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A 61-year-old woman has died after a ski gondola detached from its cable and plunged down a mountainside at a resort in the Swiss Alps, authorities have confirmed. The accident occurred on Wednesday morning at the Engelberg ski resort. Police said the gondola became detached from the cable at around 11:00 local time for reasons that remain under investigation. Get today's headlines by email The cabin, part of the Titlis Xpress, had just departed from the Trübsee station and was ascending the mountain when it fell. Gondola falls after detaching mid-ascentVideo footage circulating online appeared to show the gondola tumbling down the slopes of Mount Titlis, flipping several times before coming to rest. Officials confirmed the victim, a local resident, was the only passenger on board at the time. Weather conditions under scrutinyWitnesses reported strong winds in the area at the time of the accident, with some describing a sudden jolt before the gondola came loose. Investigators are examining whether weather conditions may have played a role in the incident, though no official cause has yet been determined. Local police in the canton of Nidwalden said inquiries are ongoing to establish exactly how the detachment occurred. Emergency response and service suspensionEmergency services, including air rescue teams, paramedics and police, were deployed to the scene. Despite their efforts, the woman was pronounced dead. Following the incident, the cable car service was immediately suspended. Reports indicated that between 100 and 200 passengers were affected by the disruption, though no further injuries were reported. Shock among witnesses and operatorsResort officials expressed condolences to the victim’s family. Norbert Patt, director of the lift operations, said the company was deeply shocked by the accident. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and disbelief. A teenage skier at a nearby camp said she felt frightened after witnessing the crash, adding that some visitors were hesitant to use gondolas afterwards. The tragedy has raised fresh concerns about safety in alpine transport systems, with authorities expected to conduct a full investigation into the circumstances of the crash. oin the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 19 March 2026 View full article

The family of a US college student who disappeared while on a trip to Spain has issued an urgent appeal for information, as police continue their investigation in Barcelona. James “Jimmy” Gracey, a 20-year-old student at the University of Alabama, was last seen in the early hours of Tuesday morning outside the Shoko nightclub in the Port Olímpic area of Barcelona. Get today's headlines by email According to relatives, a friend saw him at around 03:00 local time. He was later reported missing after failing to return to his accommodation that morning. Last seen near city nightclubHis family said he was wearing a white shirt, dark trousers and a chain with a gold cross. He is described as approximately 6ft 1in tall and weighing around 175 pounds. Police investigation under wayAuthorities in Spain have launched a search, led by the Mossos d'Esquadra. Officials confirmed they are investigating but have not released further details about the circumstances of his disappearance. Gracey’s mother said his mobile phone had been recovered after being stolen, though it is now in police possession. The US State Department said it could not comment on the case, citing privacy considerations. Family describes ‘out of character’ disappearanceIn a statement, the family described Gracey as “kind, responsible, and devoted,” adding that it was highly unusual for him not to remain in contact. “He is completely out of character for not checking in with family and friends,” they said, urging anyone with information to come forward. Gracey, who is from Elmhurst, Illinois, had travelled to Spain to visit friends studying abroad. His father has since travelled to Barcelona to assist with the search. University officials said they are in contact with those close to the student and are offering support where possible. Growing concern among friends and communityFriends and fellow students have also voiced concern, describing him as reliable and supportive. At university, he is involved in student life, including leadership roles within a fraternity. His disappearance comes amid heightened awareness of risks faced by young travellers overseas. Last year, another American student went missing during a spring break trip abroad and has not been found. Authorities have advised that, in such cases, families should contact local police as well as US diplomatic services when a citizen cannot be reached. The search for Gracey is ongoing, with his family continuing to appeal publicly for information that could help locate him. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 19 March 2026 View full article

