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Strait of Hormuz is fully open, oil prices drop like a rock

April 17, 2026 | The Guardian

Oil tankers at port
US-Cuba talks are underway in Havana
April 17, 2026 — reported by Axios
The US State Department held rare talks in Havana with Cuban leaders, urging political and economic reforms while offering support like Starlink internet, Axios reports. The meeting signals renewed diplomatic engagement, but also a warning that the US may act if Cuba's crisis worsens without change.
Iran agrees to suspend nuclear program
April 17, 2026 — reported by Bloomberg
President Donald Trump claims Iran has agreed to suspend its nuclear program indefinitely and will not receive any previously frozen funds from the US. He also said a broader deal to end the conflict is largely complete, with further talks on a final agreement expected this weekend.
Suspicious bets on falling oil prices just minutes before Iran announcement
April 17, 2026 — reported by Reuters
A $760 million bet on falling oil prices was placed just 20 minutes before Iran announced the Strait of Hormuz was open, triggering a sharp drop in crude. The well-timed trades are part of a broader pattern now under investigation over potential insider advantages tied to major war-related announcements.
ICE is on a hiring spree... without proper vetting
April 17, 2026 — reported by AP News
An ICE hiring surge tied to a major expansion of deportation efforts has brought in some recruits with troubling backgrounds, raising concerns about vetting and training. Critics warn the rapid hiring push may increase risks of misconduct, even as the agency defends the qualifications of most new officers.
Pentagon ramping up plans for military operations in Cuba
April 17, 2026 — reported by USA Today
The Pentagon is quietly ramping up contingency planning for potential military operations in Cuba as tensions rise, though both countries are also exploring a deal to ease the crisis. Reports of the plans have circulated in Washington, even as early-stage talks suggest a possible path toward improved relations.
Trumps says Hormuz blockage remains in effect for Iran only
April 17, 2026 — reported by BBC
President Donald Trump said the Strait of Hormuz is open for global trade but confirmed a U.S. naval blockade targeting Iran will remain in place until a final deal is reached. He added that negotiations are close to completion and could wrap up quickly.
Senate passes extension of FISA surveillance law
April 17, 2026 — reported by The Guardian
The Senate voted to extend the controversial FISA surveillance law for 10 days, delaying a longer-term decision after lawmakers rejected broader renewal proposals. The short-term extension keeps warrantless foreign surveillance powers in place for now, as debate continues over privacy concerns and national security.
Elon Musk wants universal high income paid for by the government
April 17, 2026 — reported by X/Twitter
Tweet by Elon Musk:

Universal HIGH INCOME via checks issued by the Federal government is the best way to deal with unemployment caused by AI.

AI/robotics will produce goods & services far in excess of the increase in the money supply, so there will not be inflation.
35 million Americans facing tornado threats this weekend
April 17, 2026 — reported by ABC News
More than 35 million people across the central US are at risk of severe storms on Friday, with multiple tornadoes already reported in several states. Forecasters warn the greatest threat of damaging winds is focused across Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri, with a tornado watch in effect for several areas.
US transportation department wants to hire gamers as air traffic controllers
April 17, 2026 — reported by Semafor
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy suggested recruiting gamers to help address the air traffic controller shortage, arguing their multitasking skills translate well to the job. The initiative has drawn strong early interest, even as broader concerns persist over aviation disruptions tied to government funding issues.
White House negotiating deal with Anthropic despite blacklist
April 16, 2026 — reported by Axios
The White House is in talks with Anthropic about giving federal agencies access to its powerful new AI model, despite the Pentagon blocking the company over security concerns and an ongoing dispute.
Acting ICE director Todd Lyons resigns
April 16, 2026 — reported by Mediaite
The acting director of ICE has resigned after a long career, saying he'll remain briefly to help with the leadership transition at DHS. His tenure was marked by aggressive deportation efforts, internal tensions, and mounting pressure from the administration.
Analina Mejia (D) wins New Jersey special election
April 16, 2026 — reported by The Guardian
Democrat Analilia Mejia won a New Jersey special House election, defeating Republican Joe Hathaway on a campaign centered on opposing Donald Trump. Her victory keeps the seat in Democratic hands and boosts momentum for the party ahead of the midterms.
Trump nominates Erica Schwartz as new CDC director
April 16, 2026 — reported by BBC
President Donald Trump has nominated Dr. Erica Schwartz to lead the CDC after months of leadership instability at the agency. The move comes amid ongoing controversy over vaccine policy changes under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and recent clashes that led to the ousting of the previous director.
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