In a surprising move over the weekend, President Donald Trump ordered strikes on three nuclear facilities in Iran, catching global observers off-guard.
The military operation, involving U.S. Air Force B-2 bombers, came on the heels of Trump's earlier indication of a two-week decision window, allowing for potential diplomatic talks with Iran, as the New York Post reports.
Trump’s order for an attack on the Iranian nuclear sites of Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan came right after he returned from a weekend golf trip in Bedminster, New Jersey.
The wider world was led to believe that any military action was at least two weeks away. Trump had previously mentioned the possibility of waiting before making any decisions about military action, citing ongoing negotiations with Iran.
The surprise was compounded by the fact that six B-2 stealth bombers capable of delivering 30,000-pound bombs were seen leaving Missouri early on Saturday. These aircraft are known for their long-range capabilities and stealth technology, which allowed them to conduct the operation without detection until after it had been completed. However, publicly available flight schedules suggested these aircraft were unlikely to arrive in Iran until late Sunday, enhancing the unexpected nature of the strikes.
Previously, Israel had been using jets for striking nuclear facilities using less powerful, 2,000-pound bombs, lacking the capacity to deliver the heavy payloads that the B-2 bombers are capable of. The United States’ decision to employ B-2 bombers underscored the significant escalation, reflecting a capability that no other military possesses.
After the operation, President Trump publicized the success of the mission. “We have completed our very successful attack on the three Nuclear sites in Iran, including Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan,” he stated. This announcement confirmed the exit of all aircraft from Iranian airspace safely, ensuring the mission concluded without loss.
The president’s decision has surprised many given his earlier statements that he would spend “the next two weeks” considering whether or not to proceed with military action. This period was perceived as a potential opportunity for diplomatic negotiations with Iran. Trump had indicated he could decide soon based on how these talks evolved, creating an air of uncertainty around U.S. intentions.
The strikes have been framed as a preventative measure aimed at mitigating the nuclear threat posed by Iran. Significant pressure has been mounting over recent years regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions, with various parties advocating differing solutions. However, the sudden nature of these strikes has generated discussion about the potential for escalating tensions in the region.
In his address following the attack, Trump praised the U.S. military’s execution of the plan, stating, “A full payload of BOMBS was dropped on the primary site, Fordow. All planes are safely on their way home.” His statement highlighted the complex logistics and precision required for such a military maneuver and acknowledged the skill and bravery of American service members.
The impact of these strikes on future diplomatic efforts with Iran remains to be seen. While the primary intention was to prevent further nuclear developments, the attack may alter the dynamics of any forthcoming talks. The President concluded his announcement urging peace, adding, “NOW IS THE TIME FOR PEACE! Thank you for your attention to this matter,” underscoring a preference for resolution despite the aggressive stance.
Global reactions have been mixed as nations assess the implications of this sudden escalation. The unexpected attack raises questions about the broader geopolitical strategy of the United States and its willingness to use force as a tool of foreign policy.
Observers will now watch closely for Iran’s response to the attack and any consequent developments in U.S.-Iranian relations. The situation presents a challenging landscape, where diplomatic avenues could be both fraught with difficulty and urgently necessary. The coming weeks will provide insight into whether the path towards peace or further conflict will prevail.
The phasing out of existing green energy incentives leftover from the Biden administration is stirring debate among Senate Republicans, revealing divisions within the party.
This disagreement comes to light as Republicans deliberate over a new version of their legislative proposal, termed the "big, beautiful bill," as the Daily Caller reports.
The center of this conflict revolves around the proposed reductions in climate-friendly tax credits. These credits were established during Biden's administration to promote green energy projects. While some Republicans push for a considerable rollback, others advocate for less extreme measures.
The push to alter these incentives has not only highlighted policy differences but also hinted at financial motivations. Some party members are financially invested in preserving these credits for the green industry.
While crafting their latest legislative framework, titled the “big, beautiful bill,” these varied perspectives have surfaced, further complicating the party's unified front. This bill seeks to address existing energy policies.
