Biden-Era Rivalry Heats Up Over Epstein Files
In a stark public rebuke, former U.S. secretary of state Hillary Clinton sharply criticised President Donald Trump’s administration for allegedly delaying the full release of government files tied to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Clinton argued that the document disclosures have been “slow-walked” and urged that testimony before lawmakers be held publicly, insisting neither she nor her husband, former President Bill Clinton, has anything to conceal about their mentions in the records.
The Justice Department has released millions of pages of Epstein-related material, drawing scrutiny from lawmakers and prompting debate about transparency and accountability. Both Democratic and Republican figures have faced pressure to explain the limited scope of the disclosures, even as the investigation continues to implicate a wide network of influential names.
President Trump, for his part, dismissed the allegations, asserting he has been cleared of any impropriety regarding Epstein and emphasised his lack of ties to the late sex offender. In parallel, notable politicians across the spectrum have traded accusations over the political handling of the files, further sharpening national divisions.
U.S. and Iran Engage in High-Stakes Nuclear Dialogue in Geneva
On the international front, the United States and Iran resumed indirect nuclear negotiations in Geneva amid heightened tensions in the Middle East. Delegations led by senior U.S. envoys and Iranian officials spent hours deliberating over Tehran’s nuclear activities and possible sanctions relief, with Oman acting as mediator.
Although both sides described the discussions as constructive, sharp differences remain — particularly over Tehran’s uranium enrichment program. Washington has reiterated its demand that Iran curb enrichment, while Iranian representatives have signalled resistance to substantive concessions without reciprocal easing of economic penalties.
The diplomatic push comes amid a significant U.S. military buildup in the region and domestic unrest within Iran, underscoring the delicate balance between negotiation and deterrence as global powers seek to avert further escalation of the long-standing nuclear crisis.
Republican Leaders Weigh In as Domestic Scrutiny Intensifies
Adding another layer to the U.S. political narrative, some Republican lawmakers openly critiqued party orthodoxy in relation to the Epstein files. Former House member Marjorie Taylor Greene cautioned that dismissing concerns about transparency could harm the GOP’s appeal among key voter bases, particularly women, and challenged the administration’s resistance to full disclosure.
Meanwhile, discontent with Trump’s foreign policy rhetoric — including his commentary on European allies and the Munich Security Conference — has surfaced in public remarks by both opponents and allies within the party, suggesting internal tensions as the 2026 election cycle heats up.
