Melania Trump has strongly denied allegations linking her to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, calling the claims “false, defamatory, and deeply damaging.” The First Lady addressed the controversy head-on, stating she never had any relationship or association with Epstein or his longtime associate Ghislaine Maxwell. Her statement comes at a time when renewed attention around Epstein-related disclosures has reignited scrutiny across political circles. Notably, early reports suggest that President Donald Trump was not briefed in advance about Melania’s decision to release the statement, raising further questions about internal coordination. WATCH

Beirut wakes up to devastation. In one of the most intense escalations since early March, Israel has launched a sweeping wave of airstrikes across Lebanon, pounding central Beirut, the Bekaa Valley, and southern regions with over 100 strikes in a matter of hours. The assault comes just hours after a fragile US-Iran ceasefire, raising urgent questions about the region’s stability. Lebanese authorities report at least 254 people killed and over 1,100 injured, with emergency services overwhelmed as ambulances race through shattered streets. Hospitals are struggling to cope with the influx of victims, while civilians flee amid smoke-filled skies and collapsing infrastructure. WATCH