The draft in the Senate proposes a significant reduction in climate-friendly incentives favoring green projects. However, the degree of reduction proposed is a point of contention within the party. Some Republicans argue that the current proposal is too severe compared to what their colleagues in the House are suggesting.
The differences in opinion among Senate Republicans reflect a broader debate concerning the future of energy policy in the country. There is an ongoing conversation about balancing economic interests with environmental concerns.
Attempting to finalize this legislative proposal, GOP members are seeking common ground. They aim to introduce a bill that addresses conflicting concerns about energy resources.
Some Republicans' advocacy for maintaining green energy tax credits is suggested to align with financial interests in the industry. This financial tie to the energy sector adds another layer to the party's internal debate.
These considerations are significant against the backdrop of intense lobbying efforts from stakeholders in the energy sector. Many of these stakeholders have a vested interest in preserving existing incentives.
The ongoing discussions in the Senate highlight the complexity of navigating policy decisions that have far-reaching economic and environmental impacts.
The draft proposal aims at reducing the existing green energy tax credits, viewed as crucial by many stakeholders. While some in the party favor a substantial reduction, others are interested in a more measured approach. This internal debate is occurring amid a backdrop of recent efforts by some Senate Republicans to introduce a less drastic compromise.
This reflects a broader effort to align the unified legislative strategy with various policy goals. As Republicans continue to refine their legislative agenda, the divisions within the party depict the challenges of formulating a cohesive energy policy. The balance of economic and environmental interests remains at the forefront of this dialogue.
As discussions continue, the future of energy policy in the Senate remains uncertain. The debate underscores the party's challenge in reconciling differing perspectives. The resolution of these debates will undoubtedly shape the legislative direction of the Republican Party on energy issues.
Critical decisions on the extent of the rollback of Biden-era incentives loom large over their agenda. With the legislative process ongoing, attention remains on the ultimate form of the "big, beautiful bill." This bill has the potential to decisively impact the trajectory of the United States' energy policy.
President Trump issued a stark warning to American workers during Juneteenth celebrations, claiming that federal holidays are costing the nation billions of dollars in lost productivity. The president's comments came as millions across the country commemorated the emancipation of enslaved people.
According to the Daily Mail, Trump took to Truth Social on Thursday night to express his concerns about what he perceives as too many non-working holidays. His post notably lacked any specific reference to Juneteenth itself, despite his previous history of acknowledging the significance of the day.
The president's message was clear and direct: "Too many non-working holidays in America. It is costing our Country $BILLIONS OF DOLLARS to keep all of these businesses closed. The workers don't want it either!" He went on to suggest that if the trend continues, "Soon we'll end up having a holiday for every once working day of the year."
This year's comments mark a significant departure from Trump's previous approach to Juneteenth. During his first term in office, he regularly issued statements commemorating the holiday and its historical significance for Black Americans.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the absence of any official presidential proclamation for Juneteenth this year. When questioned by reporters, she simply stated, "I'm not tracking his signature on a proclamation today. I know this is a federal holiday. I want to thank all of you for showing up to work."
The president's critique of federal holidays came on the same day businesses nationwide closed to observe Juneteenth, which became a federal holiday in 2021. While Trump claims workers don't want these holidays, many Americans embrace the opportunity to commemorate significant historical events like the emancipation of enslaved people.
In previous years, Trump consistently recognized Juneteenth with formal statements that acknowledged its importance in American history. His proclamations often highlighted the contributions of African Americans to the nation.
His 2018 statement declared, "Together, we honor the unbreakable spirit and countless contributions of generations of African Americans to the story of American greatness." The following year, he noted that "Across our country, the contributions of African Americans continue to enrich every facet of American life."
In 2020, Trump's Juneteenth message took on a more reflective tone: "June reminds us of both the unimaginable injustice of slavery and the incomparable joy that must have attended emancipation. It is both a remembrance of a blight on our history and a celebration of our Nation's unsurpassed ability to triumph over darkness."
