Trump, Iran & California Guard: Morning Rundown

Los Angeles, 2025-06-20

Trump’s Iran decision Looms

President Donald Trump is poised to decide on potential U.S. action in the conflict between Israel and Iran within two weeks. An appeals court also backed the deployment of the California National Guard.

• Trump will decide within two weeks weather the U.S.will intervene in the Israel-Iran conflict.
• An appeals court ruled Trump was within his rights to deploy the California National Guard.
• Chris Brown pleaded not guilty to a 2023 London nightclub attack charge.

Will the U.S. engage in the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran? That’s the question as Donald Trump prepares to make a pivotal decision within the next two weeks, according to the White House. This follows reports of ongoing tensions and negotiations in the region.

Advisers Influence Trump’s Iran Strategy

President Trump is leaning on a close circle of advisors as he deliberates on the U.S.’s stance on the Israel-iran conflict. His decision, expected within a fortnight, is influenced by the likelihood of future negotiations with Iran, as stated by the White House.

While the President typically consults a wider group including officials and foreign leaders,key decisions are often made with a smaller team. This inner circle includes Vice President JD Vance, White House chief of staff Susie Wiles, deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Steve Witkoff, Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, also plays a significant role.

However, National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have reportedly been sidelined in this process, although the Defense Department disputes the latter claim.

Did you know?-The role of special envoy to the Middle east is not a permanent position. It is indeed frequently enough created to address specific needs or initiatives and can change with administrations.

Further developments in the conflict include successful interceptions of missiles by Israel’s Air Force and Navy. Additionally, key structures at an Iranian heavy water reactor have been damaged.

California National Guard Deployment Approved

An appeals court has affirmed Trump’s authority to deploy the California National Guard amidst immigration protests in Los Angeles. This ruling allows the President to maintain control of the troops.

The court’s decision, delivered last night by a three-judge panel, stated that the federal government met the requirements to justify the deployment.However,the court disagreed with the administration’s view that federalization is “completely insulated from judicial review.”

Reader question:-How do you think the deployment of the National Guard affects the relationship between the federal government and state governments? Share your thoughts.

In related news, the Los Angeles Dodgers reportedly blocked federal immigration agents from entering their stadium, a claim ICE denied. Though, a source indicated that agents processed detainees just outside the ballpark. Demonstrators protested outside the stadium, voicing opposition to ICE presence.

More Immigration Updates

• “Border czar” Tom Homan stated the Trump administration would continue worksite immigration raids, prioritizing criminals.
• A federal judge blocked the Trump administration from requiring 20 Democratic-led states to cooperate with immigration enforcement to receive transportation funds.
• Focus groups with Latino Trump voters showed approval of Trump’s immigration handling, though some disagreement exists regarding deportations.

UnitedHealthcare Under Scrutiny

A recent clash between a surgeon and UnitedHealthcare highlights the insurer’s aggressive tactics. Pediatric neurosurgeon Dr. Catherine Mazzola’s case underscores the difficulties doctors face with insurers over reimbursements.

In February 2024, following a significant hack affecting Change Healthcare, a UnitedHealthcare unit, reimbursements to hospitals and doctors were halted. To help,Optum,another UnitedHealth subsidiary,offered “temporary” no-interest loans. Mazzola’s practice received a $535,000 loan but was later required to repay it in full within five business days. Months later, UnitedHealthcare deposited reimbursement checks into its own account.

Chris Brown’s Plea in London

Singer Chris Brown has pleaded not guilty to a charge related to a 2023 London nightclub incident and will face trial later this year.

Brown appeared at london’s Southwark Crown Court, where he denied attempting to cause “grievous bodily harm” in connection to a february 2023 altercation involving a bottle attack on a music producer. He will enter pleas for additional charges, including assault and possessing an offensive weapon, in a later hearing.

Omololu Akinlolu, also known as “Hoody Baby,” pleaded not guilty to the same charge. both are accused of attacking music producer Abe Diaw at Tape nightclub in London’s Mayfair district. If convicted, brown, 36, could face between two and 16 years in prison.

Read All About It

• Trump extended a potential TikTok ban by 90 days, until Sept. 17, giving ByteDance more time to find an American owner.
• The NBA Finals are going to Game 7 for the first time since 2016 after the Indiana Pacers beat the Oklahoma City Thunder, 108-91.
• A 9-year-old Florida girl recalled the shark attack: “I didn’t see anything. … something hard bit me.”
• Some ready-to-eat fettuccine Alfredo meals sold at Walmart and Kroger were recalled after a listeria outbreak linked to three deaths and 17 illnesses.

Staff Pick: Parents Speak Out

A poignant story by Curtis Bunn explores the heartbreaking aftermath of a 7-year-old’s death and the subsequent arrest of his parents. Curtis’s report delves into the lives of a family grieving the loss of a child.

Curtis spoke to the parents from jail, offering a glimpse into their struggle as they face multiple charges. The article highlights the support from the family’s faithful grandparents, aunties, and friends who are caring for the couple’s remaining six children.

Online Shopping Simplified

In “Talking Shop,” a series from, recent features include interviews with prima ballerina Tiler Peck about her favorite products, and discussions with dermatologists regarding the best UPF clothing.

Immigration Enforcement Under Scrutiny: A deeper Dive

The deployment of the California National Guard, as affirmed by the appeals court, adds another layer to the ongoing debate surrounding immigration. The situation in Los Angeles, with immigration protests and the reported actions at the dodgers stadium, reflects the complexities of federal and state power in this sensitive area.Beyond the immediate events, the broader impacts of these policies deserve further scrutiny.

consider the “border czar” Tom Homan’s statement, emphasizing worksite immigration raids. What does this mean for employers and employees? It signals an intensified focus on businesses that might potentially be employing undocumented workers. This could lead to increased scrutiny and potential penalties for companies.

Furthermore,the legal challenges to the administration’s immigration policies highlight the role of the judicial branch. The federal judge’s block on requiring states to cooperate with enforcement showcases the importance of legal battles in shaping immigration rules. This directly affects the allocation of federal funds and the ability of different states to implement their own approaches to immigration control.

understanding the Impact of Immigration Raids

Worksite raids can affect various parties. Here’s what you need to know:

• Employers: Face potential fines and legal action if found to knowingly hire unauthorized workers. They are now required to verify employee work eligibility.
• Employees: Undocumented workers are at risk of detention and deportation during raids. They have very limited legal rights.
• Communities: Such activity creates a climate of fear and suspicion within immigrant communities, influencing local economies.
• Federal Government: The agencies involved manage the complex challenges of enforcement.

The political dynamics also hold importance. The administration’s focus groups with Latino Trump voters demonstrate the intricate political landscape surrounding immigration. Do these voters support tougher enforcement, or do they prioritize other factors such as family reunification? Their answers influence policy decisions.

These are some of the most frequent questions about Immigration Enforcement.

How do immigration raids work?

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) can carry out worksite raids.Agents will often review employment records to search for evidence of illegal hiring. These raids typically involve arresting undocumented workers and issuing administrative subpoenas to employers.

What are the legal rights of workers during a raid?

Undocumented workers have limited rights, but they’re still entitled to legal counsel. They can refuse to answer questions without an attorney present. Law enforcement must follow legal procedures for search and seizure.

what are the financial penalties for employers?

Employers found to have hired undocumented workers could be subject to significant fines. The exact amount depends on the number of violations and repeat offenses. Penalties can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars per undocumented employee,especially in cases showing a pattern of behavior.