Iranian-American journalist Reza Valizadeh, who worked for U.S.-funded Radio Farda, has reportedly been detained by Iran for months. The State Department confirmed his imprisonment. Valizadeh’s detainment coincides with Iran’s 45th anniversary of the U.S. Embassy takeover. Tensions are high as Iran’s Supreme Leader threatens the U.S. and Israel, following U.S. military deployments to the Middle East. Valizadeh had previously posted about family pressure to return to Iran and reportedly returned in March 2024 without safety assurances. Noah Prescott 03/11/2024 7:00 pm
Israel’s Shayetet 13 commandos conducted a raid in northern Lebanon, capturing senior Hezbollah operative Imad Amhaz, believed to hold key information on Hezbollah’s naval operations. The operation, part of Israel’s intensified military actions against Hezbollah, also targeted an underground compound in southern Lebanon, resulting in the seizure of weapons and the killing of several operatives. Hezbollah condemned the actions but did not confirm Amhaz’s affiliation. Israel’s military efforts aim to counter Hezbollah’s increased attacks, which have intensified since October 8, 2023, in support of Hamas. Noah Prescott 03/11/2024 7:00 pm
At least 31 Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza, with significant casualties in northern areas amid a month-long military campaign. Palestinians accuse Israel of “ethnic cleansing” through forced evacuations, which Israel denies, citing efforts to combat Hamas militants. The offensive has hindered a polio vaccination campaign, with reports of a clinic coming under fire. Despite a humanitarian pause for vaccinations, tensions remain high. The Israeli military has increased its presence in Jabalia, claiming hundreds of militants have been killed since early October. Penelope Kingsley 03/11/2024 3:30 pm
Moldova’s pro-Western President Maia Sandu faces a crucial runoff election against pro-Russian Alexandr Stoianoglo amid allegations of Russian interference. Sandu, who led the first round with 42.3%, failed to secure an outright win. A recent referendum narrowly supported European integration. Sandu accused Russia of buying votes and spreading disinformation. Authorities have intensified efforts to counteract these tactics, including detaining individuals allegedly plotting election-related disruptions. Moldova’s national security adviser reported significant Russian interference in the electoral process. Penelope Kingsley 03/11/2024 3:30 pm
Iran has reportedly detained Iranian-American journalist Reza Valizadeh, who previously worked for U.S.-funded Radio Farda. His detention coincides with heightened tensions as Iran marks the 45th anniversary of the U.S. Embassy takeover and threatens retaliation against Israel and the U.S. Valizadeh had indicated on social media that his family was detained to pressure his return to Iran. Despite Radio Farda’s hostile status in Iran, Valizadeh suggested he returned to Tehran in March 2024. Ava Sinclair 03/11/2024 3:30 pm
On Day 393, Hamas and Qatar demand an “all or nothing” deal, with no progress in negotiations. IDF intensifies operations in Jabalia, capturing 300 terrorists. Hezbollah launches over 130 rockets, with significant losses including their coastal unit commander. Iran continues to threaten attacks. In Gaza, 101 hostages remain captive, 36 confirmed murdered, and 117 rescued. The conflict has resulted in 1,739 Israeli deaths, including 371 soldiers in Gaza. Over 29,300 projectiles have been fired at Israel, displacing 88,000 Israelis. The nation remains united in prayer and charity. Penelope Kingsley 03/11/2024 12:00 pm
The U.S. conducted a trilateral drill with South Korea and Japan, deploying a B-1B bomber in response to North Korea’s test of the Hwasong-19 ICBM, which is capable of reaching the U.S. mainland. This exercise, the second of its kind this year, underscores the allies’ readiness to counter North Korea’s advancing missile programs. North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong Un, justified the missile test as a response to external threats. The U.S. often uses military deployments to counter North Korean missile tests, which typically provoke strong reactions from Pyongyang. Noah Prescott 03/11/2024 12:00 pm
At COP16, nearly all countries agreed on a groundbreaking deal to boost conservation funding, especially in poorer regions. The deal aims to raise over $1 billion annually by requiring companies using wild DNA for products to contribute a portion of profits or revenue to the UN-operated Cali fund. This fund will support biodiversity conservation, distributing money based on wildlife and genetic data production. The approach is inspired by research from the London School of Economics. Ava Sinclair 03/11/2024 8:30 am
Hezbollah claimed responsibility for missile and drone attacks on Israeli military and intelligence sites, including Unit 8200 and Palmachim Air Base, citing retaliation for alleged Israeli “massacres.” Israel’s military did not confirm the hits. Hezbollah also targeted northern Israeli towns with rockets. Israeli media reported drone damage near Nahariya. In response, an Israeli airstrike in Beirut killed one and injured 15, resuming strikes after a brief pause. A resident of Tira called for an end to the conflict. Penelope Kingsley 03/11/2024 8:30 am
Kemi Badenoch, the first black woman to lead a major UK political party, won the Conservative leadership, defeating Robert Jenrick. She aims to unite the party and regain lost voters after Rishi Sunak’s historic defeat. Badenoch emphasized returning to “first principles” and acknowledged past mistakes. She plans to announce her shadow cabinet soon, with Jenrick potentially in a senior role. Despite a challenging campaign, she seeks to renew the party and effectively oppose Keir Starmer’s Labour government. James Cleverly, who finished third, declined a role. Ava Sinclair 03/11/2024 5:00 am