Trump once claimed personal credit for making Juneteenth "very famous" following controversy over his 2020 campaign rally scheduled in Tulsa, Oklahoma on the holiday. The location choice sparked significant backlash given Tulsa's history of racial violence.
In 1921, Tulsa's Greenwood district, known as "Black Wall Street," was devastated by white mobs. Approximately 300 Black residents were killed, and thousands were temporarily placed in internment camps overseen by the National Guard, making Trump's initial decision to hold a rally there on Juneteenth particularly controversial.
After facing criticism, Trump rescheduled the rally and attempted to frame the situation positively, saying, "I did something good. I made it famous. I made Juneteenth very famous. It's actually an important event, it's an important time. But nobody had heard of it. Very few people have heard of it."
President Trump's latest comments about federal holidays appear focused primarily on economic considerations rather than historical or cultural significance. His claim that these observances cost the country "billions of dollars" comes without specific data to support the assertion.
The United States currently recognizes 11 federal holidays, including New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday, Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Trump has recently acknowledged other observances like Father's Day and Flag Day, though these are not federal holidays.
Trump has also taken significant steps to roll back diversity initiatives across the federal government, issuing sweeping orders to end diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, which he has characterized as "illegal and immoral discrimination programs."
Carson Hocevar has landed himself in hot water after making disparaging remarks about Mexico prior to NASCAR's Cup Series race in Mexico City. The 22-year-old Michigan native faced swift punishment from his team after describing the host city as a "s**thole" during a live stream before even setting foot on the track.
According to the Daily Mail, Hocevar made the controversial comments while discussing the upcoming race at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. His remarks came before NASCAR's first-ever Cup Series event at the venue, which is primarily known for hosting Formula One's Mexico City Grand Prix.
The young driver complained about various aspects of the experience, from travel difficulties to safety concerns, before using the derogatory term to describe the location. His comments sparked immediate backlash and prompted his team, Spire Motorsports, to take disciplinary action.
Spire Motorsports responded to Hocevar's comments by issuing a $50,000 fine and requiring him to complete cultural-sensitivity and bias-awareness training. The team emphasized that their actions aligned with their core value of respect, which they proudly display across their equipment and digital platforms.
"Respect is not a slogan. It is a daily expectation that we 'walk the walk' in how we speak, compete, and serve the communities that welcome our sport," stated Spire Motorsports in their official response. The team made it clear that Hocevar's livestream comments failed to meet their standards.
The disciplinary measures were communicated to NASCAR, which reportedly did not impose any additional punishment beyond what the team had already implemented. The fine will not go to waste, with Spire announcing the funds will be distributed to several Mexican charities.
Following his 34th-place finish out of 37 drivers at the Mexico City race, Hocevar has publicly apologized multiple times for his pre-race comments. The driver acknowledged that his opinion had changed after experiencing the event firsthand.
"My opinion has changed. I am embarrassed by my comments," Hocevar stated in his initial apology on Sunday. However, as criticism continued to mount, he issued a more comprehensive statement acknowledging his mistake and accepting full responsibility for his actions.
Hocevar later wrote: "Whoa everybody, the truth is the truth. I said something that not only was wrong, I said it without even laying my own two eyes on CDMX or turning one lap in an actual race at an amazing facility that welcomed me with open arms and I go and say that?"
The substantial fine levied against Hocevar will serve a meaningful purpose in the very country he insulted. Spire Motorsports announced that the $50,000 penalty will be distributed to three Mexican charitable organizations.
The Mexican Red Cross, Mexican United Way, and Un Kilo de Ayuda will all receive portions of the fine. The latter organization focuses specifically on combating childhood malnutrition and supporting early-childhood development initiatives throughout Mexico.
This approach turns the negative incident into an opportunity to provide support for important causes in Mexico. The distribution of funds represents a tangible way for both Hocevar and his team to make amends for the harmful comments.
