On October 29, Utiel’s mayor, Ricardo Gabald贸n, closed schools due to severe weather warnings, a decision that likely saved lives as floods claimed 223 lives in Spain, including six in Utiel. The Valencian government delayed emergency alerts until after 8pm, despite severe flooding. The disaster, a level two emergency, raised questions about crisis management by the regional government, led by the conservative People’s Party, as emergency teams continue searching for 78 missing people. Noah Prescott 11/11/2024 12:30 pm
Tens of thousands protested in Valencia, demanding regional president Carlos Maz贸n’s resignation over his handling of catastrophic floods that killed over 200. Protestors clashed with police, who used batons. Maz贸n faces criticism for delayed flood alerts and a slow response. He defended his actions, citing unforeseeable crisis magnitude and insufficient warnings from central authorities. Protestors chanted for his resignation and left mud handprints on government buildings. Maz贸n acknowledged the protest but emphasized ongoing recovery efforts. Noah Prescott 11/11/2024 9:00 am
China’s J-35A stealth aircraft, showcased at the Zhuhai air show, marks over a decade of development. Despite its debut, details on its capabilities remain scarce. The J-35A, designed for air supremacy, and its carrier-based variant, the J-35, are smaller than the J-20 fighter. Developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, the J-35A may feature advanced WS-19 engines, enhancing range and performance. China’s past reliance on Russian engine tech is shifting towards domestic designs, crucial for advanced fighter efficiency. Noah Prescott 11/11/2024 9:00 am
Ukraine launched its largest drone strike on Moscow, deploying at least 34 drones, while Russia intercepted 29. This attack follows Russia’s massive drone assault on Ukraine, where 145 drones were launched, and Kyiv shot down 62. Ukrainian President Zelensky highlighted the ongoing threat to civilians and the increased use of drones by both sides since Russia’s 2022 invasion. Drones have become crucial military tools, with Russia using Iranian-made Shahed drones and Ukraine targeting various Russian assets to counterbalance power disparities. Ava Sinclair 11/11/2024 9:00 am
The Jewish Federations of North America held its General Assembly in Washington, D.C., starting with a Stand Together rally at Nationals Park, emphasizing support for Israel. Speakers included Jewish leaders, Israeli hostage family members, and officials like Rep. Ritchie Torres, who received a leadership award. Torres emphasized the need for truth and courage amid rising antisemitism, stating his pro-Israel stance aligns with his progressive values. The event, attended by a few thousand, featured remarks from figures like Israel’s Ambassador Michael Herzog and televised messages from Senator Chuck Schumer. Noah Prescott 11/11/2024 5:30 am
A 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit eastern Cuba, causing landslides, home and power line damage, and significant impact in Pil贸n. This follows a 5.9 quake and recent hurricanes, Oscar and Rafael, which caused widespread blackouts. Cuban President Miguel D铆az-Canel stated recovery efforts are underway. Residents reported the tremor as one of the strongest felt, affecting provinces like Santiago de Cuba, Holguin, and Guant谩namo. Images show cracked buildings and debris, highlighting the severe damage. Noah Prescott 11/11/2024 5:30 am
Israeli strikes on northern Lebanon and Gaza have killed dozens, including children, according to officials and rescuers. In Lebanon, 23 people, including seven children, died in Almat. In Gaza, at least 30 were killed, with 25, including 13 children, in Jabalia. The IDF claimed Hezbollah and terrorists were targeted, taking steps to minimize civilian harm. The strikes are part of Israel’s campaign against Hezbollah, with recent operations extending beyond southern Lebanon. Additionally, three medical workers died in a separate strike in Adloun. Ava Sinclair 11/11/2024 5:30 am
Olaf Scholz is considering a confidence vote before Christmas, amid pressure from various politicians, including his coalition partners, to expedite elections. Initially, Scholz planned a January vote with March elections after his coalition collapsed. Green lawmakers Anton Hofreiter and Irene Mihalic advocate for a December vote. Opposition leader Friedrich Merz also demands an earlier vote, accusing Scholz of clinging to power. Scholz denies this, aiming to finalize legislation before elections. Despite trailing in polls, Scholz believes his Social Democratic Party has a good chance in upcoming elections. Ava Sinclair 11/11/2024 5:30 am
An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8 struck eastern Cuba, centered 25 miles south of Bartolome Maso. Tremors were felt in cities like Santiago de Cuba, Holguin, and Guantanamo, and even in Jamaica. Despite the strong quake, there were no immediate reports of major damage or injuries. Residents in Santiago were shaken, with some reporting aftershocks and minor damage like crumbling roofs and cracked walls, especially in older buildings. Noah Prescott 11/11/2024 2:00 am
Dutch police detained over 300 pro-Palestinian protesters in Amsterdam who defied a demonstration ban, following clashes with Israeli soccer fans. The protest, involving chants against alleged genocide in Gaza, led to 340 people being removed and 50 detained. The ban, extended after antisemitic attacks on Israeli fans, was criticized by protest organizers. Israel warned its citizens about potential threats abroad, while French President Macron plans to attend a France-Israel match to promote solidarity. Four individuals remain detained for violent acts. Noah Prescott 11/11/2024 2:00 am
