved tumultuous. Liz’s confrontational stance towards Alicia over claims of homelessness created an emotional whirlwind, with Jo-Ellen caught in the middle, attempting to mediate. Alicia is distressed that Liz continues to challenge her hardship, particularly since Liz is aware of the struggles Alicia endured during her upbringing. Despite the tension, Liz remains unfazed, leaving Jo-Ellen in an awkward position as Alicia becomes increasingly upset.

Liz insists that Alicia’s use of the term “homeless” is exaggerated, and she refuses to let Alicia perpetuate this narrative. She questions Jo-Ellen’s sincerity, accusing her of hypocrisy for suddenly siding with Alicia despite previously mocking her word choice. Liz believes Jo-Ellen is sending mixed signals by saying one thing and doing another.

As Jo-Ellen attempts to diffuse the situation, Liz’s patience wears thin, snapping at Jo-Ellen’s attempt to gently intervene by touching her arm. The tension reaches a boiling point, and when Ashley enters the scene, she immediately senses the unease. Alicia remarks candidly that Liz’s behavior is far from normal.

Instead of reading Liz’s anger, Jo-Ellen continues to try and de-escalate the situation, but Liz snaps when Jo-Ellen tries to calmly put her hands on her arm. This is not going well and when Ashley enters, she feels the tension immediately.  Alicia states that Liz is “not normal.”

Rosie walks her Sinatra impersonator husband to the stage for Sinatra Sunday and while Rich entertains, Liz exits to have a cigarette so the ladies can talk about what happened in the car. Jo-Ellen follows at Liz’s heels and Liz claims that she is once again the monster.  Liz points out that she did apologize to Alicia numerous times.  Liz also does not appreciate this side of Jo-Ellen, trying to play mediator.  She yells at Jo-Ellen to “get the f*ck out of” her face, but Jo-Ellen continues to follow Liz, questioning what she did to receive that sort of reaction. 

Liz calls Jo-Ellen a disingenuous “mother f*cker” and Jo-Ellen realizes that Liz is looking for a fight. Back at the table (whilst Rich croons), Jo-Ellen reminds Liz that, “All you do is be mean to everyone. Why are you being such a nasty human?” Liz then pulls Jo-Ellen’s hair and make it clear that Jo-Ellen is not her best friend. Liz shoves Jo-Ellen’s chair and gets in her ear, whispering something nasty enough that Jo-Ellen leaves and heads home. If only we got THAT audio…

Alicia is officially a dance mom and her family gets together to celebrate some award that Alicia is not quite sure of.  That tracks.  Alicia sends her daughter down to the other end of the table so she can tell her aunts about the homeless comment. She explains that Liz snapped and Alicia’s mom feels disrespected by Liz.  Alicia claims that Liz demonstrates abusive behavior. Some wonder if Liz’s “medication” made her paranoid.

Kelsey and Liz head to Dolores’s summer rental. Kelsey shares that Jo-Ellen texted her in the midst of the fight and Liz gives her side of the argument. Liz continues to state that Alicia was never homeless, but when Jo-Ellen told Alicia that her feelings were validated, Liz got offended.  Jo-Ellen will never be the peacemaker, but simply needs to be in the middle of everything. 

Liz finds Jo-Ellen disingenuous, but Kelsey prefers to stay out of things because Liz’s problems with people stem from trust issues.  Liz claims that she had no choice but to shut Jo-Devil down. Dolores feels like Alicia may not be very strong-minded and that friendship needs to be mended, but with Jo-Ellen, it’s time she shows her true colors. 

Rosie loves Rich’s family so much and so she is thrilled to have a beach picnic with them. They discuss Rosie having kids, an oddly public conversation, and Rosie admits that she is not sure she would be good at mothering. She states that when they got married, Rich was cool either way, but now things seem to be shifting.

The lease on Audrey’s is up soon and Ashley and her husband have to decide what to do about the space.  Ashley suggests sprucing up the menu with some cocktails to make money. Ashley thinks if they throw out more creative ideas, perhaps something might help create more income? Maybe they should just stick to influencing…

Kelsey has Jo-Ellen over to paint and yap.  Jo-Ellen is unsure why Liz got so mad at her. Kelsey wasn’t there and wants to support both of them, but admits that she does not think Jo-Ellen had any malice behind her moves. Jo-Ellen thinks that Kelsey is just scared of her and she refuses to cower because Liz is inappropriate. 