Hocevar's controversial remarks and subsequent fine come at a critical time in his racing career. Currently sitting 20th in the NASCAR Drivers' Championship standings, the young driver has shown promise with second-place finishes at both Atlanta and Nashville this season.
The incident adds an unfortunate chapter to what had been shaping up as a solid rookie season for the 22-year-old. NASCAR's Cup Series continues this weekend at Pocono Raceway in Pennsylvania, where Hocevar will likely face increased scrutiny from fans and media alike.
Following his public apologies, Hocevar thanked supporters but clarified that he wasn't looking for defense of his remarks. "Thank you for the support but I'm not sure we're on the same page. You guys want me to be me? It was me who said it and it was me who apologized after actually taking the time to explore the city and feel the passion of every fan in attendance," he wrote.
President Donald Trump has indicated he will "probably" extend the looming deadline for ByteDance to sell TikTok's U.S. operations, potentially preventing the popular app from going dark for American users this Thursday. The Chinese-owned social media platform faces its third reprieve as negotiations for its sale continue.
According to a Reuters report, Trump made these remarks Tuesday while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One. The current June 19 deadline would otherwise force TikTok to shut down its U.S. services for the second time this year.
President Trump expressed optimism that a deal will eventually materialize, saying he believes Chinese President Xi Jinping will ultimately approve the sale. "Probably have to get China approval but I think we'll get it. I think President Xi will ultimately approve it," Trump stated.
TikTok's relationship with the U.S. government has been turbulent since concerns about the app's Chinese ownership emerged. The platform briefly went offline for American users on January 19, just one day before Trump's inauguration for his second term, after ByteDance failed to meet sale requirements under U.S. law.
Upon taking office, Trump granted ByteDance a 75-day extension, setting a new deadline of April 5. When that deadline passed without a sale, the president extended it again until June 19, which is now approaching without a resolution to the situation.
This potential third extension demonstrates the complex nature of forcing the sale of a global technology platform with deep ties to both American users and Chinese ownership. The stakes remain high as TikTok serves approximately 170 million Americans.
U.S. lawmakers continue to express significant concerns about TikTok's Chinese ownership, pointing to ByteDance's legal obligations to the Chinese Communist Party as a primary security issue. These worries have fueled bipartisan support for either selling the app to non-Chinese owners or banning it entirely.
The app's massive user base and influence have complicated efforts to enforce a hard deadline. With 170 million American users, any ban would create significant disruption to both consumers and creators who rely on the platform.
Trump has acknowledged having "a little sweet spot in my heart" for TikTok, crediting the platform with helping him reach younger voters during his successful 2024 presidential campaign. This personal sentiment may be influencing his willingness to grant additional time for negotiations.
The TikTok situation represents a complex intersection of technology, national security, and international relations between the world's two largest economies. President Trump must balance security concerns with the political consequences of shutting down a widely used social platform.
ByteDance faces significant challenges in finalizing any deal, as it needs approval from both U.S. regulators and Chinese authorities. The Chinese government has historically resisted forced technology transfers, viewing them as economic coercion.
Trump's comments suggest he believes the Chinese leadership will eventually relent and approve a sale, though he offered no specific timeline or reasoning for this optimism. "I think President Xi will ultimately approve it," he remarked during Tuesday's conversation with reporters.
The TikTok saga continues to evolve as the deadline approaches with no apparent immediate resolution. The pattern of extensions suggests the complex negotiations require more time than initially anticipated when the original deadline was established.
If President Trump follows through on his indication to extend the deadline, ByteDance will receive unprecedented breathing room in its efforts to satisfy U.S. requirements. This would mark the third such extension since Trump took office in January 2025.
The fate of TikTok remains uncertain as ByteDance navigates competing demands from two global superpowers. For the 170 million American users who regularly engage with the platform, the president's decision could determine whether they retain access to an app that has become deeply integrated into American digital culture.
President Donald Trump issued a stark warning Monday, calling for the immediate evacuation of Tehran as tensions between Iran and Israel continue to escalate. The declaration came days after Israel launched military strikes against key Iranian targets, raising concerns about potential further escalation in the volatile region.
