Where governments are treading a fine line…

Iran. Yesterday, protesters across the country launched a three-day strike. The demonstrations — which reportedly saw shops in as many as 40 towns and cities close their doors — follow conflicting reports that Iran’s morality police have been disbanded. That was after Iran’s attorney general said it would...but other agencies stayed silent. Now, the regime still hasn’t confirmed the AG’s comments. A top official says the “rioters,” who allegedly threatened store owners to close, will be dealt with and sentences will be carried out quickly. Meanwhile, senior politicians are reportedly set to visit universities in Tehran tomorrow where they’ll debate reforms with students on strike. 

China. Yesterday, some local governments continued to loosen up COVID-19 restrictions in major cities like Shanghai and Beijing. The decision to scale it back in some areas — like no longer requiring a test to board subways and buses — follows widespread protests calling for an end to the country’s strict “zero-COVID” policy. Chinese President Xi Jinping apparently hinted to EU officials that changes were on the way and credits weaker subvariants for the easements. But while officials are seemingly lightening their stances, the policy is still in place with no expiration date in sight. Instead, a senior health official has said the country’s pandemic controls are entering a “new stage and mission” with possible updates coming as soon as today. 

Who’s got some thinking to do…

SCOTUS. Yesterday, the court heard arguments — and seems on track to weigh in — in a free speech case. It all started back in 2016 when Lorie Smith, a Colorado-based web designer, sued the state over its anti-discrimination law barring public businesses from refusing services based on sexual orientation. Smith argues that forcing her to create custom websites for a same-sex wedding would violate her right to free speech. Liberal Justice Sonia Sotomayor says a ruling against Colorado would be “the first time” in the Supreme Court’s history that public businesses are able to refuse services based on race, sex, religion, or sexual orientation. Conservative Justice Samuel Alito questioned if people who offer customizable services should be forced to create “things they loathe.” Next up: the conservative-leaning court — which has recently ruled in favor of religious plaintiffs — is expected to have a ruling by June. 

Who people are remembering...

Kirstie Alley. Yesterday, the two-time Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actress died after a brief battle with cancer. She was 71. Alley rose to fame in 1982 when she starred in “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan.” But she was best known for her role as Rebecca Howe in the late '80s and early '90s sitcom, "Cheers." And as Veronica in "Veronica's Closet." Her children remembered her as an "amazing mother and grandmother." And Alley’s “Look Who’s Talking” co-star John Travolta said their friendship was “one of the most special” ones he’s ever had.

Who’s still making headlines instead of reporting them…

TJ Holmes and Amy Robach. Yesterday, the “GMA 3” co-hosts — and rumored lovers — were taken off the air. ABC News says there’s been no foul play, but that it’s a “distraction.” No word yet on when they’ll be back on screen. You stay classy, San Diego. 

Who’s calling a foul...

Nike on Kyrie Irving.

What there's always Time for...

Time’s 2022 Person of the Year shortlist.