Liz and Rulla meet up now that Rulla is fully healed from her mysterious illness.  Liz reached out while Rulla was ill and so Rulla feels a closeness with her.  Liz claims that she felt “bamboozled and tag-teamed” by Jo-Ellen who continues to play various roles.  Liz knows exactly what she is doing venting about Jo-Ellen, considering Rulla has her own issues with Jo-Ellen’s meddling.  

Liz is doubting Jo-Ellen’s authenticity and Rulla agrees.  Rulla wants Jo-Ellen to go fix her own life before she lashes out on Rulla’s life.  Rulla claims that Jo-Ellen has not been the “most loyal” to her husband- pot, meet kettle?  Maybe she should stop inserting herself in Rulla’s husband’s alleged affair and focus on her relationship.

Kelsey’s ex used to pay for her gym membership, but Bill is now paying for this one. Kelsey learns that Bill is ready to call it official with her and he has proven his loyalty to her over the past two years. But, Kelsey realizes that Bill does not want her to have any attachment to her ex.

The problem is, Kelsey needs some great health insurance.  In 2015, Kelsey was in a car accident and they found a brain tumor she never knew she had. Her ex was adamant that she has good health insurance to be sure the tumor was at bay. Kelsey wonders how she can NOT accept her ex’s gift of payment and claims that Bill’s ego is getting in the way.  Bill claims Kelsey put him through hell for long enough-it’s time to cut ties with her ex completely.

Jo-Ellen is meeting with Liz, but refuses to apologize unless Liz says it first, so this should be interesting. According to Jo-Ellen, Liz has something in her head that she thinks people are against her, even when they love her.

Things start out awkward, as Liz is unsure about accountability on Jo-Ellen’s end.  Liz states that she took offense to Jo-Ellen positioning herself as the peacemaker amidst the Alicia disagreement.  Liz believes that Jo-Ellen’s mediator role was poorly played, but Jo-Ellen points out that Liz was going at Alicia hard. Liz feels as though Jo-Ellen likes to escalate issues.

Liz cuts Jo-Ellen off at the knees when she interrupts Jo-Ellen, who claims they are besties.  Liz shrieks, “Stop saying we are best friends.  We have never been best friends.” This is news to a very hurt Jo-Ellen. Liz states she is real and that Jo-Ellen is cruel. Liz calls Jo-Ellen the devil and denies pulling her hair- so much for being real. Liz says that there is something so f*cked up about Jo-Ellen and she is over Jo-Ellen attacking her character. Liz does not believe she put her hands on Jo-Ellen…but the cameras don’t lie.  Liz jumps up from the table, Jo-Ellen mutters that Liz is a “crazy b*tch,” and their issues are left unresolved.

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE RHORI EPISODE?

Heartfelt Tribute: Family Remembers Teen’s Legacy Amidst 2023 Gun Violence Tragedy

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Heartfelt Tribute: Family Remembers Teen’s Legacy Amidst 2023 Gun Violence Tragedy


SAVANNAH, Ga. — On Sunday, the family of a teenager who fell victim to gun violence came together to commemorate his heavenly birthday and advocate for change.

Semaj Floyd was only 16 years old when his life was tragically cut short by a shooting on Amaranth Avenue in 2023. Three years have passed since that fateful day, and his family gathered at the scene of the incident to celebrate what would have been his 19th birthday.

In a heartfelt tribute, Semaj’s loved ones walked to a nearby park and released balloons to honor his memory.

Unmasking the Deception: New Search for Woman Accused of Faking Cancer to Defraud Loved Ones

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Unmasking the Deception: New Search for Woman Accused of Faking Cancer to Defraud Loved Ones

A woman from Pennsylvania, accused of fabricating a terminal brain cancer diagnosis to fraudulently collect over $10,000 from friends and family, has now been placed on the FBI’s most wanted list.

Authorities have intensified their efforts to locate Vanessa O’Rourke, 37, who is alleged to have redirected donations from GoFundMe to finance a trip to Australia rather than cover medical expenses.

Back in 2015, O’Rourke claimed she was suffering from glioblastoma, a highly aggressive and typically deadly type of brain cancer.

According to a recent FBI announcement, she informed her loved ones that she required a visit to Australia for cutting-edge medical treatment between October 2015 and July 2016.

