4N — Fast News Briefings, Today's Headlines

U.S. mortgage rates have surpassed 7% for the first time since early 2025, intensifying financial pressure on homebuyers and raising concerns about broader economic stability. Meanwhile, a powerful nor’easter is battering the U.S. East Coast with flooding and strong winds, disrupting coastal communities and threatening critical infrastructure across several states.

In Washington, the Senate narrowly rejected a resolution to limit Donald Trump’s Iran war powers, preserving presidential authority amid growing partisan divisions and heightened tensions in the region. On the diplomatic front, the U.S. and China have agreed to extend their trade truce as Xi Jinping begins a high-stakes state visit to Washington, signaling ongoing efforts to ease friction between the world’s two largest economies. At the United Nations, the UK’s £88 million aid pledge for Palestinians comes as Gaza’s economic crisis draws global concern and sparks fresh protests.

Developing: Authorities are investigating the deaths of two University of Mississippi students after kratom was found at both scenes, fueling scrutiny of the substance.