The Headlines Trump Removes Sanctions on Russian Oil, and Chatbots Want Your Health Records
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Mar 13, 2026 A roundup of breaking global developments from shifting U.S. oil policy to sudden shocks in energy markets. Coverage of escalating violence and displacement in Lebanon alongside violent attacks and investigations at U.S. sites. A look at political stalemates over homeland security funding. Tech angle on chatbots seeking access to medical records and the privacy risks that raises. Plus a lively Friday news quiz.
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U.S. Waiver Eases Pressure On Russia
- The U.S. temporarily lifted sanctions on Russian oil to blunt rising energy prices from the Iran conflict.
- Treasury Secretary Scott Besson called the 30-day waiver limited but admitted it will benefit Russia to some degree, reversing pressure built since 2022.
Hormuz Disruption Sends Global Shockwaves
- Blocking the Strait of Hormuz and new mine-laying by Iran triggered a global energy shock with cascading effects.
- Impacts ranged from sold-out gas stations in Hanoi to closed crematories in Western India and higher U.S. mortgage rates.
Beirut Strikes Displace Hundreds Of Thousands
- Israeli airstrikes expanded into central Beirut, hitting near government headquarters and university campus.
- David Guttenfelder described families evacuating and strikes killing at least two at the university amid over 700 fatalities and 800,000 displaced.