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Iran Hints at Major Concessions Amid Crucial Trump Deal Negotiations

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On May 24, President Masoud Pezeshkian evoked one of Iran’s most potent wartime symbols, expressing Tehran’s steadfast determination to resist the pressures from the U.S. and Israel throughout the region. This move, according to a counterterrorism expert, underscores Iran’s commitment to maintaining its stance.

The timing of President Pezeshkian’s statement aligns with a crucial period in diplomatic relations, as former President Donald Trump announced that a potential accord with Tehran to conclude the conflict is “largely negotiated.” He further emphasized that the United States seeks to finalize “a great and meaningful” agreement, but is prepared to abandon negotiations if terms are not satisfactory.

Despite showing a willingness to agree with the U.S. on certain aspects, Iran has indicated that a comprehensive deal is not yet on the horizon. Discussions are ongoing as both parties work through the remaining issues.

IRAN’S FOREIGN MINISTER DECLARES NATION’S STRENGTH IN RESISTING PRESSURE: ‘NO TO THE GREAT POWERS’

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian speaking during an interview with Martha MacCallum in New York City

President Masoud Pezeshkian shared his insights during an interview with Fox News Channel’s Martha MacCallum in New York City on September 25, 2025. (Photo by John Lamparski/Getty Images)

In an X post marking the anniversary of the 1982 recapture of Khorramshahr from Iraqi forces during the Iran-Iraq War, Pezeshkian said, “Khorramshahr today is Iran, the Persian Gulf, and the Strait of Hormuz,” adding that “resistance, self-sacrifice, and repelling aggression are rooted in the culture of this land.”

Analysts claimed Pezeshkian was deliberately invoking one of the deepest ideological touchstones of the Islamic Republic — the battle that came to symbolize national resistance, civilian sacrifice and defiance against invasion.

“This is the Iran-Iraq War reference, and the timing is the point,” said Dr. Omar Mohammed, director of the Antisemitism Research Initiative Program on Extremism at George Washington University.

May 24 marks the anniversary of the 1982 liberation of Khorramshahr, the southwestern city Saddam Hussein captured early in the war and Iranian forces retook after months of brutal urban combat.

FROM HOSTAGE CRISIS TO ASSASSINATION PLOTS: IRAN’S NEAR HALF-CENTURY WAR ON AMERICANS

Iranian flag placed amid rubble next to destroyed residential building in Tehran

An Iranian flag is placed amid rubble next to a destroyed residential building near Ferdowsi Square in Tehran on March 3, 2026. (Atta Kenare/AFP)

“This is one of the Islamic Republic’s foundational mythological moments — civilian resistance, mass sacrifice, repelling an ‘aggressor army.’ Roughly what the Great Patriotic War is to Russia. The rhetorical move is the extension,” Mohammed told Fox News Digital.

“He’s mapping the 1980-82 defensive-war frame onto the current confrontation: Iran attacked by an aggressor, ordinary citizens (‘battle-untested but brave’) expected to stand and fight, with ‘resistance, sacrifice, repelling aggression’ cast as the cultural default mode.”

Some of the phrasing, Mohammed said, also evokes volunteer and Basij fighters versus a professional invading army. The analyst noted that Pezeshkian’s “Hormuz line” comment reflects a standard Iranian escalation tactic.

IRAN TO HOLD LIVE-FIRE DRILLS IN STRAIT OF HORMUZ WITH US ARMADA IN MIDDLE EAST

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and President Donald Trump standing together

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and President Donald Trump stand together in an official setting. (Majid Saeedi/Getty Images)

“Invoking the strait inside a wartime-mobilization frame — even rhetorically — is a deliberate signal, not throat-clearing,” he added.

“The Khorramshahr frame is the deepest register the regime has. It’s what they reach for to signal existential war, not a managed crisis.”

Mohammed explained that Pezeshkian’s X post is framing the current confrontation from the presidential account to send a “high-stakes message.”

“It’s also a tell on internal posture: Khorramshahr, in short, means ‘we are being invaded and we will not negotiate,’” he added.

Jacob Elordi and Kendall Jenner Spark Romance Rumors with Cozy Outing

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Jacob Elordi and Kendall Jenner have firmly established themselves as one of Hollywood’s most talked-about new couples, showcasing their affection with a public display following a dinner date this week.

The 28-year-old actor and the 30-year-old supermodel recently returned from a romantic getaway in Hawaii. On Sunday, they were spotted in Santa Barbara, both donning coordinated black ensembles and appearing visibly captivated by one another.