A United States Navy warship believed to be transporting additional Marines to the Middle East has been tracked approaching a key maritime chokepoint near Singapore, according to ship monitoring data. The amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli was observed nearing the Strait of Malacca on Tuesday, based on Automatic Identification System (AIS) data. The vessel appeared off the coast of Singapore, a busy shipping hub at the edge of the South China Sea. Get today's headlines by email Naval vessels do not always broadcast their location, but may activate tracking systems when passing through congested waterways to reduce the risk of collision. Vessel movement tracked near SingaporeMaritime tracking data indicated the ship had travelled from Okinawa through the South China Sea, maintaining a speed of around 22 miles per hour. Marines deployed for potential operationsReports suggest the vessel is carrying personnel from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, a forward-deployed unit based in Okinawa, Japan. The unit comprises around 2,200 personnel and is designed for rapid deployment across a range of operations, including evacuations, amphibious assaults and crisis response missions. Officials familiar with the deployment said the Marines were being sent to the Middle East, although specific details about their destination and role have not been disclosed. US Central Command has previously stated that approximately 50,000 American troops are already stationed in the region amid the ongoing conflict with Iran. Capabilities of the assault shipThe USS Tripoli is one of the US Navy’s largest amphibious vessels, measuring nearly 850 feet in length and displacing about 45,000 tonnes. It functions similarly to a small aircraft carrier, capable of operating advanced aircraft such as F-35 stealth jets and MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft. The ship is also equipped to deploy landing craft and troops directly onto shore. Typically, such vessels operate as part of a broader amphibious ready group, often accompanied by transport dock ships including the USS New Orleans and the USS San Diego. However, it remains unclear whether those accompanying ships are part of the current deployment. Strategic contextThe movement of additional US forces comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, where conflict involving Iran has led to an increased American military presence. While US officials have not publicly outlined the mission of the incoming unit, Marine Expeditionary Units are typically deployed to provide flexible, rapid-response capabilities in volatile environments. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 19 March 2026 View full article

An 11-year-old boy in the United States has been charged with first-degree murder following the death of his five-year-old brother, in a case described by legal experts as highly unusual. Prosecutors in Colorado confirmed that the child faces a first-degree murder charge, along with an aggravated juvenile offender sentence enhancement. The case is being handled by the 18th Judicial District Attorney's Office. Get today's headlines by email The younger boy died on 10 March at a home in Centennial, Colorado, a suburb of Denver. Authorities said the 11-year-old was subsequently taken into custody. Rare charge against a minor Officials from the Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office confirmed the arrest but have released few details about the circumstances surrounding the death. Limited information releasedInvestigators have not disclosed the cause of death or further information about the alleged incident. Prosecutors said such details remain confidential due to laws protecting juvenile records. The boy is currently being held at the Marvin W. Foote Youth Services Center. Authorities emphasised that while the allegations are serious, the accused remains a minor and is entitled to legal protections under the juvenile justice system. Legal and community impactLegal analysts say it is extremely rare for a child as young as 11 to face a first-degree murder charge, which typically requires proof of intent. One expert noted that children of that age are often considered not to have the mental capacity required to meet the legal threshold for such a charge. Even having an 11-year-old testify in court can be uncommon, as judges may need to determine whether the child understands the meaning of giving evidence under oath. Local officials acknowledged the emotional toll of the case. In a statement, Sheriff Tyler Brown said the incident had deeply affected the wider community. He added that cases involving the deaths of children are among the most challenging for investigators and can have a lasting impact on families, schools and neighbourhoods. Ongoing investigationThe case remains under investigation, with no further details released about what led to the younger child’s death. Authorities have urged the public to respect the privacy of the family involved, as the legal process continues. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 19 March 2026 View full article

Senior US intelligence officials have told lawmakers that Iran’s governing system remains in place but has been significantly weakened by recent military strikes, offering the first public assessment since the conflict escalated. During a congressional hearing, Tulsi Gabbard said the Iranian regime was “intact” but “largely degraded” following attacks on its leadership and military infrastructure. Leadership under pressureHer remarks came as she appeared alongside senior figures including John Ratcliffe and heads of other intelligence agencies to outline global threats facing the United States. Gabbard noted that damage inflicted during recent strikes had weakened Iran’s operational capacity, particularly in its military and command structures. However, she indicated that the core governing system continues to function. The hearing marked the first time US intelligence leaders have publicly addressed the situation since the war began in late February. Dispute over ‘imminent threat’The session also highlighted divisions within the US government over whether Iran posed an immediate danger prior to the