1. CONFLICT BREAKS OUT BETWEEN INDIA AND PAKISTAN

India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire on Saturday following U.S.-led negotiations aimed at de-escalating one of the most serious military standoffs between the two nuclear-armed nations in decades. The conflict had intensified after a mass shooting of tourists in Indian-controlled Kashmir, which India blamed on Pakistan. Both sides launched missile strikes before agreeing to stop. However, just hours after the deal, each country accused the other of violating the truce, with explosions reported in Indian cities. While both nations say they remain committed to peace, the immediate future of the ceasefire remains uncertain. Write a brief position paper (1–2 paragraphs) analyzing the risks and potential benefits of a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. Consider the role of nuclear weapons, international diplomacy (such as U.S. involvement), and the challenge of maintaining trust when past violations occur. Use specific examples from the article to support your points.

2. NEW POPE CHOSEN

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, an American and former bishop in Peru, has been elected Pope Leo XIV. His rise to the papacy presents a major contrast to President Trump’s “America First” approach to global politics. While Trump emphasizes strong borders and aggressive foreign policy, Pope Leo is focused on helping refugees, addressing climate change, and promoting compassion. Although he was born in the U.S., Pope Leo has spent most of his life overseas and speaks several languages. He avoided talking about the U.S. during his introduction as pope, possibly signaling a more global and less nationalistic focus. Some Trump supporters dislike his views, while others are hopeful about his conservative positions on issues like abortion. It’s unclear how vocal he will be on U.S. politics, but many believe he could become a powerful moral voice on the world stage. Write a short essay comparing how Pope Leo XIV and President Trump represent different views of American influence in the world. Use examples from the article to explain how each figure’s background, beliefs, and actions shape how they are seen globally. What impact might this have on how other countries view the United States?

3. TAX DEBATE

Republicans in Congress are divided over the state and local tax (SALT) deduction, an issue that could derail their plans to pass a large fiscal package this year. A group of GOP lawmakers from high-tax states like New York and New Jersey want to raise or eliminate the current $10,000 SALT cap, which limits how much people can deduct on their federal taxes. These lawmakers argue that the cap hurts middle-class families and discourages investment in local services, while critics say lifting the cap would mostly benefit the wealthy. The dispute has stalled progress on the tax bill, which also includes other major tax cut plans. Without a deal, parts of the 2017 Trump tax law could expire, which would raise taxes overall but also remove the SALT cap by default. Research what state and local taxes are used for in your community. Create a short report or presentation explaining how this money helps pay for things like schools, roads, emergency services, and parks. Include examples from your own city or town if possible, and describe why some people think being able to deduct these taxes on federal tax returns is important.

4. AT-HOME CANCER SCREENING APPROVED

The FDA has approved the first at-home test in the U.S. to screen for cervical cancer, offering a new option for people who can’t or don’t want to get a traditional Pap smear. This test, made by Teal Health, checks for HPV (the virus that causes most cervical cancer) using a simple swab and mail-in process. Studies show it’s about as accurate as Pap smears. If the test is positive, patients will be referred for follow-up care like a Pap smear or biopsy. Experts say the test could help more people get screened, especially those who don’t regularly see a doctor, but stress it’s not a full replacement for in-person exams. Research how HPV leads to cervical cancer and how regular screenings can prevent it. Then, write a short explanation for someone your age about why access to at-home tests could improve public health, especially for people who face challenges getting medical care. Include at least one risk and one benefit of the new test.

5. APPLE’S LEGAL BATTLES CONTINUE

Apple is facing serious legal trouble after a judge found the company in contempt of court for trying to avoid following a ruling about its App Store. In 2023, a judge said Apple had to let apps link to outside websites for payments, instead of forcing them to use Apple’s system, which charges up to 30% in fees. But Apple secretly created a plan to still collect a 27% fee and made it look like an outside expert supported it — even though the study was commissioned by Apple just to back up their decision. The court also found that an Apple executive lied under oath and that the company tried to hide key documents. This situation could hurt Apple’s reputation in future lawsuits and lead to more pressure from governments around the world to change its business practices. Research how app stores like Apple’s work, especially how they make money. Then write a short opinion piece: Should app developers be forced to use a company’s payment system, or should they be allowed to direct users elsewhere without extra fees? Use examples from this case and explain your reasoning.