In an interview on “Face the Nation,” House Speaker Mike Johnson discussed the recent hurricanes and the potential need for a $100 billion aid package. Despite calls for immediate congressional action, Johnson argued that it could wait because Congress had already allocated $20 billion to FEMA, of which less than 2% has been used. He emphasized the need for FEMA to distribute these funds to address immediate needs before considering additional aid. Ava Sinclair 13/10/2024 7:00 pm
Israeli strikes have disrupted life in Beirut, transforming its vibrant atmosphere. In Achrafieh, a wealthy Christian area previously untouched by conflict, residents experience fear as Israeli missiles target nearby locations. The strikes aim at Hezbollah figures, causing panic and altering the city’s dynamic, with empty bars and bookshops reflecting the tension. Noah Prescott 13/10/2024 7:00 pm
Spanish scientists have used DNA analysis to suggest that Christopher Columbus was a Sephardic Jew from Western Europe. This challenges the traditional belief that he was from Genoa, Italy. The 22-year investigation, led by forensic expert Miguel Lorente, analyzed remains in Seville Cathedral and compared them with known relatives. Findings, announced in a TVE documentary, indicate Jewish traits in Columbus’s lineage. Despite confirming the Seville remains as Columbus’s, researchers could only determine his Western European origin due to complex data. Ava Sinclair 13/10/2024 3:30 pm
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged U.N. peacekeepers to evacuate Lebanon as Israeli military operations against Hezbollah intensify. Israeli forces have targeted areas with first responders and peacekeepers, accusing Hezbollah of using ambulances for military purposes, though no evidence was provided. The Lebanese Red Cross reported paramedics were injured during an Israeli airstrike, despite coordination with U.N. peacekeepers. Jagan Chapagain of the IFRC emphasized the need to protect rescuers and respect the Red Cross emblem under International Humanitarian Law. Recent Israeli strikes have injured five peacekeepers. Noah Prescott 13/10/2024 3:30 pm
Lithuanians voted in parliamentary elections potentially replacing the center-right coalition with the opposition Social Democrats and smaller center-left parties. Despite economic growth, Prime Minister Ingrida Å imonytÄ—’s government faces criticism over strict COVID-19 measures and handling of migrant influxes. Many voters express disappointment, citing crises overshadowing economic gains. A poll suggests the Social Democrats lead, but no party would secure over 20% of votes, necessitating alliances. The Social Democrats rule out partnering with right-wing Nemuno AuÅ¡ra, requiring a coalition with smaller centrist parties. Ava Sinclair 13/10/2024 3:30 pm
A senior Palestinian diplomat at the UN has raised concerns over Israel’s siege of northern Gaza, where hundreds have died and many are trapped amid heavy bombardment. The siege, particularly affecting the Jabalia refugee camp, has led to at least 200 deaths since its start. Reports indicate ongoing violence, with 17 more killed recently, including entire families. The situation is described as genocidal, with 400,000 Palestinians trapped and unable to evacuate. Israeli military claims strikes target Hamas, but civilian areas are heavily impacted, causing severe humanitarian distress. Noah Prescott 13/10/2024 3:30 pm
The Israeli army continues to strike locations across Lebanon, including Nabatieh, amid threats from Prime Minister Netanyahu of severe destruction. Over a year of conflict with Hezbollah has resulted in at least 2,255 Lebanese deaths, over 10,000 injuries, and 1.2 million displaced. Israeli attacks have devastated villages like Yaroun and Maroun al-Ras. The conflict began on October 8, 2023, with Hezbollah’s attacks in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. Israel has launched significantly more attacks on Lebanon than vice versa. Penelope Kingsley 13/10/2024 12:00 pm
Indian politician Baba Siddique, 66, was shot dead in Mumbai near his son’s office. Two suspects have been arrested, with a third being sought. Siddique, a former Maharashtra minister, recently joined the National Congress Party. The shooting occurred despite heightened security for a Hindu festival. Opposition parties criticized the government for security lapses. The suspects reportedly belong to a gang led by jailed criminal Lawrence Bishnoi. Siddique’s security had been upgraded weeks earlier due to death threats. The state government has promised a thorough investigation. Ava Sinclair 13/10/2024 12:00 pm
Forty countries condemned Israeli attacks on UNIFIL peacekeepers in Lebanon, calling for an investigation. Five peacekeepers were wounded amid escalating violence after Israel’s invasion against Hezbollah. The countries emphasized UNIFIL’s crucial role and urged conflict parties to ensure peacekeepers’ safety. Spain, France, and Italy labeled the attacks “unjustifiable,” while U.S. President Biden urged Israel to cease targeting the U.N. Ava Sinclair 13/10/2024 12:00 pm
Spanish scientists have used DNA analysis to suggest that 15th-century explorer Christopher Columbus was a Sephardic Jew from Western Europe. This conclusion challenges the traditional belief that Columbus was from Genoa, Italy, and addresses various theories about his origins. A 22-year investigation led by forensic expert Miguel Lorente analyzed remains in Seville Cathedral, confirmed to be Columbus’s, and found traits compatible with Jewish origin. The findings were announced in a documentary on Spain’s TVE. Columbus’s nationality remains debated due to complex data. Ava Sinclair 13/10/2024 12:00 pm
