US lawmakers seek NASA, FBI investigation into China-linked research

IANS | February 20, 2026 7:01 AM

Washington, Feb 20 (IANS) Two senior Republican lawmakers have written to NASA and the FBI raising concerns over what they describe as potential Chinese Communist Party (CCP)-linked research collaborations involving US taxpayer-funded grants, including a NASA award.

China-linked firms grip US food supply: Senator Chuck Schumer

IANS | February 20, 2026 6:55 AM

Washington, Feb 20 (IANS) Foreign players linked to China are tightening their grip over America’s food supply and influencing grocery prices, a top Democratic senator said, warning that rising consolidation in agriculture and food markets is squeezing consumers and farmers while posing risks to national security.

US Senators press Pentagon on generic drugs

IANS | February 20, 2026 6:50 AM

Washington, Feb 20 (IANS) Two top American Senators have written to the Department of War Secretary Pete Hegseth seeking details on vulnerabilities in America’s pharmaceutical supply chain, warning that heavy reliance on foreign sources — particularly Communist China and India — could threaten military readiness and national security.

Sharif praises Trump, meets Rubio in Washington

IANS | February 20, 2026 6:43 AM

Washington, Feb 20 (IANS) Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised US President Donald Trump’s leadership at the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace, crediting him with preventing a potential India-Pakistan war, while also holding talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during his Washington visit.

Trump dodges Taiwan strategy, sets Iran deadline

IANS | February 20, 2026 6:29 AM

Washington, Feb 20 (IANS) President Donald Trump declined to outline any potential US military strategy on Taiwan or Iran, while setting what he described as a short deadline for Tehran and weighing in on fresh controversy surrounding Britain’s royal family.

World Bank to manage Gaza reconstruction fund: Ajay Banga

IANS | February 20, 2026 6:23 AM

Washington, Feb 20 (IANS) World Bank President Ajay Banga announced the creation of a dedicated Gaza Reconstruction and Development Fund to manage international contributions for rebuilding the war-ravaged territory, saying the institution would act as a “limited trustee” under the direction of the newly formed Board of Peace.