Virginia Times – July 16, 2025 | News Wrap-Up

🌊 BREAKING: 7.3 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Alaska, Tsunami Warning Issued and Cancelled

A powerful 7.3‑magnitude earthquake struck just 54 miles south of Sand Point, Alaska, on July 16, prompting immediate tsunami warnings for coastal communities including Kodiak and the Aleutian Islands.

The U.S. Tsunami Warning Center initially issued a warning for potential hazardous waves, which was downgraded to an advisory within the hour and later fully canceled by 2:45 PM local time.

No serious damage, injuries, or tsunami-related flooding were reported. However, officials remain on alert for possible aftershocks or localized geological impacts in the region.

Residents are advised to stay informed through NOAA alerts and local emergency services as the situation stabilizes.

Khamenei Declares Iran’s Strength After Zionist Conflict, Warns U.S. of Bigger Blows

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei declared that the nation had accomplished a “great feat” in its response to the Israeli offensive, signaling that even more powerful retaliation could follow if the U.S. interferes. In a series of social media posts, Khamenei emphasized Iran’s preparedness for prolonged resistance and regional confrontation.

U.S. Coast Guard Seizes Over 240,000 Pounds of Cocaine Under Trump Directive

Under President Trump’s renewed maritime enforcement directives, the U.S. Coast Guard has seized over 242,000 pounds of cocaine since January 20, 2025. The Department of Homeland Security credits these historic interdictions to aggressive patrol increases and joint task force coordination in major drug trafficking zones.

Zelensky Says Nearly 200 Russian Drones Shot Down, Trump Warns of Sanctions

President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine successfully shot down nearly 200 Russian drones during a massive overnight assault targeting energy infrastructure across Dnipro, Kharkiv, and Odesa. Meanwhile, President Trump issued a stern warning of new sanctions should Moscow expand its military offensives.

Trump Calls Epstein Revelations a ‘Hoax,’ Blames Past Supporters for Falling for It

In a lengthy Truth Social post, President Trump labeled the latest Epstein disclosures as “a total hoax” orchestrated by Democrats and denounced former supporters for buying into the narrative. He compared the controversy to past scandals like the Steele dossier and Hunter Biden’s laptop, insisting they were all politically driven misinformation.

Trump Softens Tone Toward Russia After Issuing 50-Day Ceasefire Ultimatum

After announcing a 50-day ceasefire ultimatum to Russia, President Trump has slightly softened his stance, suggesting diplomacy remains possible if Moscow curtails its aggression. Russian Security Council deputy chair Dmitry Medvedev dismissed Trump’s message as theatrical, asserting that “Russia doesn’t care.”

Trump’s Disapproval Rating Reaches New High in Economist/YouGov Poll

President Trump’s disapproval rating has climbed to 55%, the highest since the start of his second term, according to a new Economist/YouGov poll. The results reveal slipping support from independent and suburban voters, with approval ratings continuing to trend downward amid domestic and foreign policy criticisms.

Understanding Heart Disease: What Really Happens Inside Your Body

This special report by Virginia Times explores the biological mechanisms behind heart disease, from plaque formation and artery damage to lifestyle-related risks. With cardiovascular disease still the top killer in the U.S., the article urges readers to take early preventive steps and seek proper screening.

Tucker Carlson’s Epstein Takedown Rattles MAGA, Splits Trump’s Base

Tucker Carlson’s shocking claims about the Epstein files and alleged Republican complicity have sent ripples across MAGA circles. His assertions sparked internal division, with prominent Trump allies debating Carlson’s motives and accuracy in a public split rarely seen within the conservative base.

Israeli Settlers Attack CNN Journalists Investigating Killing of Musallet

A CNN news crew reporting in the West Bank was physically assaulted by Israeli settlers while investigating the fatal shooting of 17-year-old Qusay Musallet. The incident drew condemnation from global press freedom groups and sparked renewed debate over settler violence and media access in occupied territories.