Congress remains in recess this week despite reaching a breakthrough agreement to reopen the Department of Homeland Security through partial funding. The Senate unanimously approved the compromise during a procedural session, sending the measure back to the House for final consideration.

Funding Deal Gains Momentum

The agreement funds most of the Department of Homeland Security but excludes Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol from the current package. House Speaker Mike Johnson initially dismissed the plan but reversed course after President Donald Trump endorsed the compromise. Republicans plan to address ICE and Border Patrol funding separately through reconciliation legislation, which would bypass potential Democratic opposition in the Senate.

NATO Meeting Amid Alliance Tensions

President Trump meets with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House Wednesday as tensions rise over alliance participation in Iran military operations. Trump threatened to withdraw from NATO after member nations declined involvement in the conflict. A 2023 law requires congressional approval for any NATO withdrawal, limiting Trump’s unilateral authority. The legislation was cosponsored by current Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Military Rescue Follows Iran Incident

President Trump scheduled a Monday news conference with military members to address the successful rescue of two Air Force airmen. Iranian forces shot down their aircraft over the country Friday, stranding both crew members until their extraction. The rescue operation comes as the administration navigates ongoing military tensions with Iran while seeking NATO cooperation. The airmen’s safe return provides a diplomatic win amid broader foreign policy challenges facing the White House.