President Donald Trump has ordered airstrikes against Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen

 

President Donald Trump has ordered airstrikes against Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, citing threats to global shipping and U.S. interests. The Houthis have targeted military and commercial ships in the Red Sea, particularly those associated with Israel, the U.S., and the U.K., amid the ongoing Gaza conflict. Over 100 merchant ships were attacked, causing significant economic damage and loss of lives before a ceasefire in January temporarily halted the assaults. The Houthis recently declared they would resume attacks after Israel cut off aid to Gaza. The U.S. Navy's carrier strike group, including the USS Harry S. Truman, participated in the mission to protect American assets and ensure navigational freedom. Trump's actions are also aimed at pressuring Iran, holding it accountable for supporting the Houthis and other regional proxies. The move is part of Trump’s broader strategy to counter Iran's influence and address its advancing nuclear program. The U.S. has reinstated terrorist designations for the Houthis and imposed fresh sanctions on Iran. 

APNEWS.COM

The United States and Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen are both promising further escalation following U.S. airstrikes intended to stop the rebels from attacking commercial and military vessels in the Red Sea, a pivotal global shipping route. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and President Donald Trump signaled a sustained U.S. military response until the rebels cease their activities. The Houthis, who claim their actions are in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, warned they would retaliate. The recent strikes killed at least 31 people, including civilians, and targeted multiple Houthi leaders. Despite Iran’s denial of involvement, the U.S. accuses Tehran of providing military support to the Houthis. The U.S. Navy's involvement is the largest since World War II, with a significant naval presence in the Red Sea aiding the operation. The conflict marks a significant escalation in U.S.-Houthi tensions, with broader geopolitical implications involving Israel and Iran. 

APNEWS.COM

On Saturday, President Donald Trump ordered airstrikes on areas held by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, aiming to stop their attacks on maritime routes. The strikes are reported to have killed at least 31 people, including women and children. Trump's national security adviser claimed the strikes targeted multiple Houthi leaders effectively. Trump warned Iran to cease supporting the Houthis, threatening full accountability. This comes weeks after offers for bilateral talks on Iran's nuclear program. The Houthis vowed to retaliate, asserting they would continue supporting Gaza and denying threats to shipping routes. These actions follow Israel's blockade on Gaza and threats from Houthis to resume attacks on Israeli vessels. The USS Harry S. Truman carrier strike group participated in the mission. The airstrikes mark the first by the U.S. under Trump's second administration, following similar actions during Biden's presidency against Houthi threats to commercial and military ships. 

APNEWS.COM

The U.S. military launched air and naval strikes in Sanaa, Yemen, on Saturday, following orders from President Trump, in retaliation to attacks by Iran-backed Houthi rebels against ships in the Red Sea. Trump described the attacks as a show of force towards Iran, while seeking a nuclear deal. The strikes resulted in more than 30 deaths and 100 injuries, according to the Houthi health ministry. This offensive marks the first under the Trump administration and aims to deter Iran from supporting the Houthis, who have attacked ships in an attempt to strike Israel and its allies. Iran responded by demanding the U.S. stop the violence in Yemen. 

THETIMES.CO.UK

A federal judge temporarily halted the Trump administration's attempt to use the 227-year-old Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to deport five Venezuelan nationals. This wartime measure had only been used during the War of 1812, WWI, and WWII previously. The ACLU and Democracy Forward argued this action was unlawful since the U.S. is not at war with Venezuela. President Trump claimed that gang members from Venezuela's Tren de Aragua were conducting irregular warfare in the U.S. Additionally, Trump ordered airstrikes on Yemen’s capital in response to Houthi threats, killed at least 13 civilians, and succeeded in an appeal to end support for DEI programs. Government-employed journalists at Voice of America were put on leave following Trump’s order to eliminate the USAGM. Protests against Elon Musk and his association with Trump resulted in vandalism of Tesla properties. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth continued to influence Pentagon policies aligning with his opinions from his Fox News career. Meanwhile, severe tornadoes caused 32 deaths across several U.S. states, and new travel restrictions were considered for citizens from numerous countries. 

