US blacklists Dubai crypto exchange over alleged Iran sanctions evasion
The US sanctioned Dubai-based crypto exchange Shelbit and its founder for allegedly processing millions for Iran's IRGC and other state-linked groups.
Daily Current Affairs — 7 August 2026
World
US Senate passes sweeping Russia-Iran sanctions bill, sends it to House
The US Senate passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, moving the long-delayed bill to the House.
Armenian Church Leader Appears in Court as Clergy-Government Rift Deepens
Armenia's top cleric faces trial over a defrocking dispute, escalating a long-running conflict with Prime Minister Pashinyan's government.
Houthi missile strike on Yemen displacement camp sparks fear in Marib
A missile strike blamed on Houthi rebels hit a displacement camp in Marib, Yemen, killing two and wounding 14, officials said.
US Senate Advances Sweeping Russia-Iran Sanctions Bill
The US Senate has voted overwhelmingly to advance a major sanctions bill targeting Russia and Iran, setting up a contentious House debate over new tariff powers.
US Marine Held in Russia for Four Years Is Critically Ill, Advocates Say
Advocates say former US Marine Robert Gilman, detained in Russia since 2022, is gravely ill and at risk of dying.
Senate Approves Sweeping Russia Sanctions Bill in 86-11 Vote
Senate passes major Russia sanctions bill, targeting energy buyers, in bipartisan 86-11 vote.
Teen gunman kills 8, wounds 30 in Thai school and home attack
A 14-year-old student in Thailand shot dead his grandparents, then attacked a school, killing 8 and wounding over 30 before police shot him.
Army opens test ranges to startups to fast-track battlefield weapons
The U.S. Army will let private weapons firms test missiles and drones on military ranges via a new online portal, aiming to speed procurement.
New footage shows gunman firing into Idaho In-N-Out drive-thru
Surveillance video shows a gunman firing into an Idaho In-N-Out drive-thru, killing three and wounding seven before taking his own life.
Trump to Host Mining CEOs to Bolster Critical Mineral Supplies for Defense
President Trump will meet mining executives to push critical minerals for defense, addressing supply chain concerns after the Iran conflict.
White House renews bid to oust Fed Governor Lisa Cook
The White House has told Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook that President Trump is considering her removal, following a Supreme Court ruling that blocked an earlier attempt.
Spain-led operation dismantles Mediterranean migrant and drug smuggling ring
Spanish police and Europol dismantled a major Mediterranean smuggling network, arresting 78 people and seizing boats, drugs, and cash.
US payrolls unexpectedly fall in July, cooling September rate hike bets
US nonfarm payrolls fell by 23,000 in July, confounding forecasts, while the unemployment rate dropped to 4.1% as labor force participation hit a near 5-1/2-year low.
Peru and Mexico restore diplomatic ties after asylum deal for ex-PM
Peru and Mexico have resumed diplomatic relations after Lima granted safe passage to former PM Betssy Chávez, who had been in asylum at the Mexican embassy.
Kharkiv Streets Draped in Anti-Drone Netting as Attacks Intensify
Kharkiv installs anti-drone nets over roads amid renewed Russian strikes, as a local maternity clinic adapts to wartime conditions.
FAA Mandates Crack Inspections on 471 Boeing 737 Max Jets
The FAA has ordered inspections for 471 Boeing 737 Max jets to check for cracks, a condition previously found in older 737 models.
Tate Brothers Seek Release From US Jail While Fighting UK Extradition
Andrew and Tristan Tate's lawyers filed for release in Miami federal court, citing their public profiles and past compliance as reasons they won't flee.
Morocco Jails Seven Taxi Drivers Over Ceuta Border Surge
Seven Moroccan taxi drivers sentenced to prison and fines for transporting migrants to Ceuta border during last week's surge.
Amur tiger released in Kazakhstan in historic rewilding push
A female Amur tiger, Umit, was released into Kazakhstan's Ile-Balkhash reserve, part of a plan to restore tigers to Central Asia.
Texas Toddler at Center of Brain-Death Dispute Dies After Life Support Removed
Annelise Camp, 2, died after life support was withdrawn, ending a legal battle over brain-death testing in Texas.
