📰 The Intercept · 50
United StatesU.S. and Iran peace talks postponed and U.K. PM Keir Starmer braces for leadership battle: Morning Rundown
Peace talks between the U.S. and Iran have been postponed following Vice President JD Vance's cancellation of a planned trip to Switzerland. This decision comes amid intensified Israeli strikes in Lebanon, which have raised concerns about the future of efforts to end the ongoing conflict. The talks were meant to begin a 60-day negotiation period aimed at resolving key long-term issues and achieving a permanent cessation of hostilities. Switzerland's foreign ministry confirmed that the meeting at the Bürgenstock resort will not proceed, though no specific reason for the postponement has been给出.
Senate delays Jay Clayton’s nomination for intel director after Trump post
The Senate delayed the confirmation hearing for Jay Clayton, President Donald Trump's nominee to be the next director of national intelligence, following Trump's decision to cancel it due to political disagreements with Democrats. Trump cited frustrations over a lapsed surveillance tool and a stalled voter ID bill as reasons for the cancellation. He also linked the approval of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act Section 702 program to his SAVE America Act election reform proposal. Trump stated that the hearing would be postponed until Jamie McDonald is confirmed as U.S. Attorney. In the
Trump-Loving Crypto Super PAC Finally Backs a Democrat: Ritchie Torres
A crypto super PAC known for supporting Republicans and praising former President Donald Trump has spent $300,000 to support New York Representative Ritchie Torres in his Democratic primary election. This marks the first time the Fellowship PAC has backed a Democrat. Torres, a prominent supporter of the cryptocurrency industry and a member of the House Committee on Financial Services, is expected to win the primary without significant opposition.
YouTuber Ms. Rachel Visits 'Traumatized' Children at Delaney ICE Facility Week After Antifa Rioters Attacked Agents There
Children’s YouTuber Ms. Rachel (real name Rachel Accurso) visited children at the ICE Delaney Hall detention center in Newark, New Jersey, one week after Antifa rioters attacked federal agents at the facility. In an Instagram post, she described the children as 'traumatized' and criticized the conditions at the detention center. She encouraged her followers to support the New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice. The incident occurred shortly after Antifa protesters blocked access to the facility and attacked officers. One protester, Brendan John Geier, was accused of biting a police officer,
Africa CDC Warns Congo Ebola Outbreak Could Be Worst in History
Jean Kaseya, director of the Africa Centers for Disease Control (Africa CDC), warned that the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) could become the worst in history if containment efforts fail. He noted that many individuals exposed to the virus remain untraced and untested. While the current outbreak has resulted in 782 cases and 181 deaths, health officials believe the actual numbers may be significantly higher due to challenges in diagnosis and tracking, including political instability and resistance from local populations. The outbreak, officially declared a
Trump's shadow AI policy
The Trump administration initially advocated for minimal government involvement in the AI industry, opposing regulations that could hinder innovation. However, rather than implementing a clear regulatory framework, the administration has resorted to a series of ad hoc interventions, voluntary guidelines, and executive actions. This approach has created a 'shadow AI policy' that influences the industry without formal rules. While Congress has attempted to address AI governance, legislative progress remains stalled due to upcoming midterm elections, allowing the administration to take the lead.
Undercover Cops Infiltrated Delaney Hall ICE Protest to Spy and Make Arrest
Undercover detectives from the Newark Police Division were deployed to monitor and gather real-time information during protests outside the Delaney Hall ICE detention facility in June. The operation led to the arrest of Samuel Becker, who is accused of throwing items into a fire during a prior protest. The protests were organized in response to reports of poor conditions and staff retaliation at the facility.
Britain Just Issued Another Shocking Ban for People Under 16. This One Is Going to Be a Fight.
The UK government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, announced a ban on social media for individuals under 16 starting in spring 2027. The decision follows legal actions against companies like Meta and YouTube for creating addictive products that harm young users. The policy is part of a broader initiative to improve online safety for children, following a large public consultation. Public reactions vary, with some expressing concern over the impact on youth and others questioning the effectiveness of such measures.
