Israeli police raided the Educational Bookshop in east Jerusalem, detaining owners Ahmed and Mahmoud Muna and confiscating books they claimed incited violence. The bookstore, a cultural hub for over 40 years, offers books on the Middle East conflict. Police cited a children’s book as an example of incitement. The Muna brothers’ appeal was denied, and they remain in custody. The raid highlights tensions over east Jerusalem, which Palestinians envision as their future capital. Penelope Kingsley 11/02/2025 4:30 am
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty informed U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio that Arab states oppose President Trump’s plan to displace Palestinians in Gaza. Abdelatty emphasized the need for Gaza’s reconstruction while Palestinians remain. The U.S. State Department’s statement didn’t mention Trump’s plan but highlighted cooperation for Gaza’s governance and security, stressing that Hamas should not govern Gaza. Abdelatty expressed eagerness to work with the new U.S. administration for peace and stability. He also met with U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, reiterating similar points. Penelope Kingsley 11/02/2025 4:30 am
Hamas has postponed the release of Israeli hostages, citing Israeli violations of the ceasefire, including delays in returning displaced Palestinians and restricted humanitarian aid. Israel’s defense minister condemned this as a ceasefire breach and heightened military alertness. The delay coincides with a rally for hostage Alon Ohel’s birthday. The UN urged adherence to the ceasefire, while Hamas indicated the exchange could proceed if Israel complies. The situation follows controversial US proposals on Gaza’s future, praised by Israel’s Prime Minister. Ava Sinclair 11/02/2025 4:30 am
The Vatican criticized U.S. plans to cut USAID funding, calling it “reckless” and potentially deadly for millions. Cardinal Michael Czerny emphasized the importance of Christian principles in caring for others. Caritas warned that halting USAID could lead to widespread poverty and death. USAID, managing over $40 billion, is crucial for global aid. The Trump administration, with Elon Musk’s support, has frozen USAID funding, though a judge temporarily halted staff cuts. Czerny acknowledged the right to review budgets but stressed the importance of honoring commitments. Noah Prescott 11/02/2025 1:00 am
Researchers from NGO Condrik were surprised by a rare sighting of an adult abyssal humpback anglerfish near the surface off Tenerife, possibly the first daylight sighting. Typically found at depths of 200-2,000 meters, the fish was spotted by photographer David Jara Boguñá. The fish, in poor condition, survived only a few hours. Scientists speculate El Niño might have influenced its surfacing. The specimen was taken to the Museum of Nature and Archaeology for further study, marking a significant event for marine biology. Ava Sinclair 11/02/2025 1:00 am
An Israeli police raid on Palestinian bookshops in East Jerusalem and the detention of owners Mahmoud and Ahmad Muna have sparked outrage among cultural and diplomatic communities. The men, accused of incitement, were detained in harsh conditions. Police seized books with “Palestine” in the title, citing security concerns. Critics, including author Nathan Thrall, view this as an attack on Palestinian cultural institutions, reflecting broader efforts to suppress Palestinian nationalism in the region. Penelope Kingsley 10/02/2025 9:30 pm
Russian soldiers received sabotaged drone headsets that exploded when turned on, supplied as humanitarian aid, according to Russian media. The headsets, identified as Skyzone Cobra X v4, contained plastic explosives. The incident underscores risks in military supply chains and crowdfunded gear. No injuries or fatalities were reported. Business Insider couldn’t verify the report, and neither Skyzone nor JSC NPP responded to requests for comment. The Defense Intelligence of Ukraine hasn’t claimed responsibility, and consumer-grade FPV drones are widely used by both Ukraine and Russia. Penelope Kingsley 10/02/2025 9:30 pm
Hamas postponed a scheduled hostage release in Gaza, accusing Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement. Israel called this a “complete violation” and prepared for potential military action. Hamas cited alleged Israeli breaches, including attacks and blocking aid. Israeli Defense Minister Katz ordered military readiness, and Prime Minister Netanyahu held security consultations. Hostage families urged mediating countries to restore the ceasefire. The January deal was mediated by the U.S. and Qatar. The Hostage and Missing Families Forum supports the Israeli government in ensuring the agreement’s continuation. Penelope Kingsley 10/02/2025 9:30 pm
Vice President JD Vance visits Paris to advocate for a more open approach to AI oversight, meeting with leaders like Macron and Modi. He will continue his diplomatic tour in Germany at the Munich Security Conference, urging increased NATO and Ukraine support. Meanwhile, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries criticizes Republican efforts to extend Trump-era tax cuts, warning they could lead to Medicaid cuts, affecting hospitals nationwide. Ava Sinclair 10/02/2025 9:30 pm
Romania’s outgoing president Klaus Iohannis resigned to avoid impeachment by opposition parties, amid political turmoil and rising far-right influence. The country’s top court had voided a previous election due to alleged Russian interference. Iohannis, unpopular and facing corruption allegations, stepped down to prevent a crisis. Senate speaker Ilie Bolojan will serve as interim president. Far-right candidate Calin Georgescu remains popular, though his candidacy in the upcoming May election is uncertain. Penelope Kingsley 10/02/2025 6:00 pm