US measles cases cross 2,400 as outbreaks drive most infections
US measles cases hit 2,465 in 2026, with 38 new outbreaks and 94% of infections outbreak-associated, per CDC data.
Serbia battles wildfires as record heat wave scorches Balkans
Serbia deploys army to fight nine wildfires as a record heat wave and drought grip the Balkans, straining energy systems across Europe.
Italy rejects Spain's ultimatum over border checks amid Ceuta migrant crisis
Spain demands Italy lift border controls by Sunday; Italy refuses, citing Ceuta migrant risks.
Chicago Funeral Home Found With Over 50 Decomposing Bodies
More than 50 decomposing bodies were found at a Chicago funeral home, leading to a hazmat response and license suspension.
Court Halts White House Ballroom Project, Says Congress Must Approve
A U.S. appeals court has ordered a halt to the White House ballroom construction, ruling Congress must approve the project.
Patriot missile demand outstrips supply as global conflicts intensify
Global demand for Patriot interceptor missiles has surged, depleting U.S. and allied stockpiles amid wars in Ukraine and the Middle East.
ADNOC Says Missile and Drone Attacks on Vessels Are Disrupting Operations
ADNOC says 15 vessels have been attacked in the Strait of Hormuz since the conflict began, impacting operations and leaving one crew member dead.
Kyiv bids farewell to Polish volunteer killed in Russian drone strike
A memorial service was held in Kyiv for Polish volunteer Marek Rusek-Wolski, who died in a Russian drone attack in Kharkiv while delivering aid.
Russian Expert Warns Japan's Military and Intelligence Expansion Could Destabilize Asia-Pacific
A Russian analyst says Japan's military buildup and new centralized intelligence bureau will escalate regional tensions.
Japan's New Defense Paper Signals Push Toward Military Power, Expert Warns
A Japanese defense white paper reflects the Takaichi administration's push toward conventional military power, says a Seoul-based expert.
Romanian F-16s Run Quick-Reaction Drills as Russian Drones Keep Crossing Border
Romania's F-16s held rapid-response drills at Borcea Air Base, highlighting 15-minute scramble times as drones from the Ukraine war keep entering NATO airspace.
Michigan Democrats Rally to Close Ranks After Heated Senate Primary
Michigan Democrats meet Friday to unify after a close, divisive Senate primary, with nominee Abdul El-Sayed set to lead the charge.
Trump warns Congress could regulate AI 'out of business'
Trump says Congress risks over-regulating AI, as new incidents and proposed guidelines intensify the policy debate.
Beijing widens home-buying eligibility as property slump persists
Beijing relaxes home-buying curbs for non-locals and raises provident fund loan limits to support the ailing property sector.
Appeals Court Halts Trump's White House Ballroom Construction
A divided federal appeals court has ordered a stop to the $400 million White House ballroom project, backing preservationists in a legal battle over executive power.
Japan's new intelligence bureau raises oversight concerns, signals strategic shift
Japan's new National Intelligence Bureau, launched under PM Takaichi, lacks independent oversight and signals a broader remilitarization push, a French scholar warns.
Europe's Summer of Heat and Drought Puts Billions at Risk
Europe's extreme heat and drought are causing record-low river levels, energy strain, and billions in potential economic losses.
Tanzania opens government debt market to all foreign investors
Tanzania's central bank has lifted restrictions, allowing all foreign investors to buy government Treasury bills and bonds.
Russia's Top Court to Hear Bid to Block Anti-War Party From Election
Russia's Supreme Court will consider a suit to bar anti-war party Yabloko from September elections, filed by pro-Kremlin party Rodina.
US July Jobs Report Stuns Markets, Fed Rate Hike Odds Slip
US payrolls unexpectedly fell in July, and prior months were revised lower, sharply reducing market odds of a September Fed rate hike.
Teen Student Kills Seven in Thailand School Shooting
A 14-year-old student shot dead seven people in Nonthaburi, Thailand, including five school staff and his two grandparents.
Spanish slugs overwhelm Moscow region gardens
Gardeners in the Moscow region are battling an invasion of Spanish slugs, an invasive species thriving in the local climate and damaging plants.
Polish Prosecutors Indict Ex-Orlen Managers Over $378 Million Oil Losses
Three former Orlen managers face trial in Poland over $378 million in losses from undelivered crude oil contracts.
