The Justice Department has closed its criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, ending a politically charged inquiry into whether he misled Congress about renovations at the central bank's headquarters. The investigation had been encouraged by President Trump, a frequent critic of Powell. Its closure may ease the path for Kevin Warsh, a Trump-appointed successor, to win Senate confirmation, though a federal prosecutor said the case could be reopened if new facts emerge.

The decision follows pressure from Senator Thom Tillis, who had pledged to block any nominee while legal threats against Powell remained. It remains uncertain whether the closure will fully satisfy lawmakers concerned about the handling of the case.

In foreign policy, the White House said Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff will travel to Pakistan for talks with Iranian officials, as tensions continue in the Strait of Hormuz. The United States has maintained a blockade of Iranian ports, while Iran insists it must be lifted before a deal is reached. Meanwhile, clashes intensified between Israel and Hezbollah despite an extended ceasefire.

Other developments include scrutiny of Elon Musk's financial dealings involving SpaceX, a proposal by Dutch scientists to build a massive dam across the Bering Strait to protect ocean currents, and a range of domestic political and environmental stories across the United States.