At the time, O’Rourke was a 28-year-old student of brain surgery at Temple University’s medical program. She reportedly collected $11,740 from over 140 contributors, in what prosecutors have described as an “appalling” scheme of deception.

‘Through her false and fraudulent pretenses, her family and others provided money and support,’ the FBI said in a statement. 

O’Rourke is believed to have traveled to Australia in April 2016, where she ‘engaged in a variety of leisure activities and did not receive any medical treatment’. 

After the vacation, she returned to her home in Harleysville, just outside of Philadelphia, and persuaded her relatives to launch a fundraising page for her. 

Vanessa O'Rourke, 37, who is accused of faking terminal brain cancer to scam her friends and family out of more than $10,000 before fleeing to Australia is now on the FBI's most wanted list

Vanessa O’Rourke, 37, who is accused of faking terminal brain cancer to scam her friends and family out of more than $10,000 before fleeing to Australia is now on the FBI’s most wanted list

Investigators have renewed their search for O'Rourke, 37, who allegedly used the donations to fund a luxury vacation to Australia instead of the medical treatment she claimed she needed

Investigators have renewed their search for O’Rourke, 37, who allegedly used the donations to fund a luxury vacation to Australia instead of the medical treatment she claimed she needed 

O'Rourke fled to Queensland, Australia. Queensland's Gold Coast is pictured above

O’Rourke fled to Queensland, Australia. Queensland’s Gold Coast is pictured above

The family even held a benefit event at a local restaurant with $20 entry, and O’Rourke used the funds they raised to travel to Australia again later in 2016, detectives said.   

She was indicted on 15 counts of wire fraud in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania on May 3, 2018. 

Vanessa O'Rourke pictured by the FBI in 2016

Vanessa O’Rourke pictured by the FBI in 2016 

An international arrest warrant was issued, but investigators have been unable to track down the accused fraudster. 

William McSwain, who was the US Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania at the time, called the allegations against O’Rourke ‘nauseating.’  

‘O’Rourke is charged with preying upon the kindness and generosity of good people who wished to help those in need,’ he said in a statement issued in 2020. 

‘As alleged, there was no need here – only lies, greed and callous manipulation.’

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Prosecutors said that she was believed to be residing in Queensland, Australia. 

Local newspapers which published O’Rourke’s fundraiser in 2016 said her relatives wrote on the page that she was studying at Temple Med in Philadelphia to become a brain surgeon. 

O’Rourke is the latest in a series of high-profile cancer fraudsters who have exploited online fundraising platforms for financial gain in recent years. 

Amanda Christine Riley, 37, was sentenced in May 2022 to five years in prison for soliciting more than $100,000 in donations for cancer treatments - despite not having cancer

Amanda Christine Riley, 37, was sentenced in May 2022 to five years in prison for soliciting more than $100,000 in donations for cancer treatments – despite not having cancer

Madison Russo, 20, a college student from Iowa was spared jail in June 2023 after falsely claiming to have cancer and documenting her 'battle' on social media

Madison Russo, 20, a college student from Iowa was spared jail in June 2023 after falsely claiming to have cancer and documenting her ‘battle’ on social media

Amanda Christine Riley became one of the most notorious ‘fake cancer’ scammers after she received more than $100,000 in donations from supporters.

Riley was sentenced to five years in jail in May 2022 after she gained $105,513 from at least 349 people by pretending to have Hodgkin’s lymphoma on social media. 

The 41-year-old California native eventually pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud after raking in donations over a seven-year period. 

Beginning in 2012, Riley, who was then living in San Jose, began posting about needing to pay for medical care. 

To maintain her deception, she shaved her head to make it appear as if she were receiving chemotherapy, falsified medical records, and forged physicians’ letters and medical certifications.

She deposited the donations into her personal bank accounts and used the funds to pay her living expenses.

In 2019, an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service and the San Jose Police Department uncovered the fraud. She was arrested the following year. 

Her shocking case inspired the hit ‘Scamanda’ podcast and ABC docuseries. 