According to Breitbart, Trump took to Truth Social to make his dramatic announcement, emphasizing his long-standing position that "Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon" while urging residents to leave the Iranian capital.
The president's statement followed Israel's recent bombing of key military sites in Iran. In his social media post, Trump expressed regret over Iran's failure to sign a deal he had proposed, describing the situation as "a shame, and waste of human life."
The Trump administration has consistently demanded that Iran completely halt its uranium enrichment activities rather than simply agreeing to monitoring measures. This hardline stance has created significant friction in international diplomatic efforts.
At the recent G7 summit, President Trump rejected a proposed statement on Iran because it only called for monitoring of Iran's nuclear activities instead of demanding a complete stop to enrichment. The administration maintains that enrichment beyond certain levels serves no purpose except developing materials for nuclear weapons.
This rejection highlights the administration's unwavering position on Iranian nuclear capabilities. Trump has repeatedly insisted on a complete halt to Iran's uranium enrichment program, viewing it as the only acceptable outcome of negotiations.
Israel's military campaign against Iran has intensified in recent days, with Israeli fighters reportedly achieving "total dominance" of Iranian airspace. The operations have expanded to include strikes on regime institutions in Tehran.
Among the targets hit by Israeli forces was Iran's state broadcaster, indicating a shift from purely military objectives to wider governmental infrastructure. These developments mark a significant escalation in the conflict that began with Israel's initial attacks on military targets.
The Israeli Defense Forces claim to have destroyed approximately one-third of Iran's missile launchers, substantially degrading Iran's offensive capabilities. This military success appears to have strengthened Israel's position in the ongoing conflict.
In a dramatic turn of events, Iran has reportedly sent messages to both Israel and the United States expressing a desire to end the conflict. These communications suggest Iran might be willing to abandon its nuclear enrichment program to preserve the regime.
Reports indicate Iran's eagerness to negotiate directly with President Trump, potentially marking a significant shift in the Islamic Republic's position. This apparent willingness to compromise comes as Israeli forces continue to demonstrate military superiority in the region.
The timing of Iran's outreach coincides with increasing pressure from Israeli military operations and the firm stance taken by the Trump administration regarding nuclear enrichment. This combination appears to have pushed Iranian leadership toward seeking diplomatic solutions.
President Trump's evacuation warning represents one of the most direct American interventions in the escalating conflict. His statement that "IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON" underscores the administration's primary concern in the ongoing crisis.
The situation remains highly volatile, with Israeli forces continuing operations while Iran signals a potential willingness to negotiate. The Trump administration's rejection of monitoring-only proposals at the G7 summit reinforces its position that nothing short of a complete cessation of nuclear enrichment will be acceptable.
As tensions continue to rise in the region, the international community watches closely to see whether diplomatic channels will prevail or if further military escalation will occur. The outcome could significantly reshape power dynamics throughout the Middle East for years to come.
President Donald Trump has officially thrown his support behind Arizona Congressman Abe Hamadeh, endorsing the freshman representative for reelection just months after he began his first term in the House.
According to Fox News, Trump issued a "Complete and Total Endorsement" for Hamadeh on his Truth Social platform, describing the Arizona Republican as "an America First Patriot" who "WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!"
The endorsement comes less than six months into Hamadeh's congressional tenure, signaling early support from the president for the lawmaker's future political aspirations. Trump previously endorsed Hamadeh in December 2023 ahead of the 2024 GOP primary for Arizona's 8th Congressional District.
Trump's relationship with Hamadeh has evolved since the 2024 election cycle when the president initially backed the freshman lawmaker for his first congressional run.
In an unusual political move before the 2024 contest, Trump issued a dual endorsement for both Hamadeh and another Republican primary candidate, Blake Masters. Despite sharing Trump's endorsement with another contender, Hamadeh ultimately prevailed in the primary and went on to win the general election.
