Author: Rebecca Frank

Rebecca Frank is a veteran journalist and special correspondent for The Islamabad Telegraph, with a career spanning two decades of conflict reporting, political analysis, and exclusive investigations from some of the world’s most volatile regions.

A U.S. State Department delegation led by Samuel Samson quietly met France’s National Rally (RN) in May to offer public support for Marine Le Pen. RN declined the proposal, fearing Trump’s endorsement could damage their chances in France’s 2027 presidential race. Le Pen’s party conveyed confidence in Jordan Bardella’s candidacy despite her court-imposed disqualification. The meeting illustrates Europe’s far-right unease with aligning too closely with Trump’s controversial global image. In a quietly significant diplomatic episode last month, a U.S. State Department delegation led by Samuel Samson—an influential figure in Donald Trump’s new-look foreign policy establishment—held a closed-door meeting with senior…

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Arab states shift tone: Once supportive of U.S. pressure on Iran, Gulf nations like Saudi Arabia and the UAE are now condemning the U.S. strikes, fearing regional destabilization. Economic alarm bells: With oil routes threatened and regional trade at risk, Gulf countries brace for fallout, activating emergency economic protocols. Iran prepares response: Tehran vows retaliation for what it calls “blatant aggression,” with U.S. bases across the region potentially in the crosshairs. Trump escalates rhetoric: By floating regime change in Tehran, President Trump complicates diplomatic efforts and heightens fears of long-term conflict. In what may be a defining moment for the…

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U.S. Enters War: President Trump authorized airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear sites—Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan—using six B-2 bombers and submarine-launched missiles, officially bringing the U.S. into the Israel-Iran conflict. Trump’s Justification: Citing intelligence on Iran’s accelerating nuclear activity, Trump said the attack aimed to eliminate Iran’s capacity to build nuclear weapons and stop its regional aggression. Global Repercussions: The UN Secretary General called the strike a “dangerous escalation,” while fears grow that Iran may retaliate with missile attacks, cyberstrikes, or accelerated nuclear development. Political Firestorm: While Republicans praised the action, Democrats condemned it as unconstitutional, accusing Trump of bypassing Congress and…

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Strait of Hormuz Under Threat: U.S. officials warn that Iran could mine the crucial oil chokepoint if the U.S. joins Israel’s military campaign, risking global energy chaos. U.S. Navy on High Alert: Pentagon deploys contingency plans as Iran retains advanced naval mines and regional operatives despite Israeli strikes on its military assets. Europe Pushes for Ceasefire: European diplomats meet in Geneva urging Iran to return to talks, amid fears of a regional explosion and disruption to global trade. Trump Holds Back Final Order: While Israel urges U.S. strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, President Trump remains undecided, saying he prefers “last-minute”…

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Trump Issues Ultimatum to Iran: Ceasefire immediately or face devastating U.S. airstrikes; over 300 U.S. jets are combat-ready in the region. Israel Strikes Deep in Tehran: Live TV studios and Quds Force HQ bombed as Netanyahu hints at targeting Iran’s supreme leader. Nuclear Tensions Soar: IAEA confirms serious damage to Natanz but no radiation leaks—Fordo remains untouched, for now. Global War Fears Rise: Trump skips G7 de-escalation pledge; Russia, China watch closely as diplomacy hangs by a thread. In a dramatic turn that could plunge the Middle East into an unprecedented catastrophe, U.S. President Donald Trump is preparing to issue…

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Iran refuses to negotiate a ceasefire while Israeli strikes continue, despite mediation efforts by Qatar and Oman. Israel’s surprise air campaign has decimated parts of Iran’s military command and targeted nuclear sites, prompting fierce retaliation. Cities like Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Tehran are gripped by fear, with civilian casualties rising and shelters overwhelmed. U.S. military assets shift toward the region, while Senator Tim Kaine pushes legislation to prevent Trump from launching war without congressional approval. TEL AVIV / TEHRAN – In a dramatic escalation of hostilities that has plunged the Middle East into its most dangerous confrontation in decades, Iran…

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Over 2,000 U.S. cities saw anti-Trump “No Kings” protests, causing disruptions, violence, and fear—but the President remains unshaken. President Trump presided over a powerful military parade in D.C., emphasizing strength, sovereignty, and national pride on his 79th birthday. Violence marred protests, including shootings in Minneapolis and Salt Lake City, raising questions about the growing radicalism of opposition groups. Trump’s firm stance on immigration, budget reform, and law enforcement is seen by supporters as a bold path to restore American greatness. WASHINGTON, D.C.—June 15, 2025 – Across more than 2,000 American cities, streets were swarmed by flag-waving demonstrators rallying under the…

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