Elordi, known for his role in “Euphoria,” couldn’t resist showing his affection for Jenner, tenderly placing his hand on the back of her neck as they waited for their car.

Additionally, the Oscar-nominated actor was seen wrapping his arm around the reality TV star as they engaged in conversation with friends.

Dressed casually, Elordi gave Jenner his undivided attention, locking eyes with her as their relationship continues to blossom in the public eye.

Earlier this month, the new couple were seen drinking rose on the beach in Hawaii – marking their first public sighting together since news of their relationship emerged.

Jacob Elordi and Kendall Jenner cemented their status as one of Hollywood's hottest new couples with a PDA-packed after-dinner display this week

Jacob Elordi and Kendall Jenner cemented their status as one of Hollywood’s hottest new couples with a PDA-packed after-dinner display this week

The actor, 28, and the supermodel, 30, who recently enjoyed a romantic break to Hawaii, are seen deep in conversation at the Vanity Fair Oscar party in March

The actor, 28, and the supermodel, 30, who recently enjoyed a romantic break to Hawaii, are seen deep in conversation at the Vanity Fair Oscar party in March

They were later seen on a giddy double date with Jenner’s sister Kylie, 28, and her boyfriend of three years and Oscar nominee, Timothee Chalamet, 30. 

Jenner and Elordi were first romantically linked after they were seen ‘making out and all over each other’ during Justin Bieber’s post-show party at Coachella last month – with a source telling the Daily Mail that Kylie had played matchmaker. 

‘Kylie was around Jacob a lot during Timothee [Chalamet’s] award season marathon because Jacob was nominated for Frankenstein and Timothee was nominated for Marty Supreme,’ the source revealed.

‘Kylie is the alpha sister and pushed Kenny to start a romance with Jacob because she wanted to set up double dates with Timothee.’

Jenner and Elordi have been friendly for years. Elordi attended Jenner’s 2022 birthday bash and they were seen locked in conversation at the Vanity Fair Oscars party in March.

The latter followed Elordi’s Best Supporting Actor award loss (for his role as the creature in Frankenstein) at the awards ceremony.

Elordi has been linked to a slew of love interests over the years, each with varying degrees of fame. He memorably dated his The Kissing Booth co-star Joey King for a year before their relationship ended in 2018.

He then moved on to Euphoria co-star Zendaya – with the pair seen kissing in early 2020.

The new couple looked smitten as they headed out in Santa Barbara in matching black outfits

The new couple looked smitten as they headed out in Santa Barbara in matching black outfits

Elordi couldn't keep his hands off Jenner as he placed an affectionate hand on the back of her neck as they waited for their car

Elordi couldn’t keep his hands off Jenner as he placed an affectionate hand on the back of her neck as they waited for their car

A casual Elordi gave Jenner his full attention as they chatted – while their romance becomes increasingly public

A casual Elordi gave Jenner his full attention as they chatted – while their romance becomes increasingly public

Elordi was protective of Jenner as they headed out with friends

Elordi was protective of Jenner as they headed out with friends

Jenner cut a stylish figure in a black top, skirt and ballet flats

Jenner cut a stylish figure in a black top, skirt and ballet flats 

Timothee Chalamet and Jenner's sister Kylie are seen attending the 2026 Vanity Fair Oscar Party in March. They have become one of Hollywood's most surprising romances

Timothee Chalamet and Jenner’s sister Kylie are seen attending the 2026 Vanity Fair Oscar Party in March. They have become one of Hollywood’s most surprising romances 

Elordi with supermodel and ex-girlfriend Kaia Gerber in September 2021

Elordi with supermodel and ex-girlfriend Kaia Gerber in September 2021

Elordi and his Euphoria co-star Zendaya, whom he was seen kissing in early 2020

Elordi and his Euphoria co-star Zendaya, whom he was seen kissing in early 2020

Next up was Cindy Crawford’s supermodel daughter, Kaia Gerber, whom he dated for a year until late 2021.

Most recently, the Wuthering Heights star had a highly publicized several-year on-off romance with Lori Loughlin’s influencer daughter Olivia Jade Giannulli, which ended in 2025.

For her part, Jenner has enjoyed a string of famous boyfriends, including professional athletes Devin Booker and Ben Simmons, as well as rapper Bad Bunny.