Houthi Strikes on Saudi Targets Raise Alarm Over Key Red Sea Shipping Lane
Houthi attacks on Saudi targets this week have killed dozens and raised fears over the security of the Bab el-Mandeb strait, a key global shipping route.
Mexico's July inflation eases to slowest pace since 2020
Mexico's annual inflation slowed to 3.12% in July, the lowest since May 2020, matching forecasts and supporting Banxico's rate pause.
Hawaii Primary: Corruption Scandal, SAVE Act Vote Shape Key Races
Hawaii's Saturday primary features a crowded lieutenant governor race amid a bribery scandal and a challenge to Rep. Ed Case over his SAVE Act vote.
Canada's July Jobs Surge Defies Tariff Headwinds, Unemployment at Two-Year Low
Canada added 75,100 jobs in July, far exceeding forecasts, while unemployment dropped to 6.4%, a two-year low.
Canada adds 75,100 jobs in July, unemployment dips to 6.4%
Canada's economy added 75,100 net jobs in July, pushing the unemployment rate to a two-year low of 6.4%.
China Warns Japan's Military Expansion Poses Regional Threat
China's defense spokesman warns Japan's military buildup threatens regional stability, calling for international vigilance against remilitarization.
Rosatom clears weekly Chinese container sailings via Arctic to Europe
Rosatom has issued permits for seven Chinese vessels to transit the Northern Sea Route to Europe, ahead of a planned weekly container service in 2026.
US July Jobs Report Shows Cooling Labor Market
US nonfarm payrolls fell by 23,000 in July, while the unemployment rate dipped to 4.1%. Wage growth and labor force participation showed signs of cooling.
In Gaza's tent camps, a fragile calm brings little comfort
Displaced Palestinians in Gaza describe a tense quiet as a shaky ceasefire holds, with little faith in promises of peace.
Spanish-Led Operation Dismantles Major Mediterranean Smuggling Ring
An international police operation led by Spain has dismantled a major Mediterranean smuggling network, arresting 78 people and seizing boats, cash, and drugs.
Japan's Military Shift Raises Regional Security Alarms
Japan's latest defense white paper signals a move from defensive to offensive military capability, alarming academics over regional stability.
Colombia's New President Sworn In in Cali, Vowing Hard Line on Armed Groups
Colombia's new president, Abelardo de la Espriella, was sworn in in Cali, signaling a hard-line approach to armed groups.
Thailand School Shooting: Ministers Vow Safety Crackdown After Student Kills 5
A 14-year-old student killed five staff at a Thai school near Bangkok before taking his own life. Ministers pledge stricter school security.
US payrolls unexpectedly fall in July, unemployment dips to 4.1%
US nonfarm payrolls fell by 23,000 in July, defying forecasts for growth, while the unemployment rate eased to 4.1%.
Suspended Grenada Priest Takes His Sermons to the Calypso Stage
A suspended Grenadian priest is using calypso to preach on Gaza and church abuse after being barred from official duties.
Danube rise offers brief relief, but Paks nuclear plant stays at 10% capacity
Hungary expects a temporary Danube rise, but the Paks nuclear plant continues to operate at 10% capacity due to low water levels.
Murkowski Opposes Blanche for Attorney General, Confirmation in Jeopardy
Sen. Lisa Murkowski will vote against Todd Blanche's confirmation as attorney general, citing concerns about his independence from the White House.
US Probes Salmonella Outbreak Tied to Mexican Jalapenos
US health agencies are investigating a Salmonella Javiana outbreak linked to fresh jalapenos from Mexico, with 345 cases across 27 states.
Can a Black Democrat flip Mississippi's Senate seat? Scott Colom makes his case
Scott Colom, a Black Democrat, is challenging Republican Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith in Mississippi, betting on shifting demographics and voter turnout to pull off an upset.
Norway moves to halve grid and wind power approval times
Norway will simplify permits and cut processing times for onshore wind and grid projects to boost clean power and jobs.
Turkey, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia Sign Mutual Defense Pact
Turkey, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia signed a mutual defense agreement, while Houthi attacks escalate in Yemen and Saudi Arabia.