Police Chased the Wrong Man, Then Shot Him and Watched as He Bled Out
On January 6, 2026, police responded to reports of a white van being driven erratically near Ypsilanti, Michigan. Officers located the van, intentionally crashed into it, fired 27 shots at the driver, and watched as 34-year-old Navy veteran John Andrew Jenuwine bled out and died. The initial dispatch described 'two Black guys' driving the van and brandishing a handgun, but Jenuwine was white, driving alone, and unarmed. Jenuwine's parents were later told by law enforcement that their son had been involved in a shootout, which contradicted the facts. No weapon was found in Jenuwine's van.
ICE’s Unseen Toll in Minneapolis: Suicide Helpline Calls More Than Doubled During Surge
A Human Rights Watch report reveals the significant impact of Operation Metro Surge, an immigration enforcement campaign by federal agents in Minnesota, on local communities. The report, based on over 130 interviews, video analysis, and government data, highlights various abuses, including lethal violence, free speech violations, and unlawful detentions. Notably, the National Alliance on Mental Illness in Minnesota reported a 120% increase in calls related to suicidal thoughts and actions during the operation. Healthcare providers documented cases where minors attempted suicide following the拘留
Feds Charge Activist Mob That Plotted Against ICE
Federal authorities have charged 15 individuals linked to an activist group in Minneapolis with plotting to interfere with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. The group, Direct Action Minnesota, is accused of embedding itself in legal demonstrations to conduct more aggressive actions against ICE agents. Twelve individuals were arrested by Homeland Security Investigations. These charges come amid ongoing protests in Minnesota against the Trump administration's immigration policies.
How Did the Feds Get Into Anti-ICE Activists’ Signal Messages?
The article discusses how the U.S. Department of Homeland Security used evidence from Signal encrypted messaging apps to indict 15 individuals involved in anti-ICE activism in Minnesota. The indictment relies heavily on messages from over a dozen Signal groups, raising concerns about the security of encrypted communications. While the indictment does not explicitly explain how law enforcement accessed these messages, it suggests that authorities may have obtained access through physical devices.
Are Jeffries and Schumer Getting Ready to Greenlight Domestic Spy Power for Trump?
The article discusses Democratic lawmakers' potential support for Jay Clayton's nomination as director of national intelligence, despite his past skepticism about election integrity. It highlights concerns among privacy advocates regarding the renewal of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which expired recently, and calls for adding a warrant requirement to the surveillance law.
Once a Target of TrackAIPAC, Ro Khanna Gains Its Endorsement
Progressive California Congressman Ro Khanna, following a primary victory and speculation about a potential 2028 presidential bid, has received an endorsement from TrackAIPAC, an organization known for criticizing lawmakers who accept funding from the pro-Israel lobby. Khanna previously faced criticism from TrackAIPAC over his legislative record, despite not accepting funds directly from AIPAC. He has accepted funding from J Street, a liberal Zionist group. Khanna signed a new TrackAIPAC pledge called 'PEACE,' which includes commitments to reject AIPAC-aligned funding, recognize Israel's role
OpenAI files confidential SEC paperwork for IPO, opening the door to a Wall Street debut
OpenAI has filed preliminary, confidential paperwork with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), signaling its potential move toward an initial public offering (IPO). This development positions OpenAI as part of a growing group of major artificial intelligence companies preparing for Wall Street debuts, including rivals like Anthropic and SpaceX. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman previously indicated that an IPO could be the most viable path for the company due to its size and the substantial capital required for technological advancement. The company emphasized that no final decisions haveyet
Trump Admin Wants to Make It Easier for White Men to Sue for Discrimination
The chair of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), Andrea Lucas, appointed by President Donald Trump, proposed to rescind an affirmative action rule implemented nearly 50 years ago. This rule, established under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, aimed to prevent discrimination in employment. Lucas argues that the rule has hindered her efforts to represent white men who claim they faced workplace discrimination. The proposal aligns with her broader strategy to challenge employer diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives as forms of racial discrimination. Former EEOC委员 J
U.S. Casualties in Iran Are Still Rising
The article discusses rising U.S. casualties in the conflict with Iran, despite ongoing ceasefire negotiations. It highlights the agreement between the U.S. and Iran for a second ceasefire and the potential reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The piece references Iranian officials celebrating a 'victory' over the Trump administration and notes the high civilian toll in Iran, particularly from a strike on an elementary school. The article also criticizes the Pentagon's underreporting of U.S. military casualties, citing The Intercept's previous reports and a U.S. government official's description
Bernie Sanders Backs Justin J. Pearson, House Candidate at the Heart of Tennessee Voting Rights Fight
Bernie Sanders has endorsed Justin Pearson, a progressive candidate running for Congress in Tennessee's 9th District. Pearson became the frontrunner in the Democratic primary after longtime incumbent Steve Cohen withdrew due to gerrymandering. Pearson faces a strong Republican challenge and plans to run on a platform addressing wealth inequality and corporate power, aiming to attract both disaffected Republicans and Democrats.