Army Veteran and ‘Trump House’ Owner Dies Following Brutal Assault; Charges Likely to Escalate

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In a tragic turn of events this Memorial Day, the community of Escondido, California, mourns the loss of Kerry Sheron, the 69-year-old owner of the renowned “Trump House.” Sheron, a proud Army veteran, succumbed to injuries inflicted by a brutal assault on May 20. After battling for nearly a week in the hospital, Sheron passed away on Sunday night, leaving behind his grieving wife, Maria, and their uniquely decorated home.

The “Trump House,” adorned with vibrant posters and American flags, became a local landmark and a testament to Sheron’s unwavering political support. Its loss now echoes through the community, which had come together to show solidarity with Sheron and his family in the days following the attack.

The assault that led to Sheron’s untimely death was allegedly carried out by a neighbor, yet the authorities have not disclosed a motive, labeling the incident as “unprovoked.” This has left many in the community seeking answers and questioning the broader implications of such violence.


As the investigation continues, the impact of Sheron’s death ripples through both his local community and those who knew him as a dedicated veteran and a passionate supporter of his beliefs.


Members of the community had gathered in support of Sheron before Monday’s news:

Authorities have yet to announce a motive for the attack, which they are calling “unprovoked”:

Prosecutors allege 32-year-old Thomas Caleb Butler attacked Sheron in what officials described as an unprovoked assault.

Butler, who has been described in local reports as a Navy veteran, has pleaded not guilty to charges including attempted murder, elder abuse, criminal threats and battery.

Deputy District Attorney Ross Garcia previously told the court that Sheron suffered catastrophic injuries during the incident.

“It was a single punch to the jaw,” Garcia said. “The victim then falls to the floor, and there are subsequent hits to the victim’s head area.”





‘BLACK HEART:’ The owner of southern California’s iconic ‘Trump House’ fights for his life after a brutal attack outside his flag-covered property. His wife says she doesn’t expect him to survive.

Thomas Caleb Butler, 32, a Navy veteran, now faces attempted murder charges. He fled the scene but police tracked him down shortly after.

The victim, 69-year-old Kerry Sheron, had decorated his Escondido home with American flags and pro-Trump displays for years — drawing complaints, vandalism, and now near-fatal violence.

It’s unclear whether the two had encountered each other before. Butler remains behind bars without bail, and prosecutors have indicated the charges could be upgraded following Sheron’s passing.


MORE: ‘We Gave Up Our Yesterdays for Your Tomorrows’ — 97-Year-Old WWII Hero’s Rain-Soaked Speech Goes Viral

Thank God for These Two Men Who Show Us How It’s Done on Memorial Day


Although there have been some inspiring stories on this Memorial Day, Sheron’s death is not one of them. He deserved better.





Woman Faces Charges for Allegedly Brandishing Knife and Threatening Man in Heated Argument

By Staff Writer

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Authorities took 35-year-old Nikia Shonquise Brown into custody early this morning following allegations that she brandished a knife and threatened a man’s life during a heated argument.

At approximately 3:28 a.m. on May 25, officers from the Gainesville Police Department responded to reports of an armed disturbance in the Highland Court Manor area. They intercepted a vehicle on NE 9th Street, suspecting the driver to be involved in the incident.

The individual driving, later identified as the victim, complied by stopping the vehicle and exiting with his hands raised. He was subsequently placed in handcuffs. After being read his Miranda rights, he recounted an argument with Brown, during which she allegedly retrieved a blue-handled kitchen knife. He explained that he locked a bedroom door to pack his belongings and, upon hearing Brown declare she was stepping outside to cool off, he locked the back door to prevent her re-entry. After gathering his things, he took Brown’s truck keys to retrieve his belongings from her vehicle. However, as he stepped into the front yard, Brown also emerged with the knife.

The victim reported that, fearing for his safety as Brown threatened him with the knife, he locked himself inside her truck. When she went over to a neighbor’s house, he took the opportunity to enter his own car and drive away. Upon noticing a patrol vehicle behind him, he immediately pulled over and exited his car. The officer noted that the victim’s account remained consistent throughout multiple interviews.

A juvenile witness reportedly said he heard the argument and didn’t see much of the incident, but he saw the victim snatch Brown’s wig off her head in the bedroom. However, the officer noted that this account conflicted with both the victim’s and Brown’s stories; the witness said he never saw a knife or a gun at any point.