THEGUARDIAN.COM

Mike Waltz, President Donald Trump's national security adviser, stated that the use of force against Iran is a possibility due to its support for Yemen's Houthi rebels and potential development of nuclear weapons. In an interview on ABC's "This Week," Waltz emphasized that all actions are on the table and urged Iran to heed this warning. The comments follow recent U.S. strikes on Houthi targets, which Waltz described as a significant response compared to the previous administration's approach. Iranian General Hossein Salami denied backing the Houthis but warned of a strong response to any threats against Iran. Waltz highlighted that Trump's administration would not allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon, with all aspects of Iran's nuclear program being subject to scrutiny and potential action. 

POLITICO.COM

U.S. Launches Airstrikes Against Iran-Backed Houthis in Yemen

apnews.com

Trump has ordered airstrikes against rebels in Yemen. Here's why

apnews.com

Trump orders strikes on Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen and issues new warning

thetimes.co.uk

Houthis hit by US airstrikes as Trump sends signal to Iran

Trump and Vance to Address Thousands at D.C. Anti-Abortion Rally

Anti-abortion rights activist rally on the National Mall in Washington, DC on Jan. 24.

President Donald Trump is set to deliver a video address to the annual March for Life rally on Friday, while Vice President JD Vance will speak in person to the thousands of attendees gathered in Washington, D.C.

The Bigger Picture

The rally takes place just a day after Trump granted pardons to 23 anti-abortion activists who were convicted of illegally blockading a reproductive health clinic in the nation's capital. This move underscores Trump’s ongoing support for the anti-abortion movement, despite a strategic shift in Republican rhetoric on the issue during the 2024 election campaign.

Following the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, abortion became a key issue that energized Democratic voters. In response, Trump and Vance pivoted to a policy of leaving abortion decisions to the states. This marked a departure from Vance’s earlier support for a national abortion ban and Trump’s previous suggestion that such measures were "very reasonable."

Rally Highlights

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis also addressed the rally, highlighting Florida’s recent anti-abortion measures and declaring, “Florida’s not only the place where woke goes to die; it’s the place where babies go to live.” Additional speeches were delivered by House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), reinforcing the GOP’s dedication to anti-abortion policies.

Although Trump spent Friday visiting disaster recovery sites in North Carolina and California as part of his first presidential trip of his second term, he will connect with rally attendees later in the day through a remote address.

What They're Saying

In a statement, March for Life leaders Jeanne Mancini and Jennie Bradley praised Trump’s legacy as a pro-life president. “President Trump governed as a pro-life leader during his first term, achieving a long list of accomplishments. We’re excited to work with him and Vice President Vance to counter the Biden Administration’s aggressive abortion agenda and continue securing victories for unborn children and their mothers.”

Looking Ahead

Anti-abortion groups are prioritizing efforts to limit access to mifepristone, a widely used abortion pill. However, in a December interview with Time magazine, Trump committed to protecting access to the medication, reflecting a nuanced stance as he balances advocacy for his base with broader public opinion.

A Historic Connection

Trump made history in 2020 as the first sitting president to attend the March for Life rally in person. His participation this year, even remotely, reaffirms his alignment with the movement and his ongoing influence in shaping the national conversation on abortion policy.

Wind-Driven Fires Keep San Diego on High Alert as More Santa Ana Winds Loom

Fast-moving wildfires have rattled the San Diego region, with Bonsall and Mission Valley among the hardest-hit areas. Early Tuesday, scores of residents were awakened and urged to evacuate as flames tore through dry vegetation, fueled by intense Santa Ana winds.

Rod Mitchell of Bonsall credits his dogs, Oscar and Max, with saving his life. They woke him at 2 a.m., long after he’d missed calls from his landlady. Stepping outside, he was met with flying embers and firefighters on his property. “The fireman asked, ‘Where did you come from?’ and I said, ‘I just got out of bed.’ He told me, ‘We didn’t think anyone was still up here,’” said Mitchell, 72.

Mitchell fled with his dogs but left his phone behind. By morning, he waited in his truck near a road closure, unable to return to his concrete-reinforced home.

Three fires ignited overnight in North County, the largest being the Lilac fire, which grew to 85 acres near Interstate 15 and State Route 76. Cal Fire utilized night-flying helicopters and ground crews to battle the flames as winds gusted up to 102 mph—equivalent to a Category 2 hurricane in some areas.

Meanwhile, the Friars Road fire near Fashion Valley mall swept along a hillside, prompting evacuation orders for Mission Valley and Linda Vista residents. Emergency responders knocked on doors and issued reverse 911 alerts to evacuate neighborhoods.