conflict. Gabbard declined to directly answer questions from Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff about whether she had assessed Iran as an imminent threat before the strikes. Instead, she said that determination ultimately rests with the president. Her position contrasted with comments from Joe Kent, who resigned a day earlier. In his resignation letter, Kent stated that Iran had not presented an imminent threat to the United States and criticised the decision to go to war. Ratcliffe disagreed with that assessment, telling lawmakers that Iran had long posed a danger and represented an immediate threat at the time of the strikes. Nuclear programme and military damageGabbard said US and Israeli operations had “largely destroyed” Iran’s military capabilities and inflicted serious damage on its nuclear infrastructure. She added that intelligence agencies believe Iran is attempting to recover from that damage but continues to fall short of its international nuclear obligations. In prepared remarks, she had initially described Iran’s nuclear enrichment programme as “obliterated,” though she did not include that wording in her spoken testimony. When questioned by Senator Mark Warner, Gabbard said time constraints led her to shorten her statement. Strait of Hormuz concernsOfficials also confirmed that US intelligence had long anticipated the risk of Iran targeting the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route. Gabbard said the intelligence community had assessed that Iran would likely attempt to disrupt traffic through the waterway in the event of conflict. She added that the Pentagon had taken precautionary steps based on those assessments. Ratcliffe told lawmakers that the president receives regular intelligence briefings and that military planners had prepared for potential attacks on US-linked energy infrastructure across the region. Ongoing scrutinyLawmakers from both parties used the hearing to question the intelligence basis for the war and the extent to which officials were involved in decision-making. Senator Angus King asked whether intelligence leaders were present when final decisions were taken, though Ratcliffe said he could not point to a single defining moment. The hearing comes amid continuing debate in Washington over the justification for the conflict and its wider implications, as well as concerns about escalating tensions in the region. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 19 March 2026 View full article

China’s ability to withstand a major energy shock is being tested as the war involving Iran disrupts oil shipments through one of the world’s most critical maritime routes. The conflict has effectively halted tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a key passage for global النفط flows, triggering shortages and driving up prices. Countries across Asia that rely heavily on Gulf energy supplies have been forced into emergency measures, highlighting the scale of disruption. Get today's headlines by email Since strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran in late February, oil markets have been thrown into volatility. Prices have surged to near $120 per barrel at times, as attacks on infrastructure and shipping intensified. Oil disruption shakes global marketsRoughly a fifth of the world’s oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz, making its disruption particularly significant. The shortage has forced countries to search for alternative suppliers or draw down strategic reserves. The impact has been especially severe in parts of Asia. The Philippines has introduced shorter working weeks to reduce fuel consumption, while Indonesia is attempting to conserve limited reserves that could otherwise run out within weeks. China’s exposure and reservesAs the world’s largest oil importer and second-largest consumer after the United States, China depends heavily on foreign crude to power its economy. The country consumes an estimated 15 to 16 million barrels of oil per day, much of it used in transportation. A significant portion of these imports comes from Gulf producers, including Saudi Arabia and Iran. Despite sanctions, Iran has remained a major supplier of discounted crude to China, with reports suggesting Beijing purchases a large share of Tehran’s exports. However, China has spent years building up strategic reserves. Estimates suggest stockpiles could range from around 900 million to over 1 billion barrels, providing a buffer equivalent to several months of imports. In addition, tens of millions of barrels of Iranian oil are currently stored in tankers near the South China Sea. Authorities have also reportedly taken steps to conserve supply, including limiting fuel exports to prioritise domestic needs. Shift towards energy resilienceChina’s longer-term strategy has focused on reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels. The country has rapidly expanded renewable energy, becoming a global leader in wind, solar and hydropower. According to official data, more than a third of China’s electricity came from non-fossil sources in 2025, with clean energy capacity continuing to grow. Oil now accounts for only about a fifth of total energy consumption. The rise of electric vehicles has further reduced reliance on oil. With EVs making up a substantial share of new car sales, some consumers are less exposed to fluctuations in global fuel prices. Uncertain outlookAnalysts say China’s combination of large reserves and diversification into renewable energy has placed it in a stronger position than many of its regional neighbours. However, continued disruption to global supply chains — particularly if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed — could still strain the system over time. While Beijing appears better prepared than most, the unfolding crisis is likely to test the resilience of even the most robust energy strategies as the conflict continues. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 19 March 2026 View full article