Brown reportedly said the victim grabbed a kitchen knife and threatened to stab her with it, so she locked the victim out of the home. She said she saw the victim taking the tag off her truck, so she left the safety of the home to keep him from stealing her tag, and when she confronted the victim at the front door, the victim snatched her wig off her head. She said the victim choked her, and the officer noted that there was a small red mark on her neck. Although the home has doorbell cameras on the front and back, Brown reportedly would not give the videos to the officer during her initial interviews.

Brown reportedly confirmed that she had called 911; the officer reviewed the call, and he reported that Brown told the call-taker that the victim had a knife and a gun. However, throughout the call, Brown can be heard shouting at the victim with expletives and asking him where her car keys are, while the victim can be heard telling her multiple times to back up.

The officer noted that the audio from the call conflicted with Brown’s account because it showed Brown making an effort to engage with the victim; the officer also reported that there was no indication that the victim had a firearm at any point.

In a subsequent post-Miranda interview, Brown reportedly changed her story and said she was locked out of the home, not the victim, and she reportedly gave the officer video from the doorbell cameras. While the officer reviewed the videos, Brown reportedly changed her story again and said the victim snatched her wig off in the back yard, not at the front door. The officer reported that he found a wig in the victim’s vehicle.

The officer reported that the first doorbell video shows Brown pacing around the back yard, holding a knife and trying to get into the home; a later video shows her “aggressively” tapping on a window with a knife, yelling at the victim to let her back inside. Later videos also reportedly show Brown holding a knife after the victim was seen holding a knife; however, while the victim is holding a knife, he can be heard pleading with Brown to drop her knife so they can talk.

Officers reportedly found a blue-handled knife near the front door and collected it as evidence.

Brown has been charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. She has no criminal convictions, but she was arrested in 2024 for allegedly driving a getaway car for two shoplifters and for making a false report of a crime after she reportedly said she didn’t know the shoplifters and they held a knife to her throat; that case can no longer be found on the court’s website. Brown’s bail will be set tomorrow.

Articles about arrests are based on reports from law enforcement agencies. The charges listed are taken from the arrest report and/or court records and are only accusations. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.


Unlock More Strength in Just 8 Minutes: The Morning Routine Redefining Fitness for Over-60s

Starting your day with a strength-building routine has its own unique benefits, particularly as you age. Engaging in morning exercises not only gets your joints moving and muscles activated but also sets a positive tone for the day ahead. For those over 60, maintaining strength is crucial as it plays a vital role in everyday activities such as standing up from a chair, carrying groceries, climbing stairs, and maintaining balance.

Having worked with numerous seniors, I’ve found that the most effective routines are often the simplest. These are exercises that can be done consistently without the need for extensive warm-ups, gym equipment, or motivational speeches. A brief bodyweight workout targeting major movement patterns can significantly enhance strength, especially when each repetition is done with precision.

This particular 8-minute morning routine focuses on two key exercises that efficiently engage several muscle groups. Bodyweight squats are excellent for strengthening the legs, hips, and core, while incline push-ups focus on the chest, shoulders, triceps, and upper body control. In just eight minutes, you’ll complete a comprehensive strength session that not only boosts your physical power but also helps you feel more alert and prepared for the day.

I’ve coached plenty of adults in this age range, and the routines that work best usually aren’t the most complicated ones. They’re the ones people can repeat without needing a long warmup, a full gym setup, or a big motivational speech just to get started. A short bodyweight session can do a lot when the exercises train big movement patterns, and you perform each rep with control.

The 8-minute morning routine uses two exercises that target multiple muscle groups in a short amount of time. Bodyweight squats train your legs, hips, and core, while incline push-ups build your chest, shoulders, triceps, and upper-body control. In eight focused minutes, you’ll get a practical strength session that helps your body feel stronger, more awake, and ready for the day.

The 8 Minute Morning Strength Routine After 60

happy woman enjoying morning coffee, concept of morning habits from longest-living people
Shutterstock

What you need: A sturdy chair, countertop, bench, or wall for incline push-ups, plus eight focused minutes.

The Routine:

  1. Bodyweight Squats
  2. Incline Push-Ups

Alternate between the two exercises for 4 total rounds.

Directions

Bodyweight Squats

Bodyweight squats strengthen the lower body muscles that support walking, standing, climbing stairs, and overall movement confidence. This exercise trains several major muscle groups at once, which makes it incredibly effective for building practical strength after 60. I often start clients with squats because they reinforce one of the most important movement patterns in daily life. Over time, stronger legs and hips help everyday tasks feel smoother and more stable.

Muscles Trained: Quadriceps, glutes, hamstrings, and core.