San Diego Fire-Rescue deployed heavy resources to combat both fires, containing 50% of the Lilac fire by late afternoon. Evacuation orders were lifted as crews worked to secure the area.

The extreme winds led to highway closures and power outages affecting nearly 16,000 customers, with warnings of additional outages. San Diego Gas & Electric took precautionary measures to prevent further wildfire risks.

While weaker Santa Ana winds are expected midweek, forecasters caution that wildfire threats remain high. Despite a potential weekend rainstorm, the region’s bone-dry conditions—only 0.16 inches of rain since July—continue to fuel concerns.

Fire crews from across the state, including units staged in San Diego for rapid response, were praised for their efforts. “The team here did an amazing job preventing further destruction,” said Battalion Chief Shawn Johnson of the Sonoma County Fire District.

The quick response and collaboration between agencies helped prevent more widespread devastation, but San Diego remains on edge as fire conditions persist.

Bitcoin Surges Amid Speculation of Crypto-Friendly Executive Order Under Trump Administration

Bitcoin joined the broader cryptocurrency rally on Friday, buoyed by reports suggesting that President-elect Donald Trump may soon issue an executive order prioritizing cryptocurrency as a national interest.

The leading digital asset climbed over 4%, trading at $104,672.37, according to Coin Metrics data. The overall crypto market also saw gains, with the CoinDesk 20 index rising another 3%, following a 4% surge on Thursday.

Crypto Industry Optimism Grows

Trading platforms like Coinbase and Robinhood benefited from the growing appetite for cryptocurrencies, with their shares advancing by more than 4% each. Smaller, high-risk coins have also seen increased interest ahead of Trump’s inauguration, with Litecoin experiencing a remarkable 30% rise over the past two days.

The optimism stems from a Bloomberg report on Thursday, which revealed Trump’s potential plans to establish a crypto advisory council, a commitment he made during his campaign. Discussions surrounding an executive order reportedly include creating a national Bitcoin reserve, as highlighted in a separate New York Times report.

Pro-Crypto Sentiment and Market Dynamics

Wall Street analysts are cautiously optimistic, noting that while a pro-crypto Congress and White House could foster innovation in the cryptocurrency industry, the market may take time to fully realize the benefits.

"Bitcoin could see a significant rally if a national reserve or stockpile is established," some investors speculate. Altcoins and other crypto projects are also poised to gain from clear and supportive regulatory frameworks, especially given their recent struggles with SEC lawsuits and alleged banking bias under the Biden administration.

Bitcoin, however, remains the focal point, with its price closely mirroring movements in the stock market. Since late December, Bitcoin has been in a consolidation phase, influenced by Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s inflation warnings. Cooling inflation reports this month have helped reignite investor confidence, with Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) recording over $1 billion in inflows in the past two days.

Potential Impact of Trump Administration Policies

Market participants are now anticipating that the incoming administration’s announcements could propel Bitcoin to new record highs. Trump’s pro-crypto stance and a new SEC chairman are seen as opportunities for a wave of cryptocurrency innovation.

JPMorgan analyst Kenneth Worthington highlighted this potential in a recent note: “The new administration and a new SEC chairman open the door for new opportunities in cryptocurrency innovation. However, we don’t see the next wave of cryptocurrency [exchange-traded product] launches as being significant for the ecosystem, given the much smaller market capitalization of other tokens and lower investor interest.”

Bitcoin’s Performance and Future Outlook

Bitcoin’s all-time high of $108,327.01 was set on December 17, 2024. It has already gained more than 11% in 2025, with many investors speculating that a pro-crypto executive order could send the flagship cryptocurrency soaring to new records.

As the market eagerly awaits Trump’s official plans for the crypto industry, one thing is clear: the stage is set for a transformative period in the digital asset landscape, with potential ripple effects for innovation and regulation in the years to come.

Biden Leaves TikTok Ban in Trump's Hands Amid Shifting Political Landscape

 

In a surprising turn of events, President Joe Biden has decided not to enforce a looming ban on the social media platform TikTok, leaving the decision to his successor, President-elect Donald Trump. The ban, initially set to take effect a day before Biden's departure, remains a contentious issue with significant political, economic, and social implications.

TikTok’s Future: A Divisive Issue

The controversy surrounding TikTok stems from concerns over its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, and potential national security risks. Last year, Congress passed legislation signed by Biden requiring ByteDance to divest TikTok by January 19, the eve of Trump’s inauguration. However, Biden has opted to defer the enforcement of this law, placing its fate squarely in Trump’s hands.

