Newsweek is reporting that the Iran war continues with escalating strikes, leading oil prices to top $100 a barrel for the first time since May after Yemen's Houthis claimed strikes on two Saudi tankers in the Red Sea. It said the war's cost and the U.S.'s new nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia are key areas of focus. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has estimated the Iran war's cost at $37 billion, as lawmakers consider an $87.6 billion additional funding request. Newsweek also highlighted that the U.S. nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia could allow Riyadh to develop uranium enrichment facilities without strict IAEA inspections, suggesting a shift in nuclear nonproliferation doctrine where deals are made based on geopolitical leverage.
The publication is also covering the prolonged public absence of Sen. Mitch McConnell, who has missed Senate roll call votes since June 11, fueling speculation about his health and renewed calls for congressional health disclosure requirements.
Regarding domestic policy, Newsweek reported on President Donald Trump's new tariffs on key Canadian imports, ranging from wine to hockey sticks. It also examined the return of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and its evolving enforcement tactics, including increased pressure for arrests under the Trump administration and recent fatal shootings in Maine and Texas.
Newsweek noted that despite Republican control of both congressional chambers and the presidency, the GOP faces a "three-body problem" in governing. It also highlighted Georgia Sen. Jon Ossoff's growing momentum as a potential 2028 presidential contender, despite his denials. Additionally, the publication discussed how President Trump's administration is grappling with a "gas problem" related to the cost of living, following previous economic challenges.