President Joe Biden urged Israel to stop targeting U.N. peacekeepers after explosions near the U.N. Interim Force in Lebanon injured two peacekeepers. Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, condemned the attacks as criminal and plans to urge the U.N. Security Council for a cease-fire. Meanwhile, the Israel-Gaza conflict continues, with tensions affecting the broader Middle East. The conflict escalated after Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel, leading to a significant regional displacement and the death of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in July 2024. Penelope Kingsley 12/10/2024 11:30 am
Hezbollah launched retaliatory attacks on Israeli military positions, targeting troop gatherings with missiles and artillery. The Israeli army confirmed over a dozen soldiers were killed in Southern Lebanon. Hezbollah claims high-level coordination in its operations and has thwarted Israeli infiltration attempts. The group warns settlers to avoid military gatherings, as their bases are targets. Hezbollah’s strikes on Golan Heights, Haifa, and Kiryat Shmona respond to Israeli attacks on Lebanese civilians and support Palestinians. Lebanon reports over 2,141 deaths and mass civilian displacement due to Israeli air raids. Penelope Kingsley 12/10/2024 8:00 am
Protests over the cost of living in Martinique forced the closure of its international airport after demonstrators stormed the runway. Inbound flights were redirected to Guadeloupe. A curfew and bans on public gatherings have been imposed amid violent protests demanding lower food prices. One protester was shot dead, and 26 police officers were injured. The unrest, which began in September, has led to looting and arson. The French government deployed riot police, and an investigation is underway into the protester’s death. Ava Sinclair 12/10/2024 8:00 am
A series of strong solar storms has created vibrant auroras visible as far south as North Texas. Despite the stunning displays, there have been no reported disruptions to power or communications. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued a severe geomagnetic storm alert due to a recent solar outburst. These storms increase aurora visibility and can disrupt power and radio signals. Solar storms occur when the sun emits energy bursts, known as coronal mass ejections, which interact with Earth’s atmosphere, producing colorful lights. NOAA forecasts continued activity, but aurora visibility is unlikely further south. Ava Sinclair 12/10/2024 8:00 am
The Biden administration imposed new sanctions on Iran’s petroleum industry following Tehran’s missile attack on Israel. The Treasury Department targeted entities and vessels involved in illicit Iranian petroleum exports, designating them as “blocked property.” The State Department also sanctioned companies and vessels in the Iranian petroleum trade. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan stated these measures aim to cut off financial resources supporting Iran’s missile programs and terrorist groups. The announcement, coordinated with U.S. allies, comes amid heightened Middle East tensions a year after the Israel-Hamas war began. Penelope Kingsley 12/10/2024 8:00 am
Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian in Turkmenistan to discuss Middle East tensions amid escalating Israel-Iran conflicts. They plan to finalize a strategic partnership at the BRICS summit in Russia. Both leaders emphasized strong bilateral relations, with Putin highlighting their close international positions. Pezeshkian criticized Israel’s actions in Lebanon, accusing the US and Europe of support. Russia and Iran’s ties have strengthened since the Ukraine invasion, despite US accusations of Iran supplying weapons to Russia, which Tehran denies. Penelope Kingsley 12/10/2024 4:30 am
A Navy investigation into the drowning deaths of two SEALs off Somalia revealed preventable causes linked to gear overload and flotation gear neglect. The report also highlighted ongoing issues within the SEAL community, including performance-enhancing drug use and a culture of exceptionalism. An anonymous tip alleged drug use and misconduct among SEALs, but these were not deemed root causes of the incident. The report noted that the SEALs, Christopher Chambers and Nathan Gage Ingram, may have underestimated their flotation capabilities, leading to their deaths. Penelope Kingsley 12/10/2024 1:00 am
US President Joe Biden urged Israel to cease firing at UN peacekeepers amid its conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon, following incidents injuring UN soldiers. The IDF admitted responsibility for one incident and promised an investigation. France, Italy, and Spain condemned Israel’s actions. Sri Lanka and UN peacekeeping officials criticized the attacks. Meanwhile, Israel and Hezbollah continued exchanging fire, with casualties reported on both sides, including Lebanese civilians and soldiers. Lebanese PM Najib Mikati reported 22 civilian deaths and 117 injuries from Israeli airstrikes in Beirut. Noah Prescott 12/10/2024 1:00 am
A US-made munition was used in a Beirut strike that killed 22 and wounded 117, according to The Guardian’s analysis of shrapnel. The attack targeted Hezbollah’s Wafiq Safa but he survived. The strike hit a densely populated area, exacerbating casualties as the building housed displaced individuals. The Guardian identified remnants of a US-manufactured JDAM, verified by Human Rights Watch. JDAMs convert bombs into GPS-guided munitions, posing significant risks in populated areas. US weapons, including JDAMs, are crucial in Israel’s conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. Penelope Kingsley 12/10/2024 1:00 am
Protests over high living costs in Martinique led to the temporary closure of its airport after demonstrators overran the tarmac. Flights were disrupted, stranding hundreds of passengers. French authorities regained control, with reinforcements sent to restore order. Protests have been ongoing since Monday, turning violent with one death and injuries to officers. Demonstrators clashed with police, who used tear gas. Rumors of incoming French police fueled the airport invasion. Three planes were diverted, and 500 passengers were stranded. Ava Sinclair 12/10/2024 1:00 am
