Global markets experienced volatility as President Trump confirmed tariffs on major trading partners. He paused 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada for 30 days after agreements to curb opioid fentanyl. China faces 10% tariffs and retaliated with up to 15% tariffs on U.S. goods. European economies are also at risk, with Trump stating EU tariffs “will definitely happen,” though a deal with the U.K. is possible due to balanced trade. Noah Prescott 05/02/2025 3:30 pm
The Philippines’ parliament has impeached Vice-President Sara Duterte over alleged corruption and threats against President Marcos. Duterte denies the charges, claiming a political vendetta. The impeachment, seen as escalating tensions between Duterte and Marcos, passed with 215 out of 306 votes. The Senate will now act as an impeachment court. If convicted, Duterte would be the first Philippine vice-president impeached and barred from future office, affecting her potential presidential run. The move precedes mid-term elections, seen as a referendum on Marcos and Duterte’s public support. Penelope Kingsley 05/02/2025 12:00 pm
A “seismic swarm” of hundreds of earthquakes has hit the Greek islands in the Aegean Sea, potentially lasting weeks, according to Santorini’s mayor. The quakes, up to magnitude 5, have led thousands to leave the Cycladic Islands, with increased ferry and flight services. Schools have closed, and Santorini has restricted travel and canceled events. No injuries have been reported, but some older buildings have cracks. The epicenter is moving northward, away from Santorini, with no link to dormant volcanoes. Despite the tremors, some tourists continue to visit. Noah Prescott 05/02/2025 12:00 pm
President Trump proposed that the U.S. seize control of Gaza and relocate its two million Palestinian residents to countries like Egypt and Jordan. Hosting Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, Trump suggested transforming Gaza into a hub for jobs and tourism, likening it to “the Riviera of the Middle East.” This proposal reopens complex geopolitical issues, reminiscent of past Western interventions in the region. The idea marks a significant shift for Trump, who initially campaigned on reducing U.S. involvement in the Middle East. Penelope Kingsley 05/02/2025 12:00 pm
The Aga Khan IV, spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims, died at 88 in Portugal. Ascending at 20, he led a vast philanthropic empire, focusing on health, housing, and education in developing countries. A Harvard student when chosen, he was seen as a bridge between Muslim societies and the West. His Aga Khan Development Network addressed healthcare and economic development globally. His successor will be announced later. Noah Prescott 05/02/2025 12:00 pm
President Trump proposed the U.S. take control of Gaza, transforming it into a “Riviera of the Middle East” by resettling Palestinians elsewhere. This plan, announced with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, breaks longstanding U.S. policy and drew condemnation, notably from Saudi Arabia. Critics, including Abu Zuhri, warned it could destabilize the region. Trump, likening the project to real estate development, suggested creating jobs and regional pride. The proposal coincided with a fragile Israel-Hamas ceasefire and suggested relocating over two million Palestinians to neighboring countries. Noah Prescott 05/02/2025 8:30 am
Billionaire philanthropist and spiritual leader Aga Khan, the 49th hereditary imam of the Ismaili Muslims, has died at 88 in Lisbon, Portugal. Born in Switzerland, he held British citizenship and lived in France. King Charles III, a personal friend, is deeply saddened by his passing. The Aga Khan’s charities, part of the Aga Khan Development Network, operated globally, focusing on healthcare, education, and cultural projects. He succeeded his grandfather as imam in 1957 and had an estimated fortune of $1 billion in 2008. The Ismaili community numbers about 15 million worldwide. Noah Prescott 05/02/2025 8:30 am
Mr. Trump suggested relocating Gazans to a new homeland instead of rebuilding Gaza, describing it as a “demolition site.” He proposed finding land to build new homes with ample funding. However, this idea is controversial, as it involves forced migration in a region with a history of conflict over homelands. Neighboring countries like Egypt and Jordan are reluctant to accept large numbers of Palestinians due to concerns about instability, and it’s uncertain if Gazans would willingly leave their homeland despite the destruction. Noah Prescott 05/02/2025 5:00 am
The Trump administration and El Salvador’s president announced a deal to send detained migrants and imprisoned citizens to El Salvador, which is battling gangs and has suspended some rights. U.S. law prevents deporting American citizens, but El Salvador offered to accept deportees of any nationality, including violent criminals. President Bukele’s aggressive anti-crime measures have led to over 84,000 arrests since March 2022, often with little due process. El Salvador’s prisons, already overcrowded and violent, now include the new Terrorism Confinement Center, known for harsh conditions. Penelope Kingsley 05/02/2025 5:00 am
The Aga Khan, spiritual leader of 15 million Ismaili Muslims, died at 88 in Lisbon. Known for his wealth, philanthropy, and success in horse racing, he owned the famous thoroughbred Shergar. His wealth, estimated between $800 million and $13 billion, came from inheritance, horse breeding, and investments. Born in Geneva in 1936, he became imam at 20, succeeding his grandfather. He was a direct descendant of the Prophet Mohammad and invested heavily in global development to combat poverty and extremism. His successor will be announced later. Ava Sinclair 05/02/2025 5:00 am
