Trump claims Iran ready for nuclear deal

IANS | June 9, 2026 7:08 AM

Washington, June 9 (IANS) US President Donald Trump said that Iran was willing to abandon its pursuit of nuclear weapons and sign an agreement with the United States, as he claimed American military operations had severely weakened Tehran's military capabilities.

UFC’s White House debut highlights growing influence in sports, culture and politics

IANS | June 9, 2026 7:03 AM

Washington, June 9 (IANS) As the Ultimate Fighting Championship prepares to stage the first-ever UFC event on the South Lawn of the White House, the State Department's decision to launch a sports diplomacy partnership with the mixed martial arts giant underscores how the organisation has evolved into a powerful force in sport, culture and politics.

White House vows appeal in H-1B fee case

IANS | June 9, 2026 6:34 AM

Washington, June 9 (IANS) The White House defended President Donald Trump's $100,000 H-1B visa fee and vowed to appeal after a federal judge struck down the policy, ruling that the administration exceeded its authority and imposed an unlawful tax.

Rubio, UFC forge sports diplomacy pact

IANS | June 9, 2026 6:29 AM

Washington, June 9 (IANS) US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will join Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) President and CEO Dana White this week to sign a memorandum of understanding aimed at expanding sports diplomacy and supporting the global growth of mixed martial arts, the State Department announced.

US lawmakers, advocates hail H-1B ruling

IANS | June 9, 2026 6:23 AM

Washington, June 9 (IANS) Democratic lawmakers, state officials and policy advocates welcomed a federal court ruling striking down the Trump administration's $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa petitions, calling it a victory for employers, healthcare providers, universities and the US economy.

US judge strikes down Trump’s H-1B fee

IANS | June 9, 2026 6:18 AM

Washington, June 9 (IANS) A federal judge struck down President Donald Trump's controversial $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa petitions, ruling that the administration exceeded its authority and imposed what amounted to an unlawful tax without approval from Congress.