Donald Trump has warned that the United States could target Iran’s vast South Pars gas field if Tehran continues strikes against energy infrastructure in Qatar, marking a sharp escalation in rhetoric as tensions intensify across the Gulf. In a social media post, Trump said Washington would “massively blow up the entirety” of the South Pars field if Iran persisted in attacking Qatari facilities. The warning followed a series of missile strikes by Iran on Qatar’s major energy hub, which caused significant damage but no reported casualties. Get today's headlines by email Qatar confirmed that Iranian missiles struck Ras Laffan Industrial City, home to one of the world’s largest liquefied natural gas export terminals. Officials described the damage as extensive, with emergency teams deployed to contain fires at the site. Strikes hit major energy facilitiesThe attack came after Israel targeted Iran’s South Pars gas field, the world’s largest natural gas reserve shared between Iran and Qatar. It marked the first known strike on Iran’s gas production infrastructure since the conflict began in late February. Trump denied any prior knowledge of the Israeli operation, stating that the United States had not been involved and that Qatar had no warning of the attack. Rising tensions and military considerationsThe developments underscore a widening regional conflict, with both sides increasingly targeting energy infrastructure. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has warned it could extend attacks to oil and gas facilities in other Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Meanwhile, reports indicate the United States is considering deploying additional forces to the Middle East, raising concerns that the conflict could broaden further. Global markets have reacted sharply. Oil prices rose significantly following the latest attacks, reflecting fears of prolonged disruption to supply chains. The Strait of Hormuz — a critical route for global oil and gas shipments — has seen a steep decline in tanker traffic amid ongoing threats. International calls for restraintEuropean leaders have urged de-escalation. Emmanuel Macron called for an immediate halt to strikes on civilian infrastructure, particularly energy and water facilities, following discussions with regional leaders. Germany’s foreign minister warned that continued disruption to energy supplies could trigger a severe global crisis, while Gulf states also expressed alarm at the growing risks to energy security. The United Arab Emirates described attacks on energy sites as a “serious escalation,” warning of environmental and economic consequences. Qatar condemned the Israeli strike on South Pars as “dangerous and irresponsible” and has expelled Iranian diplomatic staff in response to Tehran’s actions. Risk of wider conflictIranian officials have vowed retaliation, with President Masoud Pezeshkian warning that attacks on energy infrastructure could have “uncontrollable consequences” extending beyond the region. The conflict has already had a significant impact on global energy markets, with oil prices climbing sharply since the outbreak of hostilities. Analysts warn that continued disruption — particularly in the Strait of Hormuz — could have far-reaching effects on inflation, trade and global economic stability. As both sides signal readiness to escalate further, diplomatic efforts are intensifying to prevent a broader regional crisis. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 19 March 2026 View full article

The cost of applying for a UK passport online could rise above £100 for the first time, under new plans announced by the Home Office. If approved by Parliament, the proposed changes would see the standard online application fee for adults increase from £94.50 to £102. Fees for children would also rise, from £61.50 to £66.50. Get today's headlines by email The government said the increase is intended to move the passport system closer to full cost recovery, meaning users rather than taxpayers would cover more of the service’s expenses. Broad increases across servicesThe proposed changes, expected to take effect from 8 April, would apply across a range of application methods. For postal applications within the UK, adult fees would rise from £107 to £115.50, while child applications would increase from £74 to £80. Premium services would also become more expensive. The one-day fast-track option, commonly used for urgent travel needs, would increase from £222 to £239.50. Applicants based overseas would face higher charges as well. Online applications from abroad would cost £116.50 for adults, up from £108, and £75.50 for children, up from £70. For paper applications submitted overseas, adult fees would rise to £130 from £120.50, while children’s applications would increase from £82.50 to £89. Government justificationAccording to the Home Office, the fees help cover the cost of processing passport applications, providing consular assistance to British nationals overseas, and managing border services for UK citizens. Officials said the move reflects a broader policy of reducing reliance on public funds for such services. The department also advised travellers to apply well in advance of planned trips, particularly during peak periods such as school holidays when demand can increase processing times. Recent rises and processing timesThe latest proposal follows a series of recent increases, with passport fees rising by 9% in 2023 and a further 7% in 2024. Processing times in the UK are typically up to three weeks, although delays can occur during busy periods. If the new pricing structure is approved, it would mark another step in a gradual increase in passport costs, with the standard online application crossing the £100 threshold for the first time. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 19 March 2026 View full article