An anonymous U.S. official confirmed this approach, emphasizing the outgoing administration’s decision to let the incoming team determine the app’s future.

Trump’s Stance on TikTok

Despite previously calling for a TikTok ban, Trump has shifted his position, recognizing the platform's potential as a tool for communication and influence. His transition team has yet to outline a concrete plan, but the president-elect has pledged to ensure TikTok remains available in the U.S.

Trump’s incoming national security adviser, Mike Waltz, hinted that the administration might extend the deadline for ByteDance to divest TikTok, provided a viable deal is on the table.

Bipartisan Push to Save TikTok

The debate over TikTok transcends party lines, with prominent leaders advocating for an extension to prevent a ban. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer urged Biden to grant more time, citing the impact on millions of Americans, particularly influencers who rely on the platform for their livelihoods.

On the other side, Republican Senator Tom Cotton remains steadfast in his opposition, calling TikTok a “Chinese Communist spy app” that poses significant risks to national security and American youth.

Legal and Political Maneuvering

TikTok and ByteDance are also navigating legal challenges. The Supreme Court recently heard arguments on whether the federal law mandating ByteDance’s divestment aligns with constitutional and national security standards. Early indications suggest the court may uphold the law.

Waltz emphasized Trump’s dual priorities: protecting American users’ data while preserving TikTok as a platform. “He’s a dealmaker,” Waltz said, hinting at potential executive actions to secure an agreement that satisfies both national security concerns and user accessibility.

High-Profile Inauguration Guests

As Trump prepares to take office, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew is expected to attend the inauguration, alongside tech leaders such as Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, Sam Altman, and Jeff Bezos. This gathering underscores the broader stakes of technology and national security in shaping the country’s future.

Trump’s TikTok Journey

Trump’s evolving relationship with TikTok highlights its growing influence. Initially targeting the app for its ties to China, he later embraced the platform during his 2024 presidential campaign. His team leveraged TikTok to connect with younger voters, particularly through viral, high-energy content, which contributed to his electoral success.

The Road Ahead

As Trump takes office, his administration faces a critical decision: balancing national security concerns with TikTok’s immense popularity and economic impact. Whether through divestment, regulation, or alternative measures, the resolution of this issue will have lasting implications for tech policy, global relations, and the millions of Americans who use TikTok daily.

FDA Bans Red Dye No. 3 in Food and Drugs Following Long-Standing Health Concerns

Red dye No. 3 is found in some candy, food and beverage products.

After decades of controversy, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has officially banned the use of Red Dye No. 3 in food, beverages, and ingested drugs. This decision comes more than 30 years after scientists discovered links between the dye and cancer in animal studies.

What is Red Dye No. 3?

Also known as erythrosine, Red Dye No. 3 is a synthetic color additive derived from petroleum. It is widely used to give food, drinks, and medications a vibrant cherry-red hue. Despite its visual appeal, the additive has been under scrutiny due to potential health risks.

A Long-Awaited Ban

The FDA's decision follows a November 2022 petition submitted by advocacy groups, including the Center for Science in the Public Interest and the Environmental Working Group, which cited evidence of the dye's carcinogenic properties. California set a precedent by banning the additive in October 2023, pushing the federal agency to take action.

Manufacturers have been given deadlines of January 15, 2027, for food products and January 18, 2028, for ingested drugs to comply with the new regulations. These rules will also apply to imported products containing the dye.

Consumer Advocacy and Public Health

Advocates are celebrating the ban as a significant victory for public health. Ken Cook, president of the Environmental Working Group, described it as a "monumental victory" for consumer safety. Meanwhile, Dr. Jerold Mande, a nutrition expert from Harvard University, expressed hope that this decision signals a renewed focus by the FDA on protecting public health despite industry resistance.

Current Use and Industry Changes

Red Dye No. 3 is still present in numerous candies, beverages, and other processed foods. However, some companies have already phased it out. Ferrara, the maker of Brach’s candies, began removing the dye in early 2023, and Just Born, the company behind PEEPS, stopped using it after Easter 2024.

Many manufacturers have switched to alternatives like Red Dye No. 40, which is considered less harmful but has its own set of controversies, including links to behavioral issues in children.