The president's renewed and exclusive endorsement now solidifies Hamadeh's position as Trump's preferred candidate in the district. This early support could discourage potential primary challengers and help Hamadeh secure his position in a traditionally Republican-leaning district.
Since taking office, Hamadeh has worked to establish himself as an outspoken conservative aligned with Trump's agenda in the House.
In February, the Arizona Republican introduced a resolution aimed at limiting the types of flags that may be displayed in House facilities. The measure would restrict displays to the American flag and select others, including state flags of represented districts and flags of visiting foreign dignitaries during official visits.
Hamadeh defended his proposal earlier this month on social media, writing: "Congress is supposed to embody the AMERICAN people. That's why I've introduced a resolution to ban foreign and ideological flags in the Halls of Congress. It's pathetic that I even have to introduce this resolution."
The freshman congressman's flag resolution has gained traction among his Republican colleagues in the House of Representatives.
Six House Republicans have signed on as cosponsors of the measure according to congress.gov, with three joining as original cosponsors and three more adding their support this month. The growing list of supporters suggests Hamadeh's position is resonating with at least some members of the GOP conference.
Hamadeh recently expressed his admiration for President Trump in a June 14 letter marking both Trump's 79th birthday and the Army's 250th anniversary. In the message, he credited Trump with inspiring "young men and women to fearlessly serve our country in our nation's Armed Services and the halls of Congress."
Trump's endorsement of Hamadeh reinforces the president's focus on maintaining Republican control in key congressional districts.
The early and emphatic support for Hamadeh demonstrates Trump's continued influence within the Republican Party and his direct involvement in shaping congressional races ahead of the next election cycle. By issuing endorsements well before campaign season begins in earnest, Trump is working to solidify his preferred candidates across the electoral map.
Hamadeh, who won his seat in the 2024 election cycle, represents Arizona's 8th Congressional District, covering parts of Maricopa County. His alignment with Trump on policy issues and his public displays of loyalty to the president likely factored into securing this early endorsement.
The Trump administration has issued a directive for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to pause raids targeting specific industries in the country. The directive, aimed at protecting workers in industries such as agriculture, hotel, and restaurant sectors, signals a shift in the administration’s deportation policies.
The new Trump policy comes on the heels of reported distress among workers and management in these industries as a result of aggressive immigration enforcement measures, as The Hill reports.
In recent weeks, ICE conducted rapid detentions in California, leading to broad public backlash and demonstrations. There were significant concerns raised about the conditions of detentions and their impact on the workforce.
High-ranking officials in the administration, including senior ICE official Tatum King, communicated the new policy to regional leaders. King instructed leaders to halt all operations in agriculture and leisure-related industries effective immediately.
Following significant protests against workplace raids, Trump emphasized the importance of protecting workers essential to key industries. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed the new direction, pledging to align enforcement efforts with the fresh directive. Tricia McLaughlin, a DHS spokesperson, noted the agency would focus on removing “criminal illegal aliens” considered threats to public safety.
In light of the protests in California and subsequent unrest, National Guard soldiers and Marines were deployed to Los Angeles to ensure the stability and safety of the area. The protests, which have drawn attention to the treatment of detained workers, reflect broader opposition within certain community groups to heavy-handed immigration strategies.
Statements from industry representatives highlight ongoing challenges as businesses navigate the implications of reduced workforce availability due to stringent enforcement. President Donald Trump addressed these concerns in his social media statement, stressing that actions will protect workers vital to the economic health of sectors like agriculture and hospitality.
Despite the shift, ICE remains committed to its broader mission of removing individuals who pose security threats. King’s communication underscored the agency's dual focus on moderating enforcement in certain areas while maintaining vigilance against those identified as significant security risks.
Trump's directive points to a broader attempt to balance security concerns with the economic vitality of key sectors. By easing enforcement in these areas, the administration aims to provide relief to communities and industries heavily impacted by prior raids. In doing so, the administration works to reassure both business leaders and workers of their safeguards in place.