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has refused to say whether he personally discussed Peter Mandelson’s past association with Jeffrey Epstein before appointing him as the UK’s ambassador to the United States, as pressure mounted in Parliament over the handling of the decision. Facing repeated questions during Prime Minister’s Questions, Starmer did not confirm whether any direct conversation had taken place with Mandelson. Instead, he acknowledged the appointment had been a mistake and reiterated an apology to victims linked to Epstein. Get today's headlines by email The issue was raised by Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who challenged the prime minister over whether he had personally vetted Mandelson regarding his relationship with the convicted sex offender. Commons confrontationBadenoch accused Starmer of avoiding scrutiny and relying on staff rather than exercising direct oversight. She questioned how the prime minister could claim he had been misled if he had not spoken directly to Mandelson before making the appointment. In response, Starmer said: “This was my mistake in making the appointment, and I've apologised to the victims of Epstein.” He added that the process had since been reviewed and strengthened following advice from an independent standards adviser. However, he did not directly address whether a personal conversation with Mandelson had taken place, instead turning to criticise Badenoch over her stance on the conflict involving Iran. Documents raise concernsThe exchange follows the release of official documents indicating that Starmer had been warned about potential “reputational risk” linked to Mandelson’s past association with Epstein. The files, published after MPs voted to make them public, included references to a 2019 report suggesting Epstein had maintained a close relationship with Mandelson. The documents also noted claims that Mandelson had stayed at Epstein’s residence in 2009 while the financier was in custody. Mandelson was removed from his ambassadorial role last year after further details about the relationship emerged. Starmer has previously said he was unaware of the full extent of the connection at the time of the appointment. Questions over vetting processReports have suggested that Starmer did not personally question Mandelson, instead delegating inquiries to his then chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, who later resigned amid the fallout. Mandelson has denied misleading the prime minister, saying he answered written questions about his contact with Epstein “truthfully and fully” and does not recall being asked directly about the matter in person. A spokesperson for Downing Street said after the Commons session that the correct procedures had been followed at the time and that a formal interview with the prime minister was not required under existing rules. Political tensions persistThe row underscores ongoing political tensions over accountability and transparency in senior appointments, with opposition figures continuing to press for clarity over the vetting process. While Starmer has accepted responsibility for what he described as an error of judgement, questions remain over how the appointment was handled and whether sufficient checks were carried out before Mandelson took up the diplomatic post. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 19 March 2026 View full article

Sadiq Khan has called on the Labour Party to adopt a clear pledge to rejoin the European Union ahead of the next UK general election, intensifying debate over Britain’s long-term relationship with the bloc. In remarks that diverge from the current government line, the London mayor said rejoining the EU was ultimately “inevitable” and argued that steps towards closer economic integration should begin before voters next go to the polls. Get today's headlines by email In an interview with the Italian newspaper la Repubblica, Khan said the UK should seek to rejoin both the EU customs union and single market within the current parliamentary term, which is expected to run until 2029. Push for closer ties with EuropeHe pointed to what he described as the economic, social and cultural consequences of Brexit, adding that more recent global pressures — including US tariffs and the war involving Iran — had compounded the cost-of-living challenges facing households. “The facts have changed. The evidence has changed,” Khan said, suggesting that the UK’s long-term trajectory would lead back towards EU membership. However, he stopped short of explicitly stating whether such a move would require another public referendum. Government rejects shiftDowning Street has repeatedly ruled out rejoining either the customs union or the single market, maintaining that the government’s position on Brexit remains unchanged. Khan’s intervention drew swift criticism from political opponents. A spokesperson for the Conservative Party said