Pope Leo to Meet Abuse Survivors During Four-Day France Visit
Pope Leo XIV will meet clergy abuse survivors in France next month, part of a four-day visit covering Paris, Lourdes, and Metz.
Zelenskyy to Visit Serbia for First Time as Vucic Balances EU and Russia
Zelenskyy makes first official visit to Serbia, a key Russia ally, as Vucic navigates EU pressure and traditional ties.
Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Pakistan sign mutual defence pact in Mecca
Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan signed a joint defence agreement in Mecca, pledging mutual support against armed aggression.
Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Pakistan Sign Joint Defense Pact in Mecca
Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan signed a defense agreement in Mecca, pledging collective deterrence against aggression.
UK Watchdog Intensifies Oversight of Unregulated Lenders Over Crime Risks
UK's FCA steps up scrutiny of unregulated lenders and leasing firms to curb financial crime risks.
Colombia's De La Espriella Sworn In on Security Crackdown Pledge
Abelardo De La Espriella becomes Colombia's president, vowing security crackdowns and economic reform in a historic Cali inauguration.
Bus Driver Kicks Explosive Drone at German Airport, Lawmaker Says
A bus driver knocked an explosive drone out of the air at Leipzig/Halle airport, potentially averting a serious attack, a German lawmaker said.
Thai PM says school shooter used gun registered at his home
Thai PM says a 14-year-old used a gun registered at his address in a school shooting that killed five, calling it an act of individual stress, not criminality.
Dolomiti Superski to Pay €30 Million in Refunds and Vouchers After Antitrust Probe
Italy's antitrust watchdog closes probe into Dolomiti Superski, securing €30 million in refunds and discounts for skiers who bought passes in the last three seasons.
Murkowski breaks with GOP, vows to vote against Blanche for attorney general
Sen. Lisa Murkowski says she will oppose Todd Blanche's attorney general nomination, citing concerns over a proposed Jan. 6 fund.
Independents Back Key Progressive Policies, Poll Finds
A Varta Wire/Ipsos poll finds independent voters support progressive policies like higher taxes on billionaires and Medicare for all, but are wary of the socialist label.
Minibus Blast Near Damascus Injures 14, Three Critical
A blast on a minibus in a Damascus suburb injured 14, with three in critical condition. Authorities have not yet determined the cause.
Aluminum Smelter Plan Splits Oklahoma GOP in Governor's Race
A proposed aluminum smelter has divided Oklahoma Republicans ahead of the August 25 runoff for governor.
UN: Gaza Child Deaths Average One a Day Since Ceasefire
UN agencies report at least 300 children killed in Gaza since October ceasefire, alongside continued strikes and settler attacks.
Indonesia's President Yet to Finalise Central Bank Governor Pick
Indonesia's president has not finalised candidates for central bank governor, though interim chief Destry Damayanti is under consideration.
Norway's Sovereign Fund Urges SEC to Keep Climate Disclosure Rules
Norway's $2 trillion fund opposes SEC plan to scrap climate disclosure rules, citing investor needs.
Taiwan Air Force Runs Emergency Scramble Drill in Han Kuang Exercises
Taiwan's Air Force tested emergency takeoffs and missile loading at Hsinchu during the Han Kuang exercises, simulating responses to potential threats.
Saudi Arabia Warns of Imminent Two-Pronged Attack by Iran-Backed Forces
Saudi Arabia says intelligence points to imminent coordinated attacks from Iraqi militias and Yemen's Houthis, under IRGC supervision.
Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan Set to Sign Defense Pact
Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan are expected to sign a defense agreement on Friday, deepening security cooperation amid regional tensions.
Putin Approves Sale of State's 30.4% Stake in Sheremetyevo Airport
Russia's president has cleared the sale of the state's 30.4% stake in Sheremetyevo airport, with restrictions on foreign buyers.
Cubans Plan Lives Around Fleeting Power as Blackouts Drag On
In Cuba, prolonged blackouts have upended daily routines, with residents rushing to cook, clean, and store water during brief power windows.
France Forecasts 35% Drop in Maize Output, Lowest in Decades
France's farm ministry projects a 35% fall in grain maize output to 9.0 million tons, the lowest since 1980, due to severe summer weather.
Bank of Japan's September Rate Hike Expectations Grow
The Bank of Japan has lined up several speaking events ahead of its September policy meeting, signaling a potential rate hike.
