The United Nations is preparing for potential changes in U.S. engagement and funding with Donald Trump’s possible return as president. A senior Asian diplomat expressed a sense of “déjà vu and some trepidation” following Trump’s election victory over Kamala Harris. Despite concerns, there is hope that a transactional Trump administration might still engage with the U.N. on certain issues, recognizing the U.N.’s global significance. Ava Sinclair 08/11/2024 11:00 am
Early Thursday, Israeli airstrikes targeted Beirut’s southern suburbs, including near Lebanon’s international airport, citing Hezbollah facilities. Israel expanded its ground operation in northern Gaza, targeting Beit Lahiya. Hezbollah leader Naim Kassem expressed willingness for cease-fire talks if Israeli aggression stops. The conflict, which began after Palestinian militants attacked Israel on October 7, has resulted in over 3,100 deaths in Lebanon and 43,000 in Gaza. Lebanon reported 52 deaths and 161 injuries on Wednesday amid ongoing airstrikes and shelling. Ava Sinclair 08/11/2024 7:30 am
The UN stated it is not responsible for replacing UNRWA in Gaza and the West Bank, emphasizing Israel’s obligations as an occupying power. This follows Israel’s decision to cut ties with UNRWA, risking its operations’ collapse. Israel plans to ban UNRWA by January 2025. The UN insists Israel must provide essential services if UNRWA ceases operations. The UN views Gaza and the West Bank as Israeli-occupied, holding Israel accountable for humanitarian needs. Tensions remain high following recent conflicts between Israel and Hamas. Penelope Kingsley 08/11/2024 7:30 am
Ukrainian President Zelensky reported that 11,000 North Korean troops are in Russia’s Kursk region, engaging in combat against Ukrainian forces, resulting in unspecified fatalities. The New York Times confirmed North Korean casualties. This development raises concerns about the growing military ties between Moscow and Pyongyang. Meanwhile, Ukraine and NATO are assessing the potential impact of US President-elect Donald Trump’s stance on the war, as he suggests ending the conflict swiftly and hints at pressuring Ukraine for concessions. Russian President Putin expressed readiness for dialogue with Trump. Noah Prescott 08/11/2024 7:30 am
Former CIA director Leon Panetta predicts that Donald Trump, as president, will give Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a “blank check” in the Middle East, potentially escalating conflict with Iran. Panetta suggests Trump will support Netanyahu’s aggressive actions, raising concerns about ongoing Middle East instability. Additionally, Panetta expects Trump to favor Russia retaining control over parts of Ukraine, diverging from Biden’s military support for Ukraine. Despite Trump’s admiration for Putin, Panetta doubts Trump will have free rein in negotiations, citing his unsuccessful talks with North Korea’s Kim Jong-un. Penelope Kingsley 08/11/2024 7:30 am
The Israeli military expanded its ground operation in northern Gaza to include Beit Lahiya, targeting Hamas militants. This follows a year-long encirclement of northern Gaza and a recent offensive in Jabaliya. The conflict began after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, leading to significant casualties on both sides. Israel’s response has resulted in over 43,000 Palestinian deaths, with more than half being women and children. Amid ongoing operations, Israel is facilitating evacuations from combat zones, with no plans to allow northern Gaza residents to return home. Penelope Kingsley 08/11/2024 4:00 am
Iranians are divided on Donald Trump’s potential presidency, with some fearing increased tensions and others hoping for unexpected diplomacy. Most expect changes in US-Iran relations. Political analyst Ahmad Zeidabadi predicts Trump will apply tougher measures, while Iran’s Supreme Leader remains critical. However, Iran’s reformist president is open to talks for economic relief. The US-Iran relationship has been strained since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, worsened by Trump’s “maximum pressure” policy and withdrawal from the nuclear deal. Iranian media reacted negatively to Trump’s reelection, while public opinion in Tehran is mixed. Noah Prescott 08/11/2024 12:30 am
Germany’s coalition government collapsed after Chancellor Olaf Scholz dismissed Finance Minister Christian Lindner, prompting Lindner’s Free Democrats Party (FDP) to exit the coalition. Scholz now leads a minority government with the Green Party and plans a confidence vote on January 15. If lost, elections could occur by March 2024, earlier than the scheduled September 2025. This political crisis coincides with global uncertainties, including Donald Trump’s re-election. Snap elections are rare in Germany, with the last in 2005, following a call by then-Chancellor Gerhard Schröder. Noah Prescott 08/11/2024 12:30 am
Three individuals have been charged in connection with Liam Payne’s death at CasaSur Palermo Hotel. A businessman friend, a hotel worker, and an alleged drug dealer are accused of supplying Payne with narcotics. The friend, who falsely claimed to be Payne’s manager, faces charges of abandonment and narcotics facilitation, potentially facing 5-15 years in prison. The hotel worker and alleged dealer are charged with supplying cocaine. Authorities conducted extensive investigations, including reviewing footage and seizing evidence. Payne’s body has been returned to Great Britain for funeral services. Noah Prescott 08/11/2024 12:30 am
The Israeli army distanced itself from Brig Gen Itzik Cohen’s comments about permanently evacuating northern Gaza residents, stating they were taken out of context. Cohen mentioned no civilians remain in the north and aid would enter the south. The IDF clarified that aid is allowed into northern Gaza, contradicting residents’ claims of no aid since October 5. Rights groups allege Israel is executing a plan to force northern Gaza evacuations, despite Israeli denials. Recent attacks reportedly killed 17 people in Gaza. Penelope Kingsley 08/11/2024 12:30 am
