Trump Sacks Pam Bondi, Names Todd Blanche Acting Attorney General

US President Donald Trump has announced the dismissal of Attorney General Pam Bondi, naming Todd Blanche as Acting Attorney General in a significant shake-up within the administration.

The development was disclosed on Thursday via Trump’s Truth Social platform, where he confirmed that Bondi would be leaving government to take up a new role in the private sector.

In his statement, Trump praised Bondi’s service, describing her as a “great American patriot” and a loyal ally who had “faithfully served” as Attorney General over the past year. He added that she would soon transition into what he called a “much-needed and important” private-sector position.

Trump also announced that Blanche, who previously served as Deputy Attorney General and had worked as his personal lawyer, would immediately step in as Acting Attorney General. The president described him as a “very talented and respected legal mind.”

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The Trump fires Pam Bondi decision comes amid growing scrutiny surrounding her tenure. While Trump credited her with overseeing a sweeping crime crackdown in the United States and claimed murder rates had fallen significantly, critics have questioned those assertions and pointed to controversies within the Justice Department.

Bondi’s time in office drew criticism over alleged politicisation of the United States Department of Justice, particularly in relation to sensitive investigations, including matters linked to convicted financier Jeffrey Epstein. Reports suggest internal tensions and disagreements over high-profile cases may have influenced her removal.

Her departure is part of a broader pattern of changes within the administration. In March, Trump removed Kristi Noem as head of the United States Department of Homeland Security, with Markwayne Mullin stepping in as her replacement.

With Blanche now leading the Justice Department in an acting capacity, attention is turning to who Trump may nominate as a permanent Attorney General. Analysts say the move underscores Trump’s reliance on trusted legal allies as he navigates ongoing political and legal challenges.

Further details about Bondi’s next role in the private sector are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Trump Sacks Pam Bondi, Names Todd Blanche Acting Attorney General

Muslim Nations Condemn Israel’s New Death Penalty Law for Palestinians

Several Muslim-majority countries have strongly condemned Israel’s new death penalty law, which reintroduces capital punishment for certain terrorism-related offenses, warning that it could further escalate tensions in the Middle East. The legislation, passed by Israel’s Knesset on March 30, 2026, allows death by hanging as the default sentence for Palestinians convicted in military courts of deadly attacks classified as terrorism, with executions scheduled within 90 days of conviction.

The foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Qatar, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates issued a joint statement criticizing the law, describing it as a discriminatory measure that undermines the fundamental rights of Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. The ministers warned that the legislation reinforces an apartheid-like system and could inflame tensions on the ground.

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Human rights organizations, including the Association for Civil Rights in Israel and the International Bar Association’s Human Rights Institute, have opposed the law, filing petitions with Israel’s Supreme Court to block it. Critics argue that the legislation disproportionately targets Palestinians, applying primarily in military courts in the occupied territories, while allowing Israeli civilians discretion in sentencing for terrorism-motivated murder.

The law was introduced by the far-right Otzma Yehudit party, led by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who argued that stricter penalties are necessary to deter terrorism and protect citizens. However, opponents say that the measure risks undermining the rule of law and exacerbating ongoing conflicts.

The legislation has drawn strong international criticism. The Palestinian Authority condemned the law as a violation of international law, potentially amounting to a war crime under the Fourth Geneva Convention. UN human rights officials have also expressed concern, highlighting the risk to civilian safety, due process, and human rights protections.

Muslim nations and international observers continue to call for restraint and adherence to international legal standards. They emphasize that reinstating the death penalty in a volatile conflict zone could heighten instability and hinder prospects for peace.

Muslim Nations Condemn Israel’s New Death Penalty Law for Palestinians

China Blames US‑Israeli Strikes on Iran for Strait of Hormuz Blockage

China has accused the United States and Israel of being the “root cause” of the disruption of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, following recent military strikes on Iran. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Thursday that the interruption to navigation resulted directly from what Beijing described as “illegal military operations” by Washington and Tel Aviv against Tehran.

The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime corridor connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, is one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes for crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG). Iran has effectively restricted access to the strait in retaliation for the joint strikes, escalating tensions in the Middle East and threatening global energy supply chains.

China, as the largest importer of Iranian crude, has been particularly affected. Mao Ning warned that further military escalation would not resolve the crisis, saying, “Military means cannot fundamentally solve the problem, and the escalation of conflicts is not in the interests of either side.” Beijing called for an immediate ceasefire and de-escalation to restore safe passage and regional stability.

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The remarks came after U.S. President Donald Trump urged nations dependent on oil shipments through the strait to “take care of that passage” themselves. Trump also indicated that the conflict could continue for another two to three weeks, with potential strikes targeting critical Iranian infrastructure if negotiations fail.

The disruption has already sent shockwaves through global energy markets, with oil prices surging between 40 to 50 percent. Industries reliant on fuel have been hard hit, including airlines such as Air China, which announced increases in fuel surcharges on domestic routes. Analysts warn that sustained instability in the strait could prolong energy price volatility and further strain global supply chains.

Market experts say that reopening the Strait of Hormuz is crucial for stabilising international energy flows. Private and public sectors are closely monitoring developments, with international diplomacy expected to play a key role in resolving the crisis. China’s call for a negotiated solution highlights its strategic interest in protecting maritime energy imports and preventing long-term disruption to global oil supply.

China Blames US‑Israeli Strikes on Iran for Strait of Hormuz Blockage