Three inmates killed in separate Sri Lanka prison clashes
Three inmates died and 23 were injured in two prison clashes in Sri Lanka, linked to drug-related gang rivalries.
Ukrainian Drones Set Fire to Major Russian Retailer's Warehouse in Urals
Ukrainian long-range drones struck a Wildberries warehouse in Yekaterinburg, Russia, causing a fire but no casualties.
Student gunman kills six in Thai high school attack near Bangkok
A student opened fire at a Thai high school, killing six and wounding 22, after allegedly killing his grandparents.
Indonesia Resumes Mineral Exports After Rare-Earth Testing Delays
Indonesia resumes mineral exports after rare-earth testing delays, with alumina shipments leaving West Kalimantan.
France's maize harvest set to slump 35% to lowest in decades
France's grain maize crop is forecast to fall 35% to 9 million tonnes, the lowest since 1980, after heat and drought.
Kaohsiung Sirens Wail as Taiwan Tests Civil Defense in Air-Raid Drill
Kaohsiung held a 30-minute air-raid drill, halting traffic and transit, as Taiwan's VP inspected hospital readiness.
Japan's Q2 Yen Interventions Fail to Halt Currency's Slide
Japan's three Q2 currency interventions, totaling ¥11.73 trillion, failed to reverse the yen's decline against the dollar.
Syria corrects minibus blast toll: 14 wounded, no deaths
Syria's Health Ministry says a Damascus minibus explosion wounded 14, not killed 2, correcting an earlier toll.
Hiroshima Survivors Press Takaichi on Nuclear Principles as City Marks 81st Anniversary
Hiroshima survivors met PM Takaichi on the 81st anniversary, warning against revising Japan's Three Non-Nuclear Principles.
Europe Heatwave: Hungary Breaks Record, Germany Reports 11,900 Deaths
A severe European heatwave has broken a 121-year-old record in Hungary and caused an estimated 11,900 heat-related deaths in Germany this year.
Japan's pension giant posts record quarterly gain amid strategy debate
Japan's GPIF reports a record 24.1 trillion yen quarterly gain, fueling discussions on allowing greater investment flexibility within its portfolio.
Thai PM Expresses Shock After School Shooting Near Bangkok Kills Six
A student shot multiple people at a Thai high school near Bangkok, killing at least six. The PM called the incident 'so bad' and 'shouldn't have happened.'
Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan set to sign joint defence pact in Jeddah
Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan will sign a joint defence agreement on Friday, sources say, amid regional instability.
Hiroshima marks 81 years since atomic bombing with protests against arms exports
Protesters in Hiroshima marked the 81st atomic bombing anniversary, opposing Japan's lifting of lethal weapons export ban and urging adherence to non-nuclear principles.
UK House Prices Stagnate in July as Middle East Tensions Push Up Mortgage Costs
UK house prices were flat in July, with annual growth slowing to 0.1% — the weakest since November 2023 — as Middle East tensions lifted mortgage rates.
Euro zone bond yields set for sharpest weekly drop since June as Hormuz hopes fade
Euro zone yields head for biggest weekly fall since end-June on Hormuz optimism, but Friday's rebound shows tensions persist.
EU Approves Bavarian Nordic's Mpox Vaccine for Children Aged 2-12
Bavarian Nordic receives European Commission approval for its mpox/smallpox vaccine for children aged 2 to under 12.
European Commission Approves Mpox Vaccine for Children Aged 2-12
EU regulators approve Bavarian Nordic's mpox/smallpox vaccine for children aged 2 to under 12 years.
German exports and factory output beat forecasts in June
German exports and industrial production rose more than expected in June, signaling renewed momentum in the second quarter.
Global Roundup: China Exports Surge, Trump Signs New Orders, Israel Coalition Strains
China's exports beat forecasts on AI demand; Trump signs new orders; Smotrich faces political survival fight.
Russia Warns Japan's Military Shift Threatens Global Stability
Russia says Japan's accelerating military buildup and nuclear policy review undermine regional and global security.
Energy Security After Iran War: Refining, Electrification, or Both?
The Iran war has closed the Strait of Hormuz, pushing fuel importers like Australia to weigh costly new refineries against electrification.