Federal prosecutors claimed Riley created had a blog, Lymphoma Can Suck It, which included a link to the support page shown above with a 'donate now' button

Federal prosecutors claimed Riley created had a blog, Lymphoma Can Suck It, which included a link to the support page shown above with a ‘donate now’ button

Russo, 20, wrote on TikTok, GoFundMe, Facebook and LinkedIn that she had pancreatic cancer, leukemia and a football-sized tumor wrapped around her spine

Russo, 20, wrote on TikTok, GoFundMe, Facebook and LinkedIn that she had pancreatic cancer, leukemia and a football-sized tumor wrapped around her spine

More recently, a college student from Iowa was spared jail in June 2023 after falsely claiming to have cancer and documenting her ‘battle’ on social media. 

Madison Russo, 20, wrote on TikTok, GoFundMe, Facebook and LinkedIn that she had pancreatic cancer, leukemia and a football-sized tumor wrapped around her spine. 

Russo, from Bettendorf, pleaded guilty to first-degree theft, and was ordered to pay $39,000 in restitution and a $1,370 fine. 

Speaking in court at her sentencing hearing, Russo attempted to shirk responsibility by claiming she faked cancer in an attempt to make her troubled family focus on her.

‘A lot of people have made speculation as to why I did this and how somebody who looked like they had everything together could have such a mess,’ she said. 

‘I didn’t do this for money or greed. I didn’t do this for attention. I did this as an attempt to get my family back together.’

Her scam, which impacted more than 400 people, unraveled when medical professionals spotted discrepancies in her story online. 

Police subpoenaed her medical records and found she had never been diagnosed with cancer at any medical facility in the area. She was arrested in January. 

Like these ‘fake cancer’ cases, prosecutors said that O’Rourke’s scheme relied on the trust and compassion of the people closest to her, and generous strangers who believed they were helping save a life. 

Anyone with information about O’Rourke’s case should contact the FBI.  

Tragic Murder-Suicide: Husband Confesses to Killing Wife via Text Before Taking Own Life, Police Report

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Tragic Murder-Suicide: Husband Confesses to Killing Wife via Text Before Taking Own Life, Police Report

A man from New Jersey has been accused of a brutal crime that shocked the community. Allegedly motivated by deep-seated resentment and an extramarital affair, Michael A. Kless, 67, reportedly murdered his wife using a barbell. Law enforcement officials point to a “long-simmering hatred” as a possible motive for the horrifying act.

Stacy E. Kless

Inset: Stacy E. Kless (Facebook). Background: Home in the 100 block of Seward Drive in Ocean Township, New Jersey, where Kless was allegedly killed by her husband (Google Maps).

Michael Kless now faces charges including first-degree murder, unlawful possession of a weapon, and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. The victim, 66-year-old Stacy E. Kless, was his wife of nearly 40 years. This tragic incident was brought to light by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, which confirmed the charges. Police were called to the couple’s residence in Ocean Township on Seward Drive around 9:30 a.m. after receiving two alarming reports of a murder.

Upon arrival, officers discovered Stacy Kless deceased inside the home. Her husband, the primary suspect, was later found unconscious in his vehicle at a nearby rest stop on the Garden State Parkway. He was immediately taken to a hospital and remains in critical condition.

Further details emerged from a probable cause arrest warrant obtained by the Asbury Park Press. It revealed that after committing the crime, Michael Kless sent text messages to their two adult children, confessing to the murder. Additionally, he reportedly emailed another individual, admitting to the crime and expressing a longstanding animosity towards his wife. The email also disclosed his involvement in a new relationship with a woman from Central America and described the murder, aligning with evidence found at the scene.

The Asbury Park Press obtained a probable cause arrest warrant that said after the suspect killed his wife, he texted their two adult children to admit what he had done. He also allegedly sent an emailed admission to another person. The email reportedly “indicated a long simmering ‘hatred’ of Victim Kless, his involvement in a new intimate relationship with a woman from Central America, and a description of the murder itself” that matched evidence from the scene.

He also reportedly told his children that he planned to take his own life by ingesting prescription pills.

Cops then reportedly learned that about a half-hour before they were called, a work crew came to the home for a scheduled repair. When Michael Kless came to the door, he had a scratch on his face and insisted they reschedule their work, the affidavit reportedly said.

Ocean Township Mayor John P. Napolitani Sr. told the Park Press the murder has left the community “blindsided.” The couple was married 39 years and had grandchildren.

“Nobody saw this coming,” Napolitani told the outlet. “There was not a clue this was going to happen.”