The Controversial History of Red Dye No. 3

The FDA banned Red Dye No. 3 in cosmetics and topical drugs in 1990 after research linked it to cancer in lab animals. However, the additive remained approved for food and drugs ingested orally due to the lack of conclusive evidence in humans.

Critics argue that the FDA’s delayed action contradicts the Delaney Clause, a federal law prohibiting carcinogenic additives in food. Dr. Jennifer Pomeranz from New York University emphasized that the clause mandates the FDA to ban substances shown to cause cancer in animals or humans, regardless of exposure levels.

International and State-Level Comparisons

The U.S. decision aligns its food safety regulations slightly closer to those of the European Union, which banned Red Dye No. 3 in 1994, except in certain maraschino cherry products. California and other states are also leading the charge, with 10 additional states proposing legislation to restrict the dye.

Tips for Avoiding Artificial Dyes

Consumers concerned about Red Dye No. 3 can take proactive steps:

• Check ingredient labels for terms like “Red 3” or “FD&C Red #3.”
• Avoid highly processed foods, which are the primary source of artificial dyes.
• Opt for dye-free or naturally colored alternatives in both food and medications.

The Bigger Picture

Advocates stress the need for broader reform in the U.S. food system. Dr. Thomas Galligan of the Center for Science in the Public Interest called the ban a positive step but highlighted the FDA’s slow response to known health risks.

With public health and food safety increasingly in the spotlight, the FDA's action may inspire further scrutiny of other artificial additives, ensuring that consumer safety remains a top priority.

Numerous Allegations Surface Against Neil Gaiman in New York Magazine Report

Neil Richard MacKinnon Gaiman is an English author of short fiction, novels, comic books, graphic novels, audio theatre, and screenplays. His works include the comic book series The Sandman and the novels Good Omens, Stardust, Anansi Boys, American Gods, Coraline, and The Graveyard Book.

A recent New York Magazine cover story has brought to light allegations of sexual misconduct against Neil Gaiman, the renowned author of The Sandman and Coraline. Multiple women have spoken on the record, sharing their accounts of alleged experiences with the writer.

In July, Tortoise Media first reported accusations against Gaiman, unveiling claims from two women and releasing a six-part podcast titled Master. The podcast explored allegations from five women, many of whom opted for anonymity or pseudonyms. New York Magazine’s investigative piece, “There Is No Safe Word,” has since expanded on these claims, featuring interviews with eight women, four of whom were part of the podcast.

One accuser, Scarlett Pavlovich, detailed her encounters with Gaiman, which she says began after meeting his ex-wife, Amanda Palmer, in New Zealand. Pavlovich alleged that while babysitting for the family, Gaiman subjected her to unwanted advances and sexual assault, including a disturbing incident involving a claw-foot tub. Pavlovich claims the misconduct continued during her time working for the family.

The article also details a hotel encounter in Auckland where Pavlovich alleges Gaiman initiated sexual activity while his child was present. She described her reaction as one of shock and disbelief. Despite these allegations, Pavlovich remained in contact with Gaiman for some time, later signing a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) and receiving $9,200 in multiple payments. She filed a police report in January 2023, though authorities have since closed the case.

Another woman, identified only as Caroline, shared her experience as a caretaker at Gaiman’s property in New York. She alleged inappropriate advances, including an incident where Gaiman placed her hand on his genitals while his son was in bed with them. Caroline later signed an NDA and received $300,000 after initially requesting a higher amount.

Kendra Stout, who met Gaiman at a book signing at 18, claimed she was raped during a trip in 2007, despite repeatedly refusing his advances. Another accuser, Katherine Kendall, alleged Gaiman attempted to assault her on his tour bus after she had clearly expressed her unwillingness to engage in sexual activity. Years later, she received $60,000 from Gaiman, reportedly for therapy.

Representatives for Gaiman have denied all allegations, asserting that his interactions were consensual. They also addressed the BDSM-related claims, stating that such practices, when consensual, are lawful. However, the women involved argue that consent and boundaries were neither established nor respected.

The fallout from these allegations has impacted several of Gaiman’s projects. While Season 2 of Netflix’s The Sandman and Amazon’s Anansi Boys series are still slated for release, other productions, including Good Omens and The Graveyard Book, have faced delays or changes.

As the story unfolds, the entertainment industry and fans await further developments and responses from involved parties.