the comments highlighted divisions within Labour, arguing that Prime Minister Keir Starmer was “in office but not in power”. The statement also referenced other senior Labour figures, including Angela Rayner, suggesting policymaking was being driven by multiple voices within the party. Wider political debateKhan also voiced support for reconsidering aspects of the government’s proposed asylum measures, aligning himself with other Labour figures who have raised concerns about stricter migration policies. His comments come amid broader political disagreement over Brexit’s long-term impact. Critics across parties have argued that leaving the EU has harmed the UK economy, while supporters continue to back independence from European institutions. John Major recently said Brexit had failed to deliver on key promises, though he added that full re-entry to the EU was unlikely in the near term. Other political voices have taken varied positions. The Green Party has expressed support for eventual rejoining, while Reform UK has said it would oppose any move to re-enter European economic structures. Long-term outlook uncertainKhan’s remarks highlight growing debate over whether the UK should revisit its post-Brexit arrangements, particularly as economic pressures and geopolitical tensions evolve. While there is no immediate shift in government policy, the issue is likely to remain a point of contention in the run-up to the next general election, with differing visions emerging across the political spectrum. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 19 March 2026 View full article

Health authorities have issued a rare nationwide alert following a fast-moving meningitis outbreak in Kent that has claimed two lives and left dozens of suspected and confirmed cases. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warned healthcare providers across England to remain vigilant for symptoms, as officials attempt to contain what has been described as an unusually rapid spread of infection. Get today's headlines by email A 21-year-old university student and a sixth-form pupil from a local school have died amid the outbreak. Authorities say around 20 cases have now been identified, including both confirmed and suspected infections. Deaths and rising case numbersThe cluster is believed to be linked to a nightclub in Canterbury, with cases also reported among students at both the University of Kent and Canterbury Christ Church University. Health officials say the speed at which the disease has spread is highly unusual. UKHSA chief executive Susan Hopkins said investigations are ongoing to determine the cause, including the possibility of a “super-spreader” event. Vaccination and treatment effortsIn response, a targeted vaccination campaign has begun, focusing on approximately 5,000 students at the University of Kent. Hundreds of doses were administered in the first phase, with further clinics planned. Authorities have also distributed around 2,500 courses of antibiotics across Kent. General practitioners nationwide have been advised to prescribe antibiotics to anyone who visited the nightclub between 5 and 7 March, as well as to certain student groups. Officials emphasise that antibiotics remain the most effective immediate treatment, while vaccination is being used to prevent further spread. Impact on students and communityThe outbreak has had a noticeable impact on university life in Canterbury, with some students choosing to leave the area amid concerns about infection. Vaccination centres have been set up on campus, with health workers operating large-scale clinics reminiscent of the Covid-19 response. Students have been urged to take precautions, monitor symptoms and seek medical advice if needed. Families of those affected have described how symptoms initially resembled common illnesses such as flu, before rapidly worsening. Wider monitoring and responseCases linked to the outbreak have also been reported beyond the UK, including a patient in France who is said to be in stable condition after travelling from England. UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting said the situation was not a nationwide outbreak but required a coordinated national response due to the speed of transmission. Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the situation as “deeply difficult” for affected families and said efforts were under way to trace contacts and limit further infections. Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely, warning that while meningitis cases occur each year, the pace and scale of this outbreak are particularly concerning. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 19 March 2026 View full article

A senior Republican lawmaker has issued a subpoena to Attorney General Pam Bondi, compelling her to testify before Congress about the Justice Department’s handling of documents linked to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The move was announced on Tuesday by James Comer, chair of the House Oversight Committee, after a bipartisan vote earlier this month backed a request for Bondi to appear before lawmakers. Several Republicans joined Democrats in supporting the motion, highlighting growing cross-party concern over the issue. Get today's headlines by email Questions over document release In a letter accompanying the subpoena, Comer said the committee is seeking clarity on how the Department of Justice has managed its review and release of materials connected to Epstein and his associates. Lawmakers are particularly focused on compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which was