How to Do It:

  1. Stand with your feet about shoulder-width apart.
  2. Brace your core and keep your chest lifted.
  3. Push your hips back and bend your knees.
  4. Lower until your thighs approach parallel to the floor or a comfortable depth.
  5. Drive through your heels to stand back up.
  6. Repeat with control for the target reps.

Recommended Sets and Reps: Perform 4 sets of 10 to 15 reps. Rest for 30 seconds before moving to incline push-ups.

Best Variations: Chair squats, pause squats, slow tempo squats.

Form Tip: Keep your knees tracking in line with your toes throughout the movement.

Incline Push-Ups

Incline push-ups strengthen the chest, shoulders, triceps, and core while staying more joint-friendly than floor push-ups. The elevated position makes the movement approachable without reducing the overall training effect. I use incline push-ups often because they help clients build upper body strength while reinforcing posture and full-body tension. Consistent pushing strength supports everything from carrying groceries to getting up from the floor more confidently.

Muscles Trained: Chest, shoulders, triceps, and core.

How to Do It:

  1. Place your hands on a sturdy chair, countertop, bench, or wall.
  2. Step your feet back until your body forms a straight line.
  3. Brace your core and keep your neck neutral.
  4. Bend your elbows to lower your chest toward the surface.
  5. Press through your hands to return to the starting position.
  6. Repeat for the target reps.

Recommended Sets and Reps: Perform 4 sets of 8 to 12 reps. Rest for 30 to 45 seconds before returning to squats.

Best Variations: Wall push-ups, narrow-grip incline push-ups, slow-tempo push-ups.

Form Tip: Keep your body moving together as one solid unit.

Best Daily Habits to Build Strength After 60

Top view of single middle aged man peacefully sleeping alone in bed at night at home, full length horizontal shot with free space
Shutterstock

Strength improves fastest when your workouts pair with supportive daily habits. Your muscles respond well to frequent movement, steady nutrition, and consistent recovery. In my coaching experience, adults over 60 usually make the best progress when they focus on repeatable habits instead of chasing all-or-nothing workouts. Small efforts performed regularly tend to build the most momentum. Stay patient and keep stacking quality sessions. Use the habits below to support your progress.

  • Train consistently throughout the week. Frequent strength work reinforces muscle retention and coordination.
  • Prioritize protein intake. Aim for protein at each meal to support muscle repair and growth.
  • Walk daily. Consistent movement supports circulation and lower-body endurance.
  • Focus on controlled reps. Slower movement improves muscle engagement and joint control.
  • Progress gradually over time. Small increases in reps help maintain steady improvement.
  • Support recovery with quality sleep. Recovery helps your muscles rebuild and stay strong.

Stick with this eight-minute morning routine and these habits, and many adults over 60 begin to notice stronger movement, better stamina, and more confidence during everyday activities.

References

  1. Schumacher, Leah M et al. “Consistent exercise timing as a strategy to increase physical activity: A feasibility study.” Translational journal of the American College of Sports Medicine vol. 8,2 (2023): e000227. doi:10.1249/tjx.0000000000000227
  2. Chen, Jiping et al. “The effectiveness of exercise snacks as a time-efficient treatment for improving cardiometabolic health in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis.” Frontiers in cardiovascular medicine vol. 12 1643153. 13 Aug. 2025, doi:10.3389/fcvm.2025.1643153

New Jersey Tensions Rise: Anti-ICE Protesters Confront Agents Amid Governor Sherrill’s Denied Entry at Detention Center

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On Monday, tensions flared between anti-ICE demonstrators and law enforcement outside a detention center in New Jersey, where activists claim immigrants are being kept in substandard conditions.

In a show of protest, activists attempted to create a human blockade in front of the Delaney Hall detention facility located in Newark. Meanwhile, New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill sought entry into the building but was turned away, as reported by local media.

“This morning, my official request to enter Delaney Hall was denied, which raises significant concerns about what they might be concealing,” Sherrill said, according to a report by Patch.

The governor further stated, “I have consistently opposed private detention centers and will persist in my efforts to shut down Delaney Hall and prevent the expansion of large-scale detention centers in New Jersey, such as the proposed one in Roxbury.”

SECURITY TIGHTENS AT ICE FACILITY IN BLUE STATE WITH NEW BARRICADES AMID PROTESTER CONFLICTS

Surveillance camera mounted outside Delaney Hall detention center in Newark, New Jersey

A surveillance camera is mounted outside Delaney Hall, a detention center operated by GEO Group for Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Newark, N.J., on May 10, 2025. (Bing Guan/Reuters)

Some protesters threw water and yelled at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, who were seen detaining several demonstrators, WPIX-TV reported.

