+++ USA +++: Hegseth entlässt weiteres Generalstabsmitglied

President Donald Trump canceled two personal campaign appearances in Iowa and Kansas ahead of the U.S. congressional elections. The Republican National Committee announced that Trump would instead conduct nationwide telephone rallies to support Republican candidates. This move aimed to allow Trump to reach voters across the nation.

It was reported that approximately 20 states were planned for such telephone rallies. The upcoming Tuesday's congressional elections could see Republican control of the Senate and House of Representatives in Washington under threat. Both Kansas and Iowa are expected to be closely contested. Trump had initially planned to hold more than 30 rallies before the congressional elections, having completed 25 as of Thursday.

On Monday, Trump made a speech in Mississippi with a hoarse voice. When asked on Thursday about his health not allowing him to travel to Kansas, Trump reacted irritably. "They have been following me for two weeks. I feel great," he stated. According to media reports, Trump consulted with a high-ranking military official, Admiral Brad Cooper, regarding military options in the Iran war.

The "Wall Street Journal" cited U.S. officials, stating that Cooper briefed Trump on military options in Iran during a recent personal meeting at the White House. Axios also reported, based on U.S. officials, that Cooper's briefing for the President focused on the U.S. naval blockade against Iranian ports and coastal areas. The blockade's effectiveness in stopping Iranian shipments was the primary concern.

Trump sought to learn from Cooper whether the blockade was working. Cooper also briefed Trump on the latest developments regarding the economic pressure campaign against Iran. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, General Staff Chief Dan Caine, and other Cabinet members were reportedly present during the meeting.