BOJ board members to signal September rate hike in pre-meeting speeches
BOJ board members will deliver speeches before the September policy meeting, widely expected to result in a rate hike.
Japan's food self-sufficiency slips to 37%, far short of 2030 goal
Japan's calorie-based food self-sufficiency fell to 37% in FY2024, below the 45% target for 2030, as rice consumption declines and import reliance persists.
ICE Body Camera Rollout Marred by Vague Public Release Rules
ICE is equipping officers with body cameras, but its release policy grants broad discretion to withhold footage, raising accountability concerns.
Fatal Shooting Reported at Thai High School, Police Respond
Police responded to a shooting at a Thai high school on Friday, with reports of deaths and injuries.
China expels ex-banking regulator Li Yunze from parliament over violations
China's parliament has removed Li Yunze, former head of the NFRA, over serious discipline and law violations, months after his demotion.
Typhoon Dolphin shuts Okinawa airport, forces evacuations
Typhoon Dolphin approaches Okinawa, closing Naha Airport and sending hundreds to shelters as Japan braces for severe weather.
Typhoon Dolphin shuts Okinawa airport, injures three as it nears Japan
Typhoon Dolphin approaches southern Japan, closing Okinawa's main airport and injuring three people as residents brace for heavy rain and wind.
European startups race to build next-generation firefighting aircraft
European startups are developing new water-bombers to replace ageing Canadair fleets, facing technical, financial, and certification hurdles.
Student Opens Fire at Thai High School, Casualties Reported (2026-08-07)
A student opened fire at a high school in Thailand's Nonthaburi province, causing deaths and injuries. The shooter remains inside the school.
Trump's Grass Obsession: A President's Fixation With Lawns
President Trump has mentioned grass at least 45 times in 18 months, blending his golf-course expertise with White House renovation plans.
US July Jobs Report Expected to Show Modest Hiring Amid Mixed Labor Signals
US likely added 98,000 jobs in July, but long-term unemployment and hiring struggles persist for younger workers.
Philippines GDP Growth Slows to 2.3% in Q2, Weakest Since 2021
Philippine Q2 GDP grew 2.3%, the slowest since 2021, as construction fell and investment shrank. First-half growth is 2.6%.
Rare Midwinter Antarctic Rescue Flies American Patient to New Zealand Hospital
An Australian crew flew an American from Antarctica to New Zealand in a rare midwinter rescue, landing in extreme cold and darkness.
Fuego Volcano Eruption Forces Mass Evacuations in Guatemala
Guatemala's Fuego volcano erupts, forcing hundreds to evacuate; a tourist plane crash in Peru kills 13; Cuba faces a sixth blackout.
China's July exports surge 23.9% on AI demand, tariff front-loading
China's July exports rose 23.9% year-on-year, beating forecasts, driven by AI-related high-tech goods and tariff front-loading.
South Korea fuel cargoes reach Russia in rare late-July trade
Traders sent about 30,000 tonnes of refined fuels from South Korea to Russia in late July, including diesel and jet fuel, data shows.
US July Jobs Report Expected to Show Steady Labor Market, 80K Payroll Gain
US job growth likely picked up in July, with payrolls forecast to rise by 80,000 and unemployment steady at 4.2%.
Kenya Farmers Question Cyanide Theory in Elephant Deaths
Farmers near Kenya's Amboseli park dispute claims that cyanide-tainted tomatoes killed 15 elephants, urging further investigation into the deaths.
Japan's April Yen Intervention Set Daily Record as Pressure Persists
Japan's April 30 yen-buying intervention was its largest ever at 6.28 trillion yen, yet the currency has slid past 158 per dollar again.
Strait of Hormuz Deal Tests Trump's Willingness to Compromise
Negotiations to reopen the Strait of Hormuz hinge on whether Trump can accept a compromise that gives Iran a measure of control over the vital waterway.
Europe's Heatwave Is Now a Market Signal Investors Can't Ignore
Record heat is disrupting supply chains, fueling inflation worries, and driving growth in climate-risk financial products across Europe.
Immigration Crackdown Hits Families of Active-Duty US Troops
Over 50 relatives of active-duty US troops have been detained in the immigration crackdown, raising concerns about military readiness.