Thune says Senate will move FISA bill without SAVE America Act, rebuffing Trump
Senate Majority Leader John Thune stated that the Senate will attempt to pass an extension of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA)'s Section 702 surveillance provisions as a standalone bill, without attaching the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE America) Act, despite pressure from President Trump to combine the two measures. Thune emphasized concerns about national security risks if Section 702 expires and noted that passing the SAVE America Act separately would be 'unrealistic.' He also mentioned that the confirmation of Jay Clayton as director of national intelligence,
Trump Celebrates Achieving Absolutely Nothing in Iran
The article discusses the Trump administration's claims of concluding its conflict with Iran, despite failing to achieve any of the original goals set by President Donald Trump. It highlights that the proposed deal would restore the pre-war status quo, with the Strait of Hormuz reopened but no nuclear agreement in place. The article notes that the U.S. has not significantly weakened Iran's military or political structure, and Trump suggested a potential U.S.-led economic arrangement for Middle Eastern countries.
An Army Whistleblower Believed in Pete Hegseth — Until the Military Covered Up Her Child’s Abuse
Amanda Feindt, a U.S. Army major and former whistleblower, supported Pete Hegseth's Senate confirmation as Defense Secretary. However, she later became critical of the military after her 4-year-old son suffered psychological harm while in the care of the North Post Child Development Center at Fort Belvoir. Feindt reported significant delays and obstruction from military officials when trying to obtain information about her son's treatment, which experts suggest reflects a broader pattern of minimizing accountability for child abuse cases.
Civil Records for Hundreds of Thousands of Lebanese Could Be Wiped Out By Israel’s Total War
The article discusses concerns raised by Lebanese officials and residents regarding the potential destruction of civil records in southern Lebanon due to Israel's military actions. Aerial images show damage to areas where official documents such as civil registration files and land deeds were stored. Residents fear this destruction could leave hundreds of thousands of Lebanese without proof of property ownership, complicating post-war reconstruction efforts.
They Weren’t Convicted of Terrorism, But These Palestine Activists Got Sentenced as Terrorists Anyway
Four UK-based Palestine solidarity activists were sentenced as terrorists for damaging military drones and equipment at an Elbit Systems UK factory in 2024. The activists, affiliated with the Palestine Action network, received enhanced sentences under anti-terrorism laws despite not being convicted of actual terrorist offenses. This marks the first instance in the UK where 'criminal damage' convictions have been classified as terrorism. The article highlights concerns over the legal precedent this sets, particularly in contrast to sentencing for white supremacist-related crimes.
Indiana Banned Press From Executions for “Dignity.” It Actually Serves Repression.
The article discusses Indiana's ban on media access to executions, arguing that the policy undermines public oversight of state-sanctioned executions. It references the author's personal experience with a friend's execution in 2006 and criticizes the rationale provided by Indiana officials, which is framed as a concern for the dignity of the condemned.