Protesters and onlookers were heard screaming at ICE agents, who ordered the crowd to move to a grassy area off the road. Agents and protesters stood face-to-face before the situation calmed down.

“No more ICE!” protesters chanted. Others shouted, “Free them all!”

ICE FACILITY DEMOCRATS ‘STORMED’ HOLDS CHILD RAPISTS, MURDERERS: OFFICIALS

Protesters blocking vehicles at Delaney Hall ICE facility in Newark

Protesters block vehicles from entering or leaving the Delaney Hall ICE facility in Newark, New Jersey, on June 12, 2025, following the reported escape of four migrants. On Monday, protesters clashed with ICE agents amid a demonstration outside the facility. (Lokman Vural Elibol/Anadolu)

Meanwhile, hundreds of detainees inside have launched a hunger and labor strike, as advocates allege they live in poor conditions and are denied medical treatment and visits. In a group letter released last week, nearly 300 detainees said they live in “inhumane” conditions, citing bad food and medical neglect.

The letter acknowledged that they entered the United States illegally, noting that they now feel “kidnapped.”

“Initially, we ask for forgiveness for the way we entered the United States, but given the circumstances we were living in our countries, which placed our lives and those of some members of our families in danger,” the letter states. “We feel vulnerable and, in a way, kidnapped—detained without justification—not to mention that we are being tortured physically and psychologically due to the poor food resources provided in these detention centers.”

A DHS spokesperson told Fox News Digital that all detainees are provided with three meals a day, clean water, clothing, bedding, showers, soap, and toiletries.

“Illegal aliens also have access to phones to communicate with their family members and lawyers, the spokesperson said. “Certified dieticians evaluate meals. In fact, ICE has higher detention standards than most U.S. prisons that hold actual U.S. citizens.”

Family members and loved ones have been holding a vigil outside the facility since Friday.

New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill and U.S. Sen. Andy Kim, D-N.J.,

New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill and U.S. Sen. Andy Kim, D-N.J., seen outside the Delaney Hall center on Monday. Democrats have called for the detention facility to be shut down amid allegations of poor living conditions for the illegal immigrants inside. (Sen. Andy Kim ; X)

In February 2025, then-Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said the facility was housing “murderers, terrorists, child rapists and MS-13 gang members.”

Several elected officials have recently visited the facility or called for its closure, including Sen. Andy Kim and Reps. Rob Menendez Jr., Nellie Pou, LaMonica McIver, Analilia Mejia, and Frank Pallone Jr.

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Politician’s WhatsApp Compromised Amid Surge in Cyber Attack Attempts

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In Brief

  • A Senate estimates hearing has revealed that a parliamentarian’s WhatsApp account was compromised in March.
  • The hacking led to WhatsApp being briefly blocked in parliament.

Earlier this year, the Department of Parliamentary Services (DPS) took the step of temporarily disabling desktop access to WhatsApp within Parliament House. This action followed an incident where a “foreign state actor” successfully hacked the account of a parliamentarian, as revealed during a Senate estimates hearing.

During the hearing on Monday, it was disclosed that the compromised parliamentarian, whose identity was not revealed, reported the breach to the department. The hack affected the WhatsApp accounts of the parliamentarian and three of their staff members, impacting both personal and DPS-managed devices on March 6.

Mike Webb, who serves as the Chief Information Officer at DPS, explained that the accounts fell victim to phishing—a cyber-scam tactic designed to trick individuals into divulging personal information.

“The goal was to gain control of the accounts, and that was indeed achieved,” Webb stated at the hearing.

Hackers managed to intercept verification codes required to access WhatsApp via a web browser, enabling them to breach the accounts.

In response to the hacking, the DPS contacted the Australian Signals Directorate and temporarily blocked the messaging service from the parliamentary computing network over the coming weekend on desktop devices.

Webb told the hearing evidence suggesta “a foreign state actor” was behind the hacking.

“There’s lots of public reporting of state-sponsored WhatsApp phishing campaigns targeting government officials,” Webb said, adding that multiple countries, such as Germany and the United States, have issued warnings on this type of attack.

“So this is targeting our parliamentarians, but it is a genuine global issue.”

