These are today’s top stories.
Headlines
Iran War Escalates
U.S. Central Command said American forces struck three Iranian oil tankers after Iran’s Revolutionary Guard targeted American naval ships. The strikes mark a sharp escalation in the monthslong standoff playing out around the Strait of Hormuz. Find out More
Iran said one of its strikes hit a U.S. Navy ship in the Strait of Hormuz as the conflict between the two countries escalated further over the weekend. The claim came amid a broader exchange of strikes in the region tied to the ongoing U.S.-Iran war. See Details
U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner arrived in Kyiv after meeting with Vladimir Putin in Moscow, part of a renewed push to broker an end to the Russia-Ukraine war. The Kyiv leg follows talks aimed at bringing both sides closer to a settlement. Find out More
Politics
Republican strategists are increasingly resigned to a midterm cycle built entirely around President Trump, even as some in the party privately worry about the risk. The dynamic is described as leaving the GOP with little room to chart its own message. Link
Former President Trump and Vice President Vance are set to headline the Republican Party’s first-ever midterm convention in Dallas. The event is being positioned as a major mobilization moment ahead of November. Source
A federal watchdog found former Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer misused funds and created a hostile workplace during her tenure. The findings add new scrutiny to her time leading the department. Source
U.S. News
A section of the Kennedy Center’s ceiling collapsed during heavy rains, raising fresh questions about the condition of the historic building. No major injuries were reported in connection with the incident. Find out More
As the country approaches the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, a personal essay reflects on how the day reshaped one American’s life and outlook. Read More
Business
Mortgage and refinance rates rose noticeably week-over-week heading into Sunday, adding pressure for prospective homebuyers. The uptick continues a choppy stretch for borrowing costs this year. Read More
Employers added 162,000 jobs in August, more than triple economists’ expectations and the largest monthly gain since March, while unemployment held steady at 4.1%. The surprisingly strong report strengthens the case for the Federal Reserve to keep raising rates, though upcoming inflation data is expected to weigh more heavily on the decision. Source
U.S. stocks closed out the week digesting a stronger-than-expected August jobs report, with markets weighing what it means for the Federal Reserve’s next move. Futures and major indexes reflected the shifting rate outlook heading into the new week. Source
World News
Vice President Vance said the Trump administration and U.S. military have helped prevent a broader energy crisis despite the ongoing war with Iran. His comments came as tensions around the Strait of Hormuz continued to affect oil markets. Source
At the flood-ravaged China-Nepal border, the fate of hundreds of people remained unknown days after catastrophic flooding tore through the region. Rescue teams continued searching the devastated area as the death toll climbed. See Details
Sailors aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln enjoyed a rare respite in Thailand, their first extended break in months amid ongoing tensions tied to the Iran conflict. The carrier has since departed the port after the visit. Source
Entertainment
Jon Bon Jovi and Jimmy Fallon are among the stars featured in a new Michael Strahan-led documentary marking 25 years since the September 11 attacks. The special is airing as part of anniversary programming across the network. Source
Lainey Wilson will host the CMA Awards for a third consecutive year, continuing her run as one of country music’s most visible ambassadors. The announcement builds anticipation for this year’s ceremony. Source
Liam and Noel Gallagher received a lengthy ovation at the Venice Film Festival premiere of a new documentary chronicling Oasis. The film adds to a wave of retrospective interest in the band. Read More
Sports
Michigan escaped with a win over Western Michigan on a Hail Mary after a disputed clock decision let the Wolverines run one more play than the Broncos believed should have been allowed. Officials have faced sharp criticism since, with many arguing Western Michigan was denied a signature upset. Source
MLB’s wild card races are heating up as September begins, with several contenders jockeying for position down the stretch. The tightening standings set up a compelling final month of the regular season. See Details
Wisconsin and Notre Dame squared off in a marquee early-season college football matchup on Sunday. The game drew national attention as both programs look to establish themselves early. Source
Off the Wall
An American Airlines flight from Dallas-Fort Worth to Newark was diverted to Baltimore after a passenger became violent and hurled racial and homophobic slurs, including at a Black flight attendant who tried to intervene. He struck a seatmate, bit another passenger hard enough to leave teeth marks, and shoved a woman attempting to help before crew and fellow travelers restrained him with duct tape to his seat. Law enforcement met the plane in Baltimore and removed the man before it continued on to Newark; the airline said it does not tolerate violence against customers or crew. Source