Unveiled: Meet the 24 Players Representing the Socceroos at the World Cup

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Cristian Volpato’s unexpected decision to switch allegiance from Italy to Australia has culminated in his selection for the World Cup, even before he has made his debut for the Socceroos.

The Sassuolo midfielder is among the standout names in Australia’s 26-man lineup, which also includes uncapped 25-year-old striker Tete Yengi. Meanwhile, veterans like skipper Mat Ryan and Mathew Leckie are gearing up for their fourth World Cup appearance.

However, the final squad announcement brought disappointment for some seasoned players. Martin Boyle, along with defender Kye Rowles, forward Brandon Borrello, and goalkeeper Joe Gauci, were notably left out by coach Tony Popovic.

“A range of factors has gone into selecting this final World Cup squad,” Popovic commented, shedding light on the decision-making process behind the team’s composition.

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“Some difficult decisions had to be made — that’s the nature of major tournaments.”

Socceroos’ 2026 FIFA World Cup squad

Goalkeepers

  • Patrick Beach* (Melbourne City)
  • Paul Izzo* (Randers FC)
  • Mathew Ryan (Levante)

Defenders

  • Aziz Behich (Melbourne City)
  • Jordan Bos* (Feyenoord)
  • Cameron Burgess* (Swansea City)
  • Alessandro Circati* (Parma)
  • Miloš Degenek (APOEL FC)
  • Jason Geria* (Albirex Niigata)
  • Lucas Herrington* (Colorado Rapids)
  • Jacob Italiano* (Grazer AK)
  • Harry Souttar (Leicester City)
  • Kai Trewin* (New York City FC)

Midfielders

  • Cameron Devlin (Heart of Midlothian)
  • Ajdin Hrustic (Heracles Almelo)
  • Jackson Irvine (FC St. Pauli)
  • Connor Metcalfe* (FC St. Pauli)
  • Aiden O’Neill* (New York City FC)
  • Paul Okon-Engstler* (Sydney FC)

Forwards

  • Nestory Irankunda* (Watford)
  • Mathew Leckie (Melbourne City)
  • Awer Mabil (CD Castellón)
  • Mohamed Touré* (Norwich City)
  • Nishan Velupillay* (Melbourne Victory)
  • Cristian Volpato* (US Sassuolo Calcio)
  • Tete Yengi* (FC Machida Zelvia)

(* First World Cup selection)

The squad features 17 players making their World Cup debut, including 18-year-old defender Lucas Herrington.

The Socceroos play a friendly against Switzerland in San Diego on Saturday, then group games against Türkiye, the United States and Paraguay.

Sassuolo winger Volpato, 22, only arrived in camp on Saturday morning (local time) — too late to feature in that night’s 1-0 loss to Mexico — after switching his allegiance.

Volpato knocked back Graham Arnold’s pitch to join Australia’s 2022 World Cup squad, then in March said he was waiting for a call-up from Italy’s senior team, before his change of heart.

Yengi, younger brother of fellow Socceroo Kusini Yengi, was selected despite not playing against Mexico.

Harry Souttar and Leckie make the squad after their first Socceroos appearances since 2024 against Mexico.

Rowles, a starter in 2022, misses out, as does Boyle, who was injured ahead of Qatar and again falls agonisingly short of reaching a World Cup

How many players are in the Socceroos World Cup squad?

The Socceroos have 26 players in their World Cup squad. All teams have to pick between 23 and 26 players and submit their final list to FIFA by 1 June.

FIFA will then confirm and publish the official squads on Tuesday.

When do the Socceroos play their first World Cup game?

The Socceroos will play their first group game against Türkiye on 14 June in Vancouver.

They will then play the United States in Seattle on 20 June and Paraguay on 26 June in Santa Clara, near San Francisco.

— With reporting by the Australian Associated Press.

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Tradesman Recounts Harrowing Experience in Violent Road Rage Incident

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Tradesman Recounts Harrowing Experience in Violent Road Rage Incident

A tradesman has recounted his harrowing experience of road rage that escalated into a life-threatening axe attack following a minor collision.

Rico Nekelo feels fortunate to have survived the ordeal, although he now faces the daunting task of healing from both the psychological and physical wounds inflicted during the attack in Melbourne.

What was supposed to be a routine trip to visit a friend last month turned into a brush with death for Nekelo.

