The encounter between Jill Biden and Donald Trump at the Notre Dame reopening in Paris sparked widespread speculation. A viral photo showed Jill smiling and conversing with Trump, leading to online theories about her support for him despite past criticisms. Joe Biden was absent, with no explanation from the White House. Elon Musk attended with Trump, marking Trump’s first international appearance post-election victory. This was Jill’s last foreign trip as First Lady. Social media buzzed with comments about Jill’s demeanor towards Trump, with some humorously suggesting she backed him in the 2024 election. Penelope Kingsley 09/12/2024 9:30 am
Bashar Barhoum, a 63-year-old writer imprisoned in Damascus, was freed by rebels as they ended the Assad family’s 50-year rule in Syria. Initially fearing execution, Barhoum was liberated along with many political prisoners. Videos showed prisoners celebrating their release. Syria’s prisons are notorious for torture, executions, and starvation, with evidence of these abuses highlighted by a 2013 defector’s photographs. Barhoum expressed gratitude for his unexpected freedom and sought to contact his family. Penelope Kingsley 09/12/2024 9:30 am
After 13 years of civil war, Syrian opposition militias launched a successful offensive, seizing Aleppo and reaching Damascus, ending Assad’s rule. The operation, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and its leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani, capitalized on Assad’s weakened allies and demoralized army. Turkey, a key backer of the opposition, was informed of the plan despite considering HTS a terror group. The rebels sensed a shift in Turkey’s stance after failed diplomatic efforts with Assad, urging Ankara not to intervene. Penelope Kingsley 09/12/2024 9:30 am
An arson attack on Melbourne’s Adass Israel Synagogue is being investigated as a terrorist incident. Australian officials have launched a task force, Operation Avalite, to combat rising antisemitism. The attack, deemed “horrific” by Victoria Police, is linked to recent antisemitic incidents. Authorities are searching for three suspects. Prime Minister Albanese announced increased security funding for Jewish sites. Israeli PM Netanyahu condemned the attack, linking it to Australia’s support for a UN resolution on Israel. Jewish communities report increased antisemitic attacks since October 2023. Penelope Kingsley 09/12/2024 9:30 am
President Joe Biden addressed the nation, declaring the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime a “historic opportunity” for Syrians. He acknowledged the regime’s brutality and highlighted the risks and uncertainties ahead. Biden assured support for Syria’s neighbors and emphasized the U.S. commitment to the security of Americans in Syria, including efforts to return kidnapped journalist Austin Tice. He described the situation as a significant chance for Syrians to shape their future. Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump had previously called the Syrian situation a “mess” and advised against U.S. involvement. Penelope Kingsley 09/12/2024 9:30 am
South Korean investigators are considering a travel ban on President Yoon Suk Yeol amid a probe into his brief martial law decree. Oh Dong-woon, chief prosecutor of the Corruption Investigation Office, announced the potential ban during a parliamentary hearing. The investigation involves multiple law enforcement bodies examining possible rebellion charges. Despite presidential immunity, Yoon could theoretically be questioned or detained, though practical enforcement remains uncertain. Political turmoil continues as opposition parties plan a new impeachment motion after a failed attempt. Penelope Kingsley 09/12/2024 6:00 am
The fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria marks a significant blow to Russia’s prestige. For nearly a decade, Russian military support had kept Assad in power, asserting Russia’s global influence. However, recent events saw Damascus fall, with Assad reportedly seeking asylum in Moscow. This unexpected turn undermines Russia’s strategic objectives and its long-term military presence in Syria, including key leases on air and naval bases. The Kremlin expressed deep concern over the situation, highlighting the dramatic unraveling of its Syria project. Ava Sinclair 09/12/2024 6:00 am
President Bashar al-Assad’s government in Syria collapsed rapidly after opposition forces advanced on Damascus. Assad, who had relied on Iranian and Russian support during a 13-year civil war, fled to Russia, reportedly receiving political asylum. The rebel offensive lasted less than two weeks, with Assad deciding to leave his post and transfer power peacefully. His prime minister, Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali, remained in Syria, expressing readiness to cooperate with the rebels as they took control of Damascus with minimal resistance. Ava Sinclair 09/12/2024 2:30 am
President Joe Biden described the fall of the Assad regime in Syria as both a “moment of risk” and a “historic opportunity.” He outlined the US’s commitment to supporting the region, emphasizing efforts to prevent ISIS’s resurgence. Biden announced dozens of US airstrikes targeting ISIS in Syria and pledged to support Syria’s neighbors during the transition. He stressed the importance of securing detention facilities and conducting precision strikes. Biden plans to engage with regional leaders and deploy US officials to ensure ISIS does not exploit the situation. Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump advocates a hands-off approach. Penelope Kingsley 09/12/2024 2:30 am
Abu Mohammed al-Jawlani, now using his real name Ahmed al-Sharaa, has shifted from a jihadist leader to a rebel politician. Leading Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), he aims to legitimize his role as they capture Damascus. Jawlani’s transformation includes adopting a Western-style appearance and military attire. Born in Saudi Arabia, he grew up in Syria and began his jihadist journey in Iraq, linked to al-Qaeda. He founded al-Nusra Front in Syria, later distancing from ISI’s violent tactics, aligning with al-Qaeda instead. Noah Prescott 09/12/2024 2:30 am