Industry groups have cautiously welcomed the shift in policy, noting the potential for stabilization in staffing levels. Agriculture and leisure sectors have consistently argued that the availability of skilled workers is crucial for operations, pointing to the unique challenges they face in training and retaining new employees.
While the administration’s new approach seeks to address immediate workforce concerns, it remains to be seen how the policy will evolve over time. DHS and ICE officials stand ready to adjust strategies in response to evolving security assessments and economic realities.
Community leaders and immigrant advocacy groups are watching closely as these changes unfold, eager to see how the administration's directives will be implemented at the ground level. The balance between enforcement and protection of essential workers continues to be an ongoing area of focus, prompting dialogue about future immigration reform.
With these adjustments, President Trump’s administration is working to recalibrate its immigration policies to account for pragmatic economic considerations. The decision to pause raids in specific sectors represents a significant shift in strategy, aimed at alleviating industry pressure while maintaining public safety and security.
President Trump's 79th birthday celebration coincides with a massive military parade marking the Army's 250th anniversary, but forecasts of stormy weather threaten to dampen the festivities in Washington, DC. The White House remains determined to proceed with the event despite potential weather challenges.
According to the New York Post, White House deputy press secretary Anna Kelly affirmed the administration's commitment to the celebration. "Any changes to the Army Birthday Parade will be announced by the Department of Defense or America 250 Commission," Kelly stated.
Weather forecasts predict scattered thunderstorms potentially striking around 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, precisely when the parade is scheduled to begin. The day is expected to be cloudy and humid, with temperatures around 80 degrees, with thunderstorm risks increasing from mid-afternoon onward.
An Army spokesperson told The Times of London that while rain alone wouldn't halt the proceedings, lightning presents a serious safety concern. "Rain won't stop us, the tanks don't melt, but if there's lightning then that puts the crowd at risk... they will disperse the crowd and even cancel or postpone the parade," chief spokesperson Steve Warren explained.
The parade preparations have already begun, with rows of tanks arriving in Washington this week. Approximately 150 military vehicles will be displayed alongside over 6,500 soldiers and 50 aircraft, according to Army statements.
A reviewing stand continues to be constructed in front of the White House ahead of Saturday's events. Following the parade, additional celebrations, including a concert at The Ellipse and fireworks, are planned, though these could also be affected by the weather conditions.
The massive military spectacle carries a substantial price tag estimated between $25 million and $45 million. This expenditure has drawn criticism from some who question whether such a display represents an appropriate use of resources.
President Trump has dismissed these concerns, characterizing the cost as "peanuts" compared to the value of celebrating America's military strength. "We have the greatest missiles in the world. We have the greatest submarines in the world. We have the greatest army tanks in the world," Trump told NBC News.
The parade represents a significant show of military might, featuring advanced weapons systems and equipment. Critics have questioned the necessity of such displays, though military parades have precedents in American history.
White House representatives emphasized their commitment to honoring the military regardless of weather conditions. "No matter what, a historic celebration of our military service members will take place!" Kelly assured the public.
The Department of Defense has deferred comment on contingency plans to the Army, which had not immediately responded to requests for additional information at the time of reporting. The final decision regarding any postponement may ultimately rest with the president himself.
Fox Weather meteorologist Samantha Thomas confirmed the weather outlook for Saturday, noting increased chances of thunderstorms beginning around 3 p.m. This timing creates particular uncertainty for the evening parade and subsequent events.
The dual celebration of the Army's milestone anniversary and the president's 79th birthday has been positioned as a patriotic tribute to American military strength. Trump has personally championed the event as an opportunity to showcase America's military capabilities.
Military assets, including Sikorsky Black Hawk helicopters and Stryker armored vehicles, have been staged along the National Mall and Potomac River in preparation for the event. These deployments represent significant logistical operations to ensure the parade's planned scale and impact.
The uncertain weather conditions present challenges for organizers and attendees alike. Officials will be monitoring forecasts closely in the coming days to determine whether schedule adjustments become necessary for public safety concerns.