ICE Should Show It Hasn’t Been “Infiltrated by Violent Extremists,” Senator Urges
Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, a Democrat, has requested that newly confirmed Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin address concerns regarding the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) social media content, which he claims exhibits racist language potentially inspiring far-right violence. Whitehouse referenced a March bulletin from the Colorado Information Analysis Center, obtained by The Intercept, warning that DHS recruitment posts used language associated with neo-Nazis and could encourage white supremacists to join ICE. The bulletin highlighted specific examples where such posts led,
Graham Platner and big races for governor: What to watch in Tuesday’s primaries
The article discusses the upcoming gubernatorial primaries in Maine and South Carolina, highlighting the competitiveness of these races. It also mentions the Senate race in Maine involving Democrat Graham Platner, who is expected to win despite facing controversies. The piece notes that Democratic Governor Janet Mills has withdrawn from the race due to lack of support and funding. Additionally, it points out that the focus of the election will be on the margins of victory in the Senate primaries, which could indicate potential weaknesses for the candidates.
D.C. Mayor Candidates Are Fixating on Teen Hangouts — and Turning the Cops on Them
D.C. mayor candidates Kenyan McDuffie and Janeese Lewis George are using the issue of 'teen takeovers' — large gatherings of teenagers in public spaces — as a focal point in their campaigns. McDuffie advocates for stricter enforcement of curfews for minors, arguing it is necessary to protect community safety and prevent potential issues. He criticizes his opponent, Lewis George, for opposing such measures. Both candidates previously supported emergency curfew powers during the federal oversight period of D.C.
A Point-by-Point Breakdown of Trump’s Failed Iran War Objectives
The article analyzes former President Donald Trump's claims regarding the outcomes of the U.S.-Iran conflict, concluding that the administration failed to achieve any of its stated objectives. It highlights Trump's initial declaration of victory following a joint U.S.-Israel strike on Iran, only for the conflict to continue escalating. Recent events include U.S. military actions against Iran after the downing of an Apache helicopter, with Trump threatening further attacks unless Iran agrees to a peace deal. The article critiques Trump's rhetoric and contrasts it with the ongoing nature of the
Fire Bari Weiss!
The article discusses the controversy surrounding Bari Weiss, former CBS News executive, following the firing of 60 Minutes correspondent Scott Pelley. Pelley alleges that Weiss engaged in politically motivated mismanagement of the show, including pressuring correspondents to include distortions and lies in their reports. Specifically, Pelley claims Weiss instructed him to alter a segment on the ICE siege of Minneapolis to portray protesters as more violent and to suggest that a victim was driving toward her attacker, despite evidence contradicting this. Pelley refused and the segment aired as
In California, a Former Biden Official Will Face Fox News Personality for Governor
In California, Steve Hilton, a conservative former political aide and Fox News personality, will face off against Xavier Becerra, a former Biden administration official and former California attorney general, in a gubernatorial runoff. Hilton, endorsed by former President Donald Trump, finished second in the nonpartisan primary, while Becerra, who ran a low-profile campaign emphasizing his experience, will seek to capitalize on expected strong Democratic support in the November election. The article notes that Becerra faced criticism for actions during his time as attorney general, including a
Graham Platner Wins in Maine, Turning Anti-Establishment Fight on Susan Collins
Graham Platner, a political newcomer and oyster farmer, won the Democratic primary for Maine's Senate seat, defeating other candidates in a landslide. He is set to challenge Republican Senator Susan Collins in the general election. Despite controversy surrounding his past, including inflammatory Reddit posts, a tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol, and allegations of inappropriate behavior, Platner's populist message resonated with voters in Maine.
Democratic Socialist Overcomes GOP-Funded Opponent to Advance in Los Angeles Mayor Race
Los Angeles City Councilmember Nithya Raman, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, advanced to the general election ballot against incumbent Mayor Karen Bass after finishing second in the recent primary. This sets up a runoff between two Democrats in November. Raman faced challenges from the entrenched Democratic machine, but mail-in voting helped shift momentum in her favor. The primary included right-wing reality TV star Spencer Pratt, who was funded by conservative groups, prompting debates within the city's left about how to vote in the open primary.
