Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant warned of a “lethal” retaliation to Iran’s missile strike, which followed Israel’s intensified airstrikes in Lebanon targeting Hezbollah. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu vowed to retaliate but hasn’t specified how or when. Despite US President Biden’s urging to avoid targeting Iran’s nuclear or oil sites, Netanyahu continues military actions against Hezbollah. The conflict has escalated, with Israel expanding operations in Lebanon and Gaza, resulting in significant casualties. Biden reiterated support for Israel, despite calls for cease-fires being ignored. Noah Prescott 10/10/2024 10:30 am
The social media platform X, owned by Elon Musk, returned to Brazil after a month-long suspension due to a legal clash with Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes. The suspension was lifted after X complied with demands, including blocking certain accounts and appointing a legal representative. This resolution highlights the influence of local laws on global tech companies. Brazil, a major market for X, welcomed the platform’s return, emphasizing its importance to millions of users. The situation may set a precedent for Musk’s dealings with other countries. Penelope Kingsley 10/10/2024 10:30 am
Following Hamas’ attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, Israel launched airstrikes on Gaza and began a ground invasion on October 27. The conflict has caused a severe humanitarian crisis, with nearly 2 million Gazans displaced and over 42,000 Palestinians killed. The violence has expanded, involving Hezbollah in Lebanon, Iran, and militias in Yemen and Iraq. Hostilities continue with no cease-fire, and the risk of famine in Gaza is widespread. Noah Prescott 10/10/2024 10:30 am
President William Lai, in his National Day address, reaffirmed Taiwan’s self-governing status and commitment to resisting Chinese annexation. He emphasized maintaining peace across the Taiwan Strait and expressed willingness to cooperate with Beijing on global issues. Lai asserted that Taiwan and China are not subordinate to each other, highlighting Taiwan’s thriving democracy. His speech was notably softer than previous ones, aiming to avoid provoking Beijing, though experts anticipate a strong reaction from China. Lai also rejected China’s claim as Taiwan’s “motherland,” citing historical timelines. Ava Sinclair 10/10/2024 7:00 am
Ratan Tata, aged 86, was a renowned Indian business leader who led the Tata Group, a vast conglomerate with over 100 companies and 660,000 employees, for over two decades. The Tata Group, founded by Jamsetji Tata, spans industries from automotive to steel and aviation. Known for its ethos of combining capitalism with philanthropy, the group is largely owned by a philanthropic trust. Born in 1937 to a Parsi family, Tata studied architecture at Cornell University and had a passion for flying. He returned to India in 1962. Penelope Kingsley 10/10/2024 7:00 am
A gang attack in Pont-Sondé, Haiti, on October 3 has left 115 dead, with the toll expected to rise as authorities search for more bodies. The Gran Grif gang surprised residents by approaching via canoes. Survivors criticized authorities for not preventing the attack despite prior warnings. Over 6,200 survivors fled to Saint-Marc, with many staying with relatives, while 750 are sheltering in public spaces. The police commissioner for the region was replaced following the attack. Ava Sinclair 10/10/2024 7:00 am
“War” by Bob Woodward chronicles Joe Biden’s presidency, focusing on his national security team, including Lloyd Austin, Antony Blinken, Jake Sullivan, and Kamala Harris. The book is more admiring of Biden than previous Woodward works, yet less confident in its narrative. Woodward uses “deep background” interviews, ensuring anonymity for his sources. The presidency is depicted as a collaborative effort, emphasizing teamwork in governance. The narrative is detailed, with procedural efficiency, and includes vivid descriptions of key figures like Ron Klain and Antony Blinken. Ava Sinclair 10/10/2024 3:30 am
Israel’s military operation in Lebanon is sending mixed signals, with expanded troop deployments and warnings to Lebanese civilians. Prime Minister Netanyahu urged Lebanese citizens to oppose Hezbollah or face destruction akin to Gaza. Observers see this as a choice between civil war or devastation. Israel’s stated goal is a “limited” operation to secure northern Israel from Hezbollah attacks, but actions suggest broader objectives. Netanyahu’s rhetoric may incite further conflict, as Hezbollah is deeply embedded in Lebanon’s political landscape, making opposition potentially violent. Noah Prescott 10/10/2024 3:30 am
Brown University rejected a proposal to divest from companies linked to the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories. The decision followed a committee’s recommendation against divestment, citing minimal investment impact and concerns over academic freedom. The university’s governing board voted after student protests and advocacy for divestment. The Brown Divest Coalition criticized the decision, calling it a moral failure, while the Anti-Defamation League supported it. The university maintains that divestment would undermine free inquiry and its mission. Ava Sinclair 10/10/2024 3:30 am
Ratan Tata, former chairman of Tata Group, has died at 86, the company announced. Just days earlier, he debunked health rumors, assuring followers he was in good spirits despite undergoing medical check-ups. Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran praised Tata’s commitment to excellence and innovation, highlighting his significant contributions to the Tata Group and India. Penelope Kingsley 10/10/2024 12:00 am