Nicola Hinder, deputy secretary and chief operating officer at DPS, confirmed that the department had detected 46 cases of malware and around 20,000 phishing attempts targeting parliamentarian and DPS devices this financial year.

Liberal senator James McGrath then asked if those numbers were “quite low”, and Hinder said the number of attempts was “cyclical”.

“We’ve indicated before that we’ve had high numbers, without talking about it too much,” Hinder said.

“I think there are times when we have much higher attempts, and times when obviously attention is diverted elsewhere.”


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New Study Uncovers the Mystery Behind Our Third Eye Origins

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The concept of the third eye transcends its roots in metaphysical yoga, reaching into the realm of scientific discovery.

Researchers have traced the origins of a curious median cornea, hidden deep within our heads, back to our earliest ancestors, who roamed the Earth nearly 600 million years ago. This intriguing revelation, known as the tri-cornea theory, was presented in a groundbreaking study published in the journal Current Biology.

The investigative team embarked on this journey to better understand the pineal gland, a small, pea-sized organ nestled within the human skull. Despite being secluded from sunlight, this gland plays a crucial role in regulating our body’s response to light and darkness.

Present in nearly all vertebrates, ranging from cats to frogs and humans, this third light receptor is responsible for producing melatonin, the hormone essential for managing sleep and wake cycles.


Woman with three eyes.
Artistic illustration of a woman with a third eye. diavolessa – stock.adobe.com

While medical practitioners have acknowledged the “mind’s eye” since ancient times, the origins of this enigmatic organ remained a mystery—until now.

Study author Prof Thomas Baden, a neuroscientist at the University of Sussex and co-author, said that they wanted to find out the “original solution to vision,” as well as the extent to which “different species just copied or modified it to make it their own.”

“What really are the patterns?” he wondered, per the BBC’s Science Focus Magazine. “As you do this over time, you start to wonder, what is the original eye?”

To glean insight into the evolution of our optic organ, the team looked back to one of our earliest ancestors — a small, sea-dwelling maggot from 575 million years ago.


Chart detailing the evolution of our ancestors' eyes.
Our maggoty ancestor had three eyes, two for navigation and one for detecting changing light levels. Current Biology

This critter sported two lateral eyes for navigation along with a third lens atop its noggin for monitoring light levels and staying oriented.

This design lasted until around half a billion years ago, when they started burrowing into the sediment, which meant they no longer needed their side eyes to navigate.

In accordance, our subterranean forebears ditched their lateral peepers to conserve resources, effectively leaving them with the third receptor that allowed them to discern up from down and day from night.

This cyclops-like configuration distinguished vertebrates from other lineages, which retained their lateral retinas.

What’s to account for the forward-facing lenses we have today? Eventually, some of the ancestors left the underground and returned to the sea as filter feeders, necessitating tools for navigation — in other words, we needed our eyes back.

Left with no other recourse, parts of the third eye evolved and migrated to the sides of the head, eventually developing into retinas. However, the third eye remained like an evolutionary straggler.

In doing so, they proved that both our retinas and pineal gland evolved from the same ancient organ and not separately as some experts have theorized.

Coincidentally, the study didn’t need to conduct an eye test to shed light on our ocular evolution. They simply reviewed existing scholarship and genetic data from animals such as fish and lampreys to determine how the sight organ’s function in our relatives.

Coincidentally, not all critters’ third eyes are hidden from view.

The tuatara – a bizarre, lizard-like creature from New Zealand – has a sophisticated middle orb situated prominently atop its head like some hybrid monster from Greek mythology.

Much like with humans, this eye is not used for sight, but rather to detect changes between light and dark and use this info to regulate its circadian clock.

NFL Quarterback’s Mother Addresses Controversy Over Leaked Personal Video with Former Partner

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The mother of Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis has expressed her distress following the unauthorized release of a private video featuring her son and his former girlfriend, which was leaked by online hackers.

Beth Levis disclosed that her son invested a significant amount of money in an attempt to trace how the video was distributed without consent back in May 2024. She also recounted the moment she received a call from him, revealing his shock and dismay over the incident.

Levis, who was sidelined for the whole 2025 NFL season due to shoulder surgery, was involved with his then-girlfriend, Gia Duddy, when the breach occurred.

In an interview on the Ross Tucker Football Podcast, she shared, “As a parent, you recognize the tone and emotion in your child’s voice, even from miles away. The moment he spoke, I felt an immediate sense of dread.”

“I was driving when he called, and had to pull over. I learned that my son discovered an intimate video of him and his ex-girlfriend had been widely circulated on social media platforms,” she continued.