“Warehousing Human Beings”
Hundreds of detained individuals at a GEO Group-run immigration detention center in Newark, New Jersey, launched a hunger and labor strike over Memorial Day weekend to protest inhumane conditions. Protesters were met with force from law enforcement, including beatings, tear gas, and arrests. Former federal appellate immigration judge Andrea Sáenz criticized the lack of medical care, poor food quality, and mistreatment by guards. The article discusses restrictions placed by the Trump administration on congressional and state officials' access to federal immigration detention centers.
Congress Is Trying to Permanently Integrate U.S. and Israeli Defense Tech
The article discusses a proposed section in the National Defense Authorization Act that aims to permanently integrate U.S. and Israeli defense technologies, including AI and autonomous systems. Military experts have expressed concerns over the implications of such integration, noting it could be difficult to reverse and raise potential risks related to AI applications.
They Were Serving the Longest Federal Sentence of Any 2020 BLM Protester. Then They Vanished in Prison.
Incarcerated activist Malik Muhammad, who received the longest federal sentence among 2020 Black Lives Matter protesters, disappeared from tracking systems in March 2024. Their attorney discovered Muhammad had been moved to a 'confidential location,' later identified as Kirkland Correctional Institute in South Carolina. Supporters reported poor conditions at the facility, including lack of adequate water.
Daughter of 2028 Olympics Chair Dreams of Competing in LA — for Israel
Casey Wasserman, head of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics organizing committee, faces scrutiny over various controversies including his past associations and financial interests. Recently, it was revealed that his daughter, Stella Wasserman, is training to compete for Israel's equestrian team in the 2028 Games, potentially creating conflicts of interest.
Philly Cops Admit That They’re Tracking “First Amendment Activity” Critical of AI
A confidential law enforcement bulletin obtained by The Intercept reveals that a Philadelphia-based fusion center has been monitoring online activity critical of artificial intelligence (AI) data centers, citing concerns over potential threats from 'domestic violent extremists.' The report highlights social media posts and news articles expressing opposition to AI development, though it notes a lack of concrete evidence of imminent threats.
House Dems Coming Around on Iran War — But Won’t Vote to Stop Israel’s Destruction of Lebanon
House Democrats passed a war powers resolution requiring congressional approval before continuing the U.S. war with Iran. However, they rejected a similar measure targeting Israel's actions in Lebanon, with 91 Democrats supporting it and 117 opposing. Democratic leaders cited drafting issues but pledged to revisit the Lebanon-focused bill. Pro-Israel Democrats argued against limiting Israel's military options in Lebanon.
The Real “Divide” Among Democrats Over Israel Is Between Party Leadership and Voters
The article discusses the growing divide within the Democratic Party regarding U.S. policy toward Israel, emphasizing that mainstream media often frames this as a conflict among Democratic voters rather than between voters and party leadership. It critiques how major outlets like the New York Times, Reuters, NBC News, and the Washington Post have portrayed the issue as a division among Democratic voters, while downplaying the role of party leadership.
Stop Calling It a Ceasefire
The article critiques how major American media outlets describe the current situation between the U.S., Israel, and Iran as a 'ceasefire,' despite ongoing military actions such as Iranian missile attacks on Kuwait and Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon. The author argues that these events contradict the idea of a true ceasefire and highlights the media's continued use of this term.
Establishment Dems Stave Off the Left in Key California Congressional Primaries
In key California congressional primaries, moderate Democratic candidates have outperformed progressive challengers. State Senator Scott Wiener won the race for Rep. Nancy Pelosi's seat in San Francisco, while incumbent Rep. Jimmy Gomez retained his position despite an ethics investigation. In Sacramento, Rep. Doris Matsui leads progressive City Councilmember Mai V.
