QUICKREADS

Donald Trump's new probe targets critical minerals for possible tariffs amid national security concerns
President Trump has initiated an investigation into critical minerals and rare-earth metals, potentially leading to new tariffs as part of his ongoing trade disputes. The probe aims to assess national security risks from reliance on foreign imports, particularly from China. The Department of Commerce has 180 days to report, following Trump's earlier investigations into pharmaceuticals and semiconductors.

Vinay Prasad, FDA’s Indian-origin vaccine pick, claimed ‘God wants Trump’ is old post
Indian-origin hematologist Vinay Prasad appointed FDA's Center for Biologics director, despite past controversial social media posts praising Trump and criticizing COVID-19 vaccine mandates for children, bringing his critical perspective to the agency.

Jeff Bezos, Lauren Sanchez have hired Grammy-winning artists to perform at their wedding: Report
Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez reportedly hired Lady Gaga and Elton John to perform at their upcoming Venice wedding in June, though one source denies the claim. The couple's lavish ceremony continues to generate significant media speculation.
Supreme Court allows Trump's transgender military ban: Here's how justices voted
Supreme Court lifted lower court's injunction, allowing Trump's transgender military ban to proceed. Thousands of troops face potential dismissal, with justices' voting split along ideological lines and liberal justices publicly dissenting.

Don’t have a REAL ID yet? Here's what happens after May 7 and how to avoid it
The deadline for obtaining a REAL ID is May 7, after numerous delays. While travelers will still be able to fly without a REAL ID, they may face extra steps at TSA. REAL IDs are federally compliant IDs required for domestic flights and federal access. Check your state?s guidelines for obtaining a REAL ID, as deadlines are firm.

Columbia University lays off nearly 180 researchers due to Trump funding cuts
Columbia University announced layoffs of nearly 180 researchers due to the cancellation of federal grants by the Trump administration, citing antisemitic harassment on campus. The university is facing financial strain and will continue to seek restoration of funding. The administration had previously threatened to withhold billions more, affecting other institutions like Harvard, which is challenging the funding freeze.

Trump floats ‘marriage’ with Canada, PM Carney fires back: 'Not for sale' | White House meet
Trump and Carney met at the White House, discussing tense trade relations. Trump suggested a "marriage" with Canada, but Carney firmly responded, "Not for sale." They aim to maintain friendship despite economic disagreements and tariff challenges.

Billionaire hedge fund manager issues chilling stock market warning: ‘We'll probably go down’
Billionaire Paul Tudor Jones warns stock market will hit new lows due to ongoing tariffs, Fed's rate stance, and potential tax increases, predicting economic challenges despite potential tariff reductions by Trump.
Conclave to pick new pope begins on May 7. But who are the antipopes?
133 cardinals will gather in Vatican City on May 7 to elect Pope Francis's successor. An antipope is a competing papal claimant, historically causing church divisions during periods of political or doctrinal conflict, with the Western Schism being a notable example.

Donald Trump announces halt in Houthi ship attacks, US ceases bombing in Yemen
President Trump announced the US will halt bombings of Yemen's Houthi rebels, citing the group?s indication to cease attacks on Red Sea ships. Despite the Houthis not publicly confirming this, Trump described the situation as "very positive." This development coincides with ongoing US-Iran nuclear negotiations, with officials set to meet in Oman.

75 Indians, including 12 women, cleared to climb Mount Everest this season
As of Monday, Nepal's Department of Tourism has granted climbing permits to 441 climbers, including 79 women, from 55 countries for Mt. Everest this spring. The government has collected approximately Nepalese Rs 653.8 million in royalties. Over 8,000 climbers have summitted Everest, with many reaching base camp, as rope-fixing efforts continue for the ascent to the peak.

Tornado watch issued for 41 Texas counties; Check floods, severe thunderstorm warnings here
Tornado watch issued for 41 Texas counties through Tuesday at 4 p.m., covering areas from Austin to Houston. Potential for severe thunderstorms, large hail, damaging winds, and possible tornadoes. Residents advised to stay alert and prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.

What Conclave movie gets right and wrong about the real process of electing Pope
The film Conclave depicts the papal election process, showcasing cardinals from different regions voting in the Sistine Chapel. While capturing some authentic rituals, the movie takes dramatic liberties with secrecy rules, character interactions, and external information access during the conclave.
Israel fires on Yemen's Sanaa airport as tensions with Houthis intensify
The Israeli military launched strikes on Sanaa International Airport in Yemen, targeting civilian planes and infrastructure amid escalating tensions with Iran-aligned Houthi rebels. This follows recent Houthi missile attacks on Israel and Israel's retaliatory strikes in Yemen, resulting in casualties. The Houthis threaten to impose an aerial blockade on Israel, intensifying the conflict linked to the Gaza war.

Saudi Arabia, US to discuss deal in mining, mineral resources, cabinet says
Saudi Arabia plans to negotiate a cooperation agreement with the U.S. on mining and mineral resources, as announced by the Saudi cabinet. This comes ahead of President Trump's upcoming visit. The kingdom is expanding its mining sector as part of its Vision 2030 strategy, aiming to diversify from oil, with significant mineral reserves recently discovered.

Friedrich Merz becomes Germany's new Chancellor
Friedrich Merz clinched Germany's chancellorship after a second parliamentary vote, following an initial unsuccessful attempt. The leadership transition marks a significant moment in German political landscape.