‘And the first words out of Will’s mouth were “I’m sorry, I’m sorry, so sorry Mom”. It just broke my heart.’

Will Levis's mother Beth has spoken out on his leaked 'intimate tape' in a new interview

Will Levis’s mother Beth has spoken out on his leaked ‘intimate tape’ in a new interview 

The footage involved NFL quarterback Levis and his then-girlfriend, influencer Gia Duddy

The footage involved NFL quarterback Levis and his then-girlfriend, influencer Gia Duddy

‘It really hurt Will because he knew this was going to be something that probably a lot of people would see and it’s not meant for anybody else’s eyes, other than perhaps he and his girlfriend.’

Levis also used the interview to shoot down online rumors that her son or Duddy had leaked the footage deliberately. Levis and Duddy split in September 2023 and she had noticed people questioning if one of them had leaked the footage to upset the other.

‘There was conjecture that this video was leaked on purpose by my son or his girlfriend at the time which was not the case at all,’ she said.

‘Will actually ended up engaging in hiring a cyber security specialist and private investigator, spent an exorbitant amount of money to try and get to the bottom of this. It’s amazing you can even do this, it’s crazy these people are even available.’

Those investigators discovered that Levis had been hacked by criminals thousands of miles away. 

‘Ultimately, a lot of the content was taken down but you know, you can never scrape anything entirely off the internet,’ she added. ‘We did find out this content was stolen and his private laptop, or whatever, was actually breached and invaded a year or two earlier when he was in college.

‘We come to find out it was an eastern European hacking group who target an attractive couple and do what they do for attention. We came to terms with that, it wasn’t something malicious from somebody else.’

Mrs Levis was speaking after launching a clothing brand called ‘Chill Life Style’ where consumers are encouraged to spend less time on their phones and more time engaging with the world around them.

Levis was with Duddy when he endured draft humiliation in the first round back in 2023

Levis was with Duddy when he endured draft humiliation in the first round back in 2023

After a year out with shoulder surgery, Levis is preparing for 2026 with Tennessee Titans

After a year out with shoulder surgery, Levis is preparing for 2026 with Tennessee Titans

As for her son, he has returned to practice with the Titans as buildup begins for the 2026 season. 

He will begin the campaign behind Cam Ward, who enters his second season as the starting quarterback in Tennessee after being taken with the first pick of the 2025 Draft.

Levis, 26, is well known for his own struggles on draft night in 2023. He was widely expected to be a first-round pick and was sat in the green room alongside Duddy and his mom.

But every pick came and went without his name being called on an awkward night. He was eventually taken by the Titans at No. 33 in the second round – the Titans traded up to take him.

Levis now enters the final year of his $9.5million rookie contract with the Titans in 2026. And there’s a new era beginning with the team, too – they appointed Robert Saleh as head coach in the offseason.

They begin the season against Saleh’s former team, the New York Jets, on September 13 at Nissan Stadium in Nashville. 

Tragic Incident: Flying Umbrella Claims Life of Woman at Lake Marion Eatery


A tragic accident struck a Berkeley County family when a woman lost her life after being hit by a windblown umbrella while dining outdoors at a restaurant on the shores of Lake Marion.

The unfortunate incident took place on May 23 at the Driftwood Grill in Summerton, as confirmed by the Clarendon County Coroner’s Office.

Reports indicate that emergency responders were summoned around 7:40 p.m. to address a severe laceration. Upon their arrival, they found the woman unresponsive, suffering from critical injuries to her head and neck.

“Despite following all emergency protocols, EMS was unable to revive her,” stated Coroner Jacqueline Blackwell in an official release.

The coroner’s report detailed that the woman was enjoying a meal on the restaurant’s patio with her husband when a sudden gust of wind propelled an umbrella from a nearby table, resulting in the fatal blow.

The coroner’s office pronounced her dead at 8:43 p.m. She was identified as Dana Weinger of Huger.

An autopsy is scheduled for Wednesday at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. The death is being investigated as an accident.

The restaurant said the incident occurred as severe weather moved through the area.

In a statement posted to Facebook, Driftwood Grill expressed condolences to those affected.

“Our hearts are with the family, friends, and loved ones affected by the tragic incident during last night’s sudden severe weather event at Lake Marion,” the statement said. “This has deeply affected many people in our community, including guests, staff, first responders, and everyone involved.”

The restaurant also thanked emergency personnel who responded.