In Zambia, the exploitation of commodity resources through illicit financial schemes has led to staggering revenue losses for the Zambian treasury, as revealed by Prof Andrew Fischer’s research. Meanwhile, a federal judge blocked the Trump administration from enforcing immigration cooperation requirements on 20 Democratic-led states, citing their likelihood of success in challenging the Department of Transportation’s policy. In sports, Inter Miami clinched a 2-1 victory over FC Porto in a FIFA Club World Cup match, with Lionel Messi’s free-kick goal stealing the spotlight. However, a concerning incident unfolded at Dodger Stadium, where Department of Homeland Security (DHS) agents were denied entry, raising questions amid recent ICE raids targeting immigrants in Los Angeles.
On the business front, Woody Johnson, owner of the New York Jets, is in talks to acquire Crystal Palace shares, potentially boosting their competitiveness in the Europa League next season. President Donald Trump’s contemplation of a strike against Iran has sparked debates on his authority to do so, with lawmakers advocating for limitations. In the realm of international affairs, escalating tensions between Israel and Iran have raised concerns about potential military intervention, while federal prosecutors in California dismissed charges against a protester accused of assaulting border patrol agents during an immigration raid protest.
In the sports arena, French Open champion Coco Gauff faced a surprising defeat at the Berlin Open, and Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappé was hospitalized due to acute gastroenteritis. Moreover, the US Department of Homeland Security issued new guidance mandating a 72-hour notice for lawmakers before visiting detention centers, amid ongoing confrontations over immigration policies. The political landscape saw a tragic shooting incident involving Minnesota state lawmakers, eliciting divisive rhetoric, while concerns arose about US involvement in a conflict with Iran based on questionable intelligence. These diverse and impactful events underscore the dynamic and evolving nature of current affairs.