Reflecting on the terrifying incident, Nekelo shared with 9News, “At the scene, I was definitely dying. I was getting cold, and my eyes were starting to shut.”

Rico Nekelo says he's lucky to be alive but now has to cope with the mental and physical scars from the attack in Melbourne.

READ MORE: Man on the run after allegedly stabbing two people in Melbourne

“On the scene I was definitely dying. I was getting cold and yeah, my eyes are starting to shut,” he told 9News.

The horror road rage attack unfolded after an erratic driver collided with Nekelo’s car in Cranbourne on April 6.

The 21-year-old said he copped an axe to the back, twice.

“I pretty much got out of the car, and he got out at the same time with an axe and Yeah, I just started running,” he said.

Rico Nekelo was on his way to see a mate last month but instead came close to death.

Rico Nekelo was on his way to see a mate last month but instead came close to death. Nine

READ MORE: Man hit twice by car during alleged wild brawl on Melbourne footpath

His injuries were so severe his surgeon said he was lucky to be alive.

His sister Charlotte Vemoa said it was a “very violent attack for something that was very minor”.

While Rekelo’s out of hospital, he’s still carrying the scars of the nightmare ordeal.

Rico Nekelo says he's lucky to be alive but now has to cope with the mental and physical scars from the attack in Melbourne.

The horror road rage attack unfolded after an erratic driver collided with Nekelo’s car in Melbourne on April 6. Nine

“I would say it’s, it’s been very hard as an older sibling to watch,” Vemoa said.

His mother, Mate Carnahan, said it had been mentally hard for loved ones, who felt helpless and were desperate for support.

“So the victim assistance program. I’ve been trying to reach out to them since the hospital, so maybe five weeks now,” Nekelo said.

READ MORE: Israeli army captures strategic castle in Lebanon

Rico Nekelo says he's lucky to be alive but now has to cope with the mental and physical scars from the attack in Melbourne.

Rico Nekelo’s mother, Mate Carnahan, said it had been mentally hard for loved ones, and his sister Charlotte Vemoa said it was a “very violent attack. Nine

His mother said the government was failing victims.

“He didn’t ask this to happen to him. They’re failing,” she said.

His alleged attacker was arrested at the scene but released pending further inquiries.

Meanwhile, Nekelo will be unable to work for months.

“It’s an everyday struggle,” he said.

Trump Assures Resolution in Iran War Talks, Calls for Patience from Both Democrats and ‘Unpatriotic Republicans

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Trump Assures Resolution in Iran War Talks, Calls for Patience from Both Democrats and ‘Unpatriotic Republicans

On Monday, former President Donald Trump fired back at both Democrats and Republicans whom he labeled as “unpatriotic” for their criticism of his approach to ending the ongoing conflict with Iran. Trump urged these critics to “sit back and relax,” assuring them that a positive resolution would eventually emerge.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed that Iran is eager to negotiate a deal that would benefit the United States and its allies. He then launched into a sharp critique of his political adversaries.

“Don’t these Democrats and seemingly unpatriotic Republicans understand that it’s far more challenging for me to effectively do my job and negotiate when political operatives keep incessantly criticizing me at unprecedented levels?” Trump wrote. He expressed frustration over calls for him to change his pace or approach, whether it involved moving faster, slower, or considering military options.

“Just sit back and relax, it will all work out well in the end. It always does,” he added, seeking to reassure his audience.

Trump’s remarks follow recent defensive actions by U.S. Central Command, which targeted Iranian radar and drone command sites on Goruk and Qeshm Island.

“The measured and deliberate strikes occurred on Saturday and Sunday in response to aggressive Iranian actions that included the shootdown of a U.S. MQ-1 drone that was operating over international waters,” CENTCOM said.

“U.S. fighter aircraft swiftly responded by eliminating Iranian air defenses, a ground control station, and two one-way attack drones that posed clear threats to ships transiting regional waters.

“No American service members were harmed. CENTCOM will continue to protect U.S. assets and interests in response to unwarranted Iranian aggression during the ongoing ceasefire.”

Kuwait meanwhile said its air defenses had opened fire early Monday morning to intercept incoming drone and missile fire. 

Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard in a statement carried by the state-run IRNA news agency that US forces had targeted a telecommunications tower.

