A coordinated law enforcement operation dismantled the dark web sites of the 8Base ransomware gang. The takedown involved agencies from multiple countries, including the FBI and Europol. Four European nationals were arrested in Thailand as part of Operation Phobos Aetor. Authorities seized over 40 pieces of evidence linked to Phobos ransomware attacks on 17 Swiss companies. The 8Base gang, known for double extortion, allegedly earned $16 million from over 1,000 global victims. They have ties to RansomHouse, sharing similar ransom notes and infrastructure. Noah Prescott 11/02/2025 6:30 pm
The Israeli military confirmed that Shlomo Mansour, an 86-year-old Israeli man, was killed during Hamas’s 7 October 2023 attack and his body is held in Gaza. Mansour was abducted from Kibbutz Kissufim, while his wife escaped. His death was confirmed based on intelligence and approved by a health ministry committee. Mansour is listed among hostages to be released by Hamas under a strained ceasefire deal. So far, 16 Israeli hostages and five Thai hostages have been freed in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Ava Sinclair 11/02/2025 6:30 pm
Italian police conducted major raids against Mafia clans in Palermo, involving over 1,200 officers. The operation aimed to dismantle the Mafia’s influence and prevent the reformation of its governing body, the Cupola. Despite many bosses being jailed, they continued activities using encrypted phones. Police discovered these communications through surveillance but haven’t cracked the encryption. The raids targeted various city areas, with authorities still pursuing members using nicknames like Robert de Niro and Spider Man. Ava Sinclair 11/02/2025 6:30 pm
Donald Trump’s comments on Gaza emphasize its real estate potential, suggesting it could become the “Riviera of the Middle East.” This aligns with Jared Kushner’s views on Gaza’s value. Trump’s business interests in the Middle East include partnerships with Saudi Arabia’s Dar Global for luxury projects, such as a hotel and golf resort in Oman and Trump Towers in Jeddah and Dubai. The Trump Organization, led by his sons, focuses on expanding its real estate and hospitality ventures in the region. Ava Sinclair 11/02/2025 6:30 pm
President Trump aims to end the Ukraine conflict, suggesting potential negotiations for a cease-fire. Analysts believe he might push Europe to enforce any deal, reducing U.S. involvement. The challenge is securing Ukraine and preventing future Russian aggression. This has sparked debate over deploying European troops to maintain peace, with discussions expected at the Munich Security Conference. Some European nations, including the Baltics, France, and Britain, are open to contributing troops, while Germany considers the idea premature. Ava Sinclair 11/02/2025 3:00 pm
The UK and US did not sign an international AI agreement at a Paris summit, which was endorsed by countries like France, China, and India. The agreement promotes an “open,” “inclusive,” and “ethical” AI approach. The UK cited national interests for not signing, while US Vice President JD Vance warned against over-regulation, advocating for “pro-growth AI policies.” This stance contrasts with French President Macron’s call for more regulation. Critics argue the UK’s decision risks its reputation as a leader in AI safety. The agreement also addresses AI’s energy use and aims to reduce digital divides. Noah Prescott 11/02/2025 3:00 pm
Trump warned that if hostages in Gaza aren’t freed, “all hell is going to break out,” and suggested canceling the ceasefire would lead to unpredictable consequences. He stated that Israel has the final say on the matter. Trump hinted at possible U.S. action against Hamas and mentioned withholding aid to Jordan and Egypt if they don’t accept Gaza refugees. Meanwhile, Hamas delayed hostage releases, accusing Israel of ceasefire violations, which Israel denies. Noah Prescott 11/02/2025 3:00 pm
A teacher in her 40s fatally stabbed an eight-year-old girl at a school in Daejeon, South Korea, shocking the nation. The teacher, who had previously requested leave for depression, confessed to the crime. Authorities are investigating, and South Korea’s acting president has called for measures to prevent such incidents. The teacher had shown violent behavior days before the stabbing. She was not teaching classes and had no prior relationship with the student. The school was closed, and locals laid flowers in tribute. Penelope Kingsley 11/02/2025 11:30 am
Vice President JD Vance emphasized the U.S. commitment to safeguarding American AI and chip technologies, blocking their misuse by authoritarian regimes. Speaking at France’s AI Action Summit, Vance highlighted the threat posed by regimes using AI for military and surveillance purposes. He assured that the U.S. will work with allies to protect these technologies and prevent adversaries from gaining threatening AI capabilities. Vance criticized cheap, subsidized tech from authoritarian regimes, warning allies against collaborating with such firms, as it risks compromising national security. Ava Sinclair 11/02/2025 11:30 am
A Hamas official stated that Israeli hostages in Gaza will only be released if the ceasefire is respected, rejecting U.S. President Trump’s threats. Trump warned of canceling the ceasefire if hostages aren’t freed by Saturday. Hamas accuses Israel of violating the ceasefire. Israeli PM Netanyahu vowed to retrieve all hostages. Trump’s stance has angered Palestinians and Arab leaders, disrupting U.S. policy on a two-state solution. Trump proposed relocating Gaza’s residents to redevelop the area, meeting with Jordan’s King Abdullah amid tensions. Penelope Kingsley 11/02/2025 11:30 am