Jack Smith, the prosecutor who investigated former President Donald Trump, has publicly denounced the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) as 'corrupted,' claiming it operates under Trump's influence rather than upholding the rule of law. Smith's investigation, conducted under the Biden administration, examines potential federal crimes by Trump, including efforts to overturn the 2020 election results. He stated that the DOJ is targeting individuals based on Trump's personal grievances. In response, the White House has accused Smith of being a partisan figure working to undermine Trump. Meanwhile, there are indications of possible progress in peace negotiations with Iran, as Saudi Arabian state media reported on 'intensive negotiations' to ease U.S. restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz. This comes amid Trump's threats to resume military action against Iran. Additionally, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is currently in the Vatican for talks with Pope Leo, following a fallout between the U.S. and the Vatican over Iran-related issues.