Brief

Hark has secured $700 million in funding, marking a significant financial boost for the company. Separately, Anthropic is reportedly spending $15 billion annually on compute resources for its Colossus infrastructure. Additionally, former President Trump has decided to halt an executive order that would have mandated AI model disclosures, citing concerns about competition with China. AI

Industry leaders successfully lobbied against a proposed executive order by then-President Trump that would have imposed a safety vetting system for AI development. The tech executives argued that such a system could stifle innovation in the rapidly evolving field. This intervention reportedly occurred during last-minute calls to the White House. AI

The United States and Iran are nearing a 60-day agreement that would include a ceasefire, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and the lifting of some sanctions to allow Iran to sell oil freely. This deal aims to de-escalate the current conflict and ease pressure on global oil supplies. Negotiations will also commence on curbing Iran's nuclear program, though a lasting peace agreement addressing nuclear demands remains uncertain. AI

A new "Anti-Weaponization Fund" has been established using $1.8 billion in taxpayer money, stemming from a lawsuit settlement by former President Trump against his own administration. This fund, managed by a handpicked commission, will compensate individuals who claim the government politically targeted them, with decisions shielded from judicial review. Critics argue this novel use of the government's Judgment Fund circumvents expected oversight and could set a precedent for future administrations. AI

President Trump held a meeting with his senior national security advisors to discuss the ongoing war with Iran. He is reportedly considering new strikes against Iran if diplomatic efforts fail. Mediation efforts are underway by Pakistan and Qatar, with negotiations described as difficult and progress slow. Trump's decision on whether to resume military action is pending, with a potential for a final major operation. AI

Reports indicate that a forthcoming AI executive order from former President Trump will make the sharing of AI models with the U.S. government voluntary. This approach contrasts with earlier proposals that would have mandated such sharing, signaling a shift in policy regarding government access to AI technologies. AI

California Governor Gavin Newsom is urging residents to avoid Chevron gas stations due to high prices, suggesting unbranded alternatives are cheaper and meet the same standards. Newsom's office claims Chevron is charging 60-80 cents more per gallon than unbranded options, contributing to the state's average gas price of $6.14. This dispute follows Chevron's signs blaming state climate policies for high costs, while Newsom's administration has previously enacted laws aimed at curbing oil company profits and stabilizing fuel prices. AI

The White House is set to revise its deportation statistics to include individuals quickly removed at the border, aiming to reach a goal of one million deportations annually. This approach mirrors a strategy used by the Obama administration, which drew criticism from Republicans for allegedly inflating deportation numbers. The Trump administration's plan, spearheaded by Border Czar Tom Homan, combines interior removals with border apprehensions to achieve higher figures. AI

Former President Trump made significant Intel stock purchases in March 2026, shortly before the company announced a major repurchase of shares in an Irish joint venture. These trades nearly tripled in value within a month, raising questions about potential insider trading and government ethics. Cantor Fitzgerald, an investment firm now led by the sons of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, also built a substantial Intel position during the period Lutnick was negotiating the government's stake in the company, further fueling concerns about conflicts of interest. AI

The White House has reportedly delayed a significant executive order aimed at regulating artificial intelligence. This decision, framed as a move to maintain US competitiveness, comes shortly before the order was expected to be signed. The delay is seen by some as a potential setback for AI governance efforts. AI

The United States and Iran are reportedly nearing a breakthrough in talks aimed at ending the ongoing war, with a draft deal potentially on the horizon. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism about the progress, while Iranian officials indicated that a preliminary agreement might be close. Pakistani Field Marshal Asim Munir has been a key mediator in these discussions, facilitating talks between the two nations. AI

GOP senators have blocked a $72 billion funding package for ICE and Border Patrol due to opposition to a $1.776 billion "anti-weaponization fund" proposed by former President Trump. This unexpected move, described as a "galactic blunder" by one senator, has jeopardized the bill's passage. The fund's inclusion has created significant internal division within the Republican party, leading to the delay of a vote on the crucial border security funding. AI

President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a tense discussion regarding a new peace proposal aimed at resolving the conflict with Iran. Mediated by Qatar and Pakistan, the proposal seeks to bridge gaps between the U.S. and Iran, with Netanyahu expressing skepticism and a desire to continue military action. Trump, however, remains optimistic about a deal while also prepared for renewed conflict if negotiations fail. Iran has confirmed it is reviewing the updated proposal, but has not yet shown significant flexibility. AI