Adam Hamawy, Doctor Who Volunteered in Gaza, Poised to Become Pro-Palestine Rep. From New Jersey
Adam Hamawy, a former U.S. Army combat surgeon who volunteered in Gaza, won the Democratic primary in New Jersey's 12th Congressional District. He received support from Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, streamer Hasan Piker, and the anti-AIPAC super PAC American Priorities. Despite last-minute negative attacks, particularly from right-wing media portraying him as an Islamic extremist based on his 1995 trial testimony, Hamawy emphasized that he was being targeted with outdated stereotypes. His campaign benefited from significant financial backing, positioning him as a strong contender against the
The Pentagon Is Running an AI Propaganda Mill Targeting Latin America
The Intercept reports that the U.S. Pentagon is running an AI-driven propaganda operation targeting Latin American audiences through a website called La Tilde. The site blends personal finance advice with content promoting U.S. military actions in the region. The article includes examples of AI-generated promotional material and highlights the site's focus on U.S. military achievements.
New York Comptroller’s Trip to Israel Raised Ethical Concerns, State Commission Said
A New York state ethics commission raised concerns about ethical violations related to a trip taken by New York Comptroller Tom DiNapoli to Israel, which was sponsored by the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York (JCRC). The trip was funded by the JCRC, an organization linked to Israel Bonds, which issues Israeli government debt in the U.S. The ethics commission approved reimbursement for the trip but expressed concerns that it could create an appearance of potential improper influence.
A Gay Palestinian Fled to Israel’s “Safe Haven.” Israel Tried to Exploit Him for Intelligence.
The article details the experience of a gay Palestinian named Kareem who fled to Israel seeking asylum after facing threats from his family due to his sexual orientation. It highlights the recent change in Israeli policy allowing LGBTQ+ Palestinians to apply for asylum, which contrasts with previous policies that denied such requests. The piece also critiques the Israeli government's use of LGBTQ+ rights as a form of 'pinkwashing' to divert attention from alleged human rights violations.
Richard Glossip on Life After Decades on Death Row
Richard Glossip, who spent three decades on death row in Oklahoma following his 1997 murder conviction, recounts his physical and emotional adjustment to life outside prison. After the U.S. Supreme Court vacated his conviction in 2025, he was released but remained under indefinite detention while Oklahoma prepared to retry him. His lawyers had previously requested bail, which was eventually granted by Oklahoma County Judge Natalie Mai.
The Los Angeles Left Is at War With Itself Over the Mayor’s Race
The article discusses the competitive landscape of the Los Angeles mayoral race, focusing on two democratic socialist candidates, Rae Huang and Nithya Raman, who are challenging the incumbent Mayor Karen Bass. The piece highlights the challenges faced by leftist candidates in building coalitions and gaining traction in the polls, contrasting them with the success of Zohran Mamdani in New York City.
ICE Pepper-Sprayed, Beat Detainees for Protesting “Horrific Conditions” in Delaney Hall Jail
Relatives of detainees and members of Congress allege that staff at the Delaney Hall Detention Facility, an ICE-operated facility in Newark managed by GEO Group, used excessive force against detainees protesting poor conditions. Reports include the use of pepper spray and batons, transfer of protest leaders, and the shutdown of family visitations. Detainees described harsh living conditions such as scalding hot showers causing injuries, presence of worms in food, and denial of medical care.
After Uvalde, Texas Stuffed Schools Full of Cops. They Brutalized Students.
The article discusses the aftermath of the 2022 Uvalde school shooting, highlighting how law enforcement failed to act promptly during the incident despite having numerous officers present. It criticizes the decision by Texas authorities to increase police presence in schools following the tragedy rather than implementing meaningful reforms such as gun control measures.
The Race to Build AI Data Centers — Before the People Can Protest
The article discusses the controversy surrounding a large data center project in northern Utah, backed by Shark Tank investor Kevin O'Leary. Critics, including Jim Walsh of Food and Water Watch, raise concerns about the project's environmental impact, particularly regarding water usage and increased fracking activity. The piece also touches on the Trump administration's regulatory rollbacks and features an interview with Jordan Uhl discussing these issues.