The war in Iran is back on, after President Donald Trump declared the ceasefire was “over” on Wednesday while in Turkey for the NATO summit.
Meanwhile, Republicans are facing growing calls for transparency around Sen. Mitch McConnell, who remains hospitalized more than three weeks after an undisclosed medical emergency. In Maine, Democratic Senate nominee Graham Platner is bowing out of the race following mounting pressure to withdraw ahead of next week’s ballot deadline. And the World Cup quarterfinals begin today amid controversies over officiating – and Trump’s political involvement.
Here are four stories worth following:
Trump Declares Iran Ceasefire “Over”
What we’re watching: The U.S. launched a new wave of strikes against Iran on Wednesday after three commercial vessels were hit in the Strait of Hormuz in an effort to limit Tehran’s ability to disrupt international shipping. The strikes came after the sides exchanged strikes on Tuesday. The fighting comes after President Trump declared the interim ceasefire agreement “over” on Wednesday.
Why it matters: The renewed hostilities threaten to unravel weeks of fragile diplomacy. It has also rattled global markets, with oil prices jumping as commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz – a vital corridor for roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply – faces renewed disruption.
Platner Bows Out of Senate Race
What we’re watching: Graham Platner announced Wednesday night that he is suspending his campaign, saying he will formally withdraw from Maine’s Senate race after days of mounting pressure from Democratic leaders following sexual assault allegations. Platner continues to deny the allegations are true.
Why it matters: Democrats view Maine as one of their best opportunities to unseat Republican Sen. Susan Collins and reclaim the Senate majority. The latest allegations against Platner were made public just days before the July 13 deadline for him to be replaced on the November ballot. The episode has exposed growing divisions between the Democratic Party’s progressives, who have supported Platner, and party leaders, who initially backed other candidates.
FIFA World Cup Quarterfinals Kick Off in Boston
What we’re watching: The FIFA World Cup quarterfinals begin today with France facing Morocco at Gillette Stadium outside Boston, in the first matchup of the tournament’s final eight. The tournament’s prior round was marked by a series of controversies, including accusations that Trump improperly pressured FIFA over disciplinary decisions and criticism of officiating.
Why it matters: Despite the controversies, the 2026 World Cup has been one of the most-attended in history, with host cities across the United States, Canada and Mexico setting records for attendance. With only eight teams remaining, every decision on and off the field is likely to face even greater scrutiny.
Rumors Swirl Amid McConnell Health Mystery
What we’re watching: Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky remains hospitalized more than three weeks after being admitted for an undisclosed medical condition. On Wednesday, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear publicly urged McConnell and his office to provide Kentuckians with more information about his condition. Several Republican leaders reported they had spoken with McConnell this week.
Why it matters: McConnell’s extended absence comes as Republicans maintain a narrow Senate majority and while the campaign to replace him is already underway ahead of his planned retirement in January 2027. If McConnell resigns, Beshear would call a special election to fill the seat, but there is little recourse if McConnell remains in office but is unable to perform his duties.