The Guard said it responded with an attack without saying where, likely referring to the attack on Kuwait, which is home to US Army Central, the Mideast forward command for the Army.

The attacks represent the latest escalation between the two nations, even as both have insisted they are continuing to negotiate, particularly over Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. 

Last week, Trump slammed his GOP critics amid reports the US would lift its blockade of Iranian ports if Tehran disposed of its highly enriched uranium.

“I laugh at all of the Dumocrats, RINOS, and Fools who know nothing about the potential deal I am making with Iran, things that haven’t even been negotiated yet,” Trump said.

Trump lashed out at Senator Thom Tillis, lawmaker Bill Cassidy, and “major sleazebag” congressman Thomas Massie, in particular.

Cassidy, who voted to convict Trump of incitement of insurrection following the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot, was denied a third term by Louisiana Republican primary voters last month, while Massie (R-Ky.) was defeated by Trump’s hand-picked challenger, Ed Gallrein.

“These people should go home and rest, they do nothing but create division and loss. In other words, they are losers!” Trump blasted.

“The deal with Iran will either be a great and meaningful one, or there will be no deal.”

With Post wires.

Former Iowa School Superintendent Sentenced to Prison for Illegal Firearm Possession and Immigration Violations

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Former Iowa School Superintendent Sentenced to Prison for Illegal Firearm Possession and Immigration Violations

The former superintendent of Iowa’s largest school district received a two-year prison sentence on Friday, after admitting guilt in January to charges of falsely claiming U.S. citizenship on employment documents and unlawfully possessing firearms while in the country illegally.

Ian Andre Roberts, who once led Des Moines Public Schools, is slated for deportation to his home country, Guyana, in South America, upon serving his sentence, according to statements from his attorneys and reports by the Associated Press (AP).

This legal decision brings a dramatic end to Roberts’ two-decade tenure in urban education, a career that began unraveling after his detention during an immigration enforcement operation, which led to his resignation in 2025, as noted by the AP.

Prosecutors revealed that Roberts deliberately misrepresented his citizenship status on official employment records while working in a district that serves approximately 30,000 students, according to the AP.

Ian Roberts, while serving as superintendent, addressed students at Theodore Roosevelt High School in Des Moines on October 21, 2024. (Photo by Jon Lemons/Des Moines Public Schools)

During his hiring process, Roberts allegedly submitted a counterfeit Social Security card and falsely claimed U.S. citizenship in an application to the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners, which issued him a professional administrator license that year, prosecutors said.

Roberts was first arrested on Sept. 26, 2025.

According to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Roberts was in a school-issued vehicle when officials approached him.

ICE officials said Roberts sped away, abandoned the vehicle, and attempted to hide before being located with the assistance of state patrol officers.

At the time of the arrest, authorities said a loaded handgun wrapped in a towel was found under the seat, along with approximately $3,000 in cash inside the vehicle.

Under the terms of his plea agreement, Roberts acknowledged possessing four guns, including a loaded Glock handgun found in his vehicle. The remaining weapons were found during a search of his home and included a rifle, a shotgun, and another pistol.

Ian Roberts standing and speaking at a public event

Former Des Moines Public Schools superintendent Ian Roberts was arrested in 2025 on immigration and weapons charges. (Polk County Sheriff/Associated Press)

Before his time at the district, Roberts was issued a notice to appear before an immigration judge in October 2020, months before his work authorization expired, and was later subject to a final order of removal in 2024, according to the authorities.

District officials told the AP that they were unaware of any immigration-related issues involving Roberts.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) previously said Roberts had a criminal history that included a narcotics possession offense. He was also accused of unauthorized use of a vehicle, though the charge was later dropped.

Ian Roberts mugshot with ICE badge

Ian Roberts, former head of Des Moines Public Schools, has a long criminal history, the Department of Homeland Security said. (Getty Images)

Roberts’ attorneys had sought probation, but the judge rejected that request, according to the AP. Roberts expressed remorse at sentencing, the outlet reported.

Roberts, who is married to a U.S. citizen, was denied lawful permanent residency after officials said he failed to disclose prior arrests in his application, according to the AP. He reportedly said he did not believe disclosure was necessary because the charges had been dropped.

Following his detention, an audit also found Roberts had awarded district business to a consulting firm with which he had previously worked, prompting Des Moines Public Schools to review its conflict-of-interest policy, the outlet added.
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