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Gulf on Edge as UAE Oil Hub Blaze Fuels Iran–US Tensions

  Smoke rises in the Fujairah oil industry zone, caused by debris after interception of a drone by air defences. A surge in regional tensions has followed a major fire at a UAE oil hub, sparked by debris from intercepted drones, as Iran vows retaliation for a recent U.S. strike on its Kharg Island oil facilities. The incident has intensified fears of broader conflict across the Gulf, with Iran warning that parts of the UAE could be considered legitimate targets.  A significant fire erupted at a major oil hub in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, after debris from intercepted drones fell onto the facility, disrupting operations and sending plumes of smoke across the region. The blaze occurred amid escalating hostilities following a U.S. strike on Iran’s Kharg Island—Tehran’s primary oil export terminal. Iran responded with sharp warnings, declaring that U.S. “hideouts” within the UAE could be targeted as legitimate military sites. The threat came as Iran continued missile and d...

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Trump Targets Fed Chair Powell Over Renovation Costs

 

In a dramatic escalation of his long-standing feud with Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, former President Donald Trump has signaled a potential path to remove Powell from office—citing alleged mismanagement of a $2.5 billion renovation project at the Fed’s Washington headquarters.

The renovation, which includes upgrades to aging infrastructure and removal of hazardous materials like asbestos, has ballooned in cost over the years. Trump and his allies claim the project includes extravagant features such as rooftop gardens, VIP dining rooms, and premium marble—claims Powell has publicly denied. The Fed insists the renovations are necessary and cost-effective in the long term, consolidating staff and reducing rental expenses.

While the Supreme Court has affirmed that a president cannot dismiss the Fed chair over policy disagreements, Trump may be attempting to build a case for removal “for cause,” alleging Powell misled Congress about the renovation’s scope and budget.

Critics warn that such a move could undermine the Fed’s independence, destabilize financial markets, and erode investor confidence in U.S. institutions. Powell’s term is set to expire in May 2026, and any premature dismissal would be unprecedented.

News Angle: Trump’s push to oust Powell over renovation costs may be less about fiscal responsibility and more about reshaping the Fed to align with his economic agenda—particularly his desire for lower interest rates ahead of the 2026 election. The move raises urgent questions about the future of central bank independence in the U.S. and the potential politicization of monetary policy.

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