Israel is reducing its reliance on U.S. weapons following tensions over armament deliveries for conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. The Israeli Defense Ministry aims for “armament independence,” signing $275 million deals with Elbit Systems for heavy bombs and a raw materials plant. This move follows U.S. delays in shipping heavy bombs and growing Democratic opposition to arms transfers. The new plant will decrease reliance on imported materials, with Defense Ministry Director-General Eyal Zamir emphasizing the goal of full independence to maintain military strength. Ava Sinclair 09/01/2025 4:30 am
At least 13 people were killed and 32 injured in Russian shelling in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine. Regional head Ivan Fedorov reported that two guided bombs hit residential buildings. Footage shows a high-rise and vehicles on fire. Ukrainian President Zelensky urged allies to pressure Russia, calling the attack “terror.” The shelling began at 16:00 local time. Graphic images depict casualties and destruction. Zelensky emphasized the cruelty of targeting civilians and appealed for more support. A day of mourning is declared for Thursday. Noah Prescott 09/01/2025 4:30 am
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez criticized Elon Musk and his allies for attacking democratic institutions and inciting hatred, warning of rising authoritarianism. Speaking in Madrid ahead of the 50th anniversary of General Franco’s death, Sánchez emphasized the importance of safeguarding democracy and warned against the allure of autocratic promises. He highlighted the resurgence of fascist ideologies in Europe and stressed the need to combat disinformation. Sánchez’s remarks align with other European leaders, like Emmanuel Macron and Keir Starmer, who have also condemned Musk’s influence on politics. Sánchez announced events to celebrate Spain’s democratic progress. Penelope Kingsley 09/01/2025 1:00 am
Russia and North Korea reportedly lost around 400 troops in an attempt to capture Makhnovka in Kursk Oblast, as per Ukrainian President Zelensky. The village, located in a contested area, has seen intense fighting. Videos show Russian and North Korean forces being attacked by Ukrainian troops. Analyst Andrew Perpetua confirmed the casualties, noting he observed significant losses in a video. Despite being less active than other sectors, battles in Makhnovka and Plekhove have been particularly bloody. Penelope Kingsley 09/01/2025 1:00 am
Italian journalist Cecilia Sala, arrested in Iran last month, was released after diplomatic efforts between Rome and Tehran. She returned to Rome on Wednesday. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni credited diplomatic and intelligence work for her release. Sala was detained on December 19 for unspecified charges. Her arrest followed the detention of Iranian engineer Mohammad Abedini in Italy, accused of aiding a drone attack on U.S. troops. Penelope Kingsley 09/01/2025 1:00 am
Hadi Nazari, a 23-year-old medical student, was found after being missing for nearly two weeks in Australia’s Kosciuszko National Park. Surviving on berries and muesli bars, Nazari was discovered by hikers after a 13-day search involving over 300 people, rescue dogs, and helicopters. He had stayed behind to take photos during a trek, prompting a massive search when he failed to return. Despite being only six miles from the search command post, the challenging terrain made the rescue effort arduous. Noah Prescott 08/01/2025 9:30 pm
Iran’s defense systems intercepted projectiles resembling bunker busters over nuclear sites during routine drills, drawing media attention amid speculation about potential U.S. strikes. Analyst Mohammad Shaltouki noted Iran’s long-standing practice of intercepting such threats. The heightened focus is linked to reports of possible U.S. strike plans against Iran’s nuclear facilities, echoing past threats, especially during Obama’s presidency before the 2015 JCPOA. Penelope Kingsley 08/01/2025 9:30 pm
Brig. Gen. Behrouz Esbati, Iran’s top general in Syria, admitted Iran’s significant defeat following Bashar al-Assad’s ouster, contradicting Iran’s official stance. In a leaked speech, Esbati criticized strained Iran-Assad relations, revealing Assad’s refusal to let Iranian militias attack Israel from Syria. He accused Russia of misleading Iran about military actions and facilitating Israeli strikes by disabling radars. This candid admission contrasts with Iranian leaders’ downplaying of the strategic loss, who claimed respect for Syria’s political outcomes. Ava Sinclair 08/01/2025 9:30 pm
Italian journalist Cecilia Sala was released by Iran and returned to Italy after being detained in Tehran for allegedly violating Iranian laws. Her release followed diplomatic efforts by the Italian government. Sala’s detention coincided with the arrest of Iranian businessman Mohammad Abedini in Milan on a U.S. warrant. Italy denied that Sala’s detention was linked to Abedini’s case. Abedini remains in custody, awaiting a court decision on his extradition to the U.S. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani welcomed Sala upon her return. Noah Prescott 08/01/2025 6:00 pm
Hadi Nazari, a 23-year-old medical student, survived for two weeks on muesli bars, foraged berries, and creek water after getting lost in Kosciuszko National Park, Australia. Separated from his group on December 26, he was found after traveling over six miles through rugged terrain. A major search involved over 300 people. Nazari was rescued after approaching hikers, and was later reunited with friends and taken to a hospital. Despite limited food, he was in good spirits and condition, according to Police Inspector Josh Broadfoot. Noah Prescott 08/01/2025 2:30 pm
