1. ISRAEL ATTACKS IRAN

On June 13, 2025, Israel launched major airstrikes on Iran, targeting nuclear sites and killing several top Iranian military officials. Israel claimed the attacks were preemptive, aimed at stopping Iran from developing nuclear weapons. In response, Iran fired waves of ballistic missiles at Israeli cities, killing and injuring civilians. Explosions were reported in both Tel Aviv and Tehran, and the violence has raised fears of a broader war in the Middle East. The U.S. said it was not involved in Israel’s attack and urged both sides to avoid escalation. The conflict also disrupted U.S.–Iran nuclear negotiations, and international leaders have called for de-escalation. Write a short analysis explaining why Israel said it attacked Iran’s nuclear sites and how Iran responded. Include at least one reason the conflict is considered dangerous for the entire Middle East. Then, reflect on how the involvement of the U.S. and other global powers could affect what happens next. Use evidence from the article to support your response.

2. ADVANCES FOR WOMEN IN TENNIS

The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has created a new rule to help players who want to undergo fertility treatments, such as freezing their eggs or embryos. This rule allows athletes to pause their professional rankings while they step away from competition for at least 10 weeks. When they return, they can use a “Special Entry Ranking” based on their previous average for up to three tournaments. This new policy builds on the WTA’s current support for players, which already includes maternity leave, postpartum help, and fertility grants. WTA champion Sloane Stephens praised the change, saying it gives players a safe space to make decisions about their future. WTA leaders say the goal is to help athletes balance their careers with family planning. Write a short opinion response explaining whether you think professional sports leagues should do more to support athletes who want to start families. Use examples from the article and your own reasoning. Consider how policies like the WTA’s new rule might affect athletes’ careers and personal choices.

3. IMMIGRATION CRACKDOWN CONTINUES

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the Trump administration will continue its aggressive immigration enforcement, despite protests erupting nationwide. In Los Angeles, demonstrations grew after President Trump deployed thousands of National Guard troops and Marines to support immigration raids. A judge temporarily blocked the deployment, but an appeals court paused that decision. California Governor Gavin Newsom opposed the federal intervention, calling it a threat to democracy. Tensions rose further when U.S. Senator Alex Padilla was forcibly removed from Noem’s press conference after demanding answers. Noem stated that the actions in Los Angeles serve as a model for other cities. Over 470 people have been arrested during the protests, which remain mostly peaceful but have included some violent clashes. With more demonstrations planned, other states are preparing their own National Guard units as the political and legal battles over immigration enforcement intensify. Imagine you are a reporter covering the protests in Los Angeles. Write a one-paragraph news update for a high school newspaper that explains what happened, why people are protesting, and what actions both the federal government and California officials have taken. Be sure to include who is involved, what the conflict is about, and what might happen next. Try to write clearly and objectively, like a real journalist.

4. NATIONAL GUARD DEBATE

On Thursday, a federal appeals court temporarily blocked a judge’s ruling that would have returned control of California’s National Guard troops to Governor Gavin Newsom. The original ruling, by Judge Charles Breyer, said President Trump’s deployment of the Guard to help with immigration raids in Los Angeles was illegal and violated the Tenth Amendment, which limits federal power over states. The judge also said the protests in LA didn’t qualify as a “rebellion,” which is required under the law Trump used to justify the deployment. However, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals quickly paused that decision and scheduled a hearing for Tuesday. Meanwhile, 200 Marines are set to join 2,000 National Guard troops already on the streets. California is suing the federal government, arguing that involving the Guard in immigration raids worsens tensions. Trump and his administration argue he has full authority as Commander in Chief and that his actions are keeping LA safe. Write a short explanation of why the judge said President Trump’s use of the National Guard in California might be unconstitutional, using details from the article to support your answer.

5. POLITICAL SHOOTING

In Minnesota, two Democratic lawmakers were shot in what officials are calling a politically motivated attack. Former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband were killed in their home, and Senator John Hoffman and his wife were wounded at their house nearby. The suspect, 57-year-old Vance Boelter, is a former state political appointee and is still being searched for by law enforcement. He was dressed as a police officer and reportedly had anti-government flyers and a list of other politicians in his car, raising concerns about further attacks. The incident has sparked a major investigation involving the FBI, and officials have urged the public to stay alert. Many political figures are calling for stronger action against political violence as tensions rise nationwide. Write a short response explaining how the attack on these lawmakers shows the dangers of political violence. Use specific details from the article to describe what happened, who was involved, and how authorities are responding. Then reflect on why it’s important for a democracy to protect elected officials and maintain peaceful disagreement instead of resorting to violence.