Concerns over escalating tensions in the Middle East have intensified following Iran's declaration of severe revenge after an attack in its capital that killed a visiting Hamas leader. Iran has attributed the attack to Israel and the United States, prompting the Pentagon to deploy additional navy destroyers to the region. Concurrently, Israeli Defense Forces reported the elimination of another Hamas leader in the occupied West Bank, further heightening the conflict.

In a significant legal development, the U.S. Department of Defense has revoked a controversial plea deal that had previously spared the accused mastermind of the September 11 attacks from the death penalty. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized that the decision should rest with him rather than the appointed overseer, following concerns that evidence obtained through torture might be inadmissible in court.

In Hawaii, Governor Josh Green announced a landmark settlement exceeding $4 billion for victims of the devastating wildfires that occurred last August. This settlement aims to compensate the families of over 100 individuals who lost their lives and the 1,000 displaced residents. However, the settlement is pending final court approval before any payments can be disbursed.

On the sports front, Olympian Simone Biles continued to solidify her legacy by winning her seventh gold medal during the women's vault final in Paris, marking her tenth overall Olympic medal. Team USA also celebrated another victory as swimmer Katie Ledecky secured her ninth gold medal in the 800-meter freestyle event.

In a separate development, the Secret Service is facing scrutiny over its actions before and during the January 6 Capitol attack. A new report from the Homeland Security inspector general highlights several missed opportunities for the agency, including the failure to detect a pipe bomb near then Vice President-elect Kamala Harris and to report signs of potential violence among rally attendees. Investigative reporter Carol Leonig noted that the report raises more questions than it answers, particularly regarding the agency's lack of testimony before the House Committee investigating the events of that day.