passed last year and requires the department to make relevant documents public. “As Attorney General, you are directly responsible for overseeing the Department’s collection, review, and determinations regarding the release of files,” Comer wrote, adding that Bondi’s testimony would provide crucial insight into the process. Tensions with lawmakers The subpoena follows a contentious congressional hearing last month, during which Bondi declined to answer several questions about the files. The exchange drew criticism from members of both parties, including Thomas Massie, a Republican who has been vocal in pushing for greater transparency. Massie, who co-led efforts to pass the legislation alongside Ro Khanna, said he had lost confidence in Bondi’s leadership following the hearing. Expanding investigation The Oversight Committee’s inquiry has widened to include other prominent figures linked to Epstein. Subpoenas have already been issued to Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton as part of the ongoing investigation. Separately, lawmakers are also examining the role of Howard Lutnick, the U.S. commerce secretary, who has acknowledged visiting Epstein’s private island in 2012. Lutnick has denied any knowledge of wrongdoing and has not been accused of misconduct. A closed-door briefing involving Bondi and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche is expected to take place, with further public testimony anticipated in the coming weeks. Mounting political pressure Bondi has faced increasing scrutiny from both Democrats and some Republicans over the Justice Department’s approach to the Epstein case, particularly regarding the release of millions of documents. The controversy dates back months, with critics arguing that earlier disclosures contained little new information. Epstein died in custody in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges, leaving many questions unresolved and fuelling continued political and public interest. The latest subpoena signals that pressure on the Justice Department is unlikely to ease, as lawmakers push for greater transparency and accountability in one of the most high-profile cases in recent years. META: A congressional committee has subpoenaed Attorney General Pam Bondi to testify over the Justice Department’s handling of Epstein-related documents. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 19 March 2026 View full article

A U.S. federal judge has raised fresh concerns over the legality of President Donald Trump’s plan to construct a large ballroom at the White House, as he considers a renewed effort by preservation groups to halt the project. During a hearing on Tuesday, Richard Leon of the U.S. District Court expressed scepticism about the legal arguments presented by the Justice Department in defence of the $400 million development. He pointed to inconsistencies in the administration’s reasoning, describing the case as marked by “shifting theories” from the outset. Get today's headlines by email The planned ballroom, a 90,000-square-foot venue intended for state functions and major events, is being built on the site of the demolished East Wing. Construction began in October and is expected to continue through 2028, with most funding reportedly coming from private donors. Dispute over legal authorityHowever, the National Trust for Historic Preservation has challenged the project in court, arguing that it violates federal requirements. The group says the administration failed to seek congressional approval and did not carry out mandated reviews or allow for public consultation. Lawyers representing the preservationists accused the government of providing inconsistent explanations about who holds authority over the project. Attorney Thaddeus Heuer told the court officials had created confusion over several months before now, arguing that construction has progressed too far to be stopped. Government defends projectIn response, Justice Department lawyer Yaakov Roth maintained that the project rests on both public and private authority, describing it as having a “dual source of funding and dual source of authority.” Judge Leon appeared unconvinced, calling that interpretation a “brazen” reading of the law. He emphasised the symbolic importance of the White House, describing it as an “iconic” national landmark and noting that the president acts as a steward rather than an owner of the property. Ongoing legal battleThe courtroom exchange follows an earlier ruling in which Leon declined to block construction, citing procedural shortcomings in the preservationists’ initial complaint. He invited the group to revise its case, leading to the current legal challenge. In his previous opinion, Leon noted that the administration had initially suggested constitutional grounds for the project before later abandoning that argument, further complicating the legal landscape. The preservation group has now filed an updated complaint, again seeking to stop the construction. Government lawyers have urged the court not to intervene, citing national security considerations and practical difficulties in halting work already underway. Decision expected soonThe dispute has drawn criticism from historians, preservation advocates and some lawmakers, particularly over the demolition of the East Wing and the perceived bypassing of established procedures. Judge Leon indicated that he aims to issue a decision by the end of the month, which could determine whether construction continues or faces further legal obstacles. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 18 March 2026 View full article