Israel struck Houthi targets in Yemen after a ballistic missile hit Tel Aviv’s airport, marking the first Israeli strikes in Yemen in months. Prime Minister Netanyahu had vowed retaliation, promising a powerful response. The missile attack was the first successful strike on Israel’s international airport by the Houthis, who threatened further attacks. Netanyahu emphasized ongoing actions against the group, with US coordination. Despite previous strikes, Houthi attacks on Israel and US ships continue. Ava Sinclair 06/05/2025 4:30 am
All 133 cardinals eligible to elect a new pope have arrived in Vatican City for the conclave starting Wednesday. The successor to Pope Francis, who died last month, will be chosen by cardinals under 80. The conclave may last several days, requiring a two-thirds majority vote. Cardinals are divided between continuing Francis’ reforms and returning to traditional roots. Discussions have focused on Church divisions and the desired qualities of a new pope. Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle are potential front-runners, but many cardinals remain undecided. Penelope Kingsley 06/05/2025 1:00 am
Israel’s military conducted airstrikes on Houthi rebels in Yemen’s Hodeida province, killing at least one and wounding 35, following a missile attack on Israel’s main airport. The strikes targeted Hodeida port and a cement factory in Bajil. Over 20 Israeli fighter planes participated, dropping more than 50 munitions. Explosions, flames, and smoke were reported, with ambulances responding to the scene. The Houthi health ministry confirmed casualties and ongoing rescue efforts. Noah Prescott 06/05/2025 1:00 am
The Washington Post won two Pulitzer Prizes, including for breaking-news coverage of an attempted assassination of Donald Trump. Ann Telnaes received her second Pulitzer for illustrated reporting. ProPublica earned the public service prize for reporting on abortion law impacts. The New York Times won four awards, including for a series on Baltimore’s fentanyl crisis with the Baltimore Banner. The New Yorker, Wall Street Journal, and Reuters also received awards. A special citation was posthumously awarded to Chuck Stone for his pioneering work as a Black columnist. Noah Prescott 06/05/2025 1:00 am
Sheikh Muafak Tarif, the Druze spiritual leader in Israel, warned that the massacre of Druze civilians in Syria should alert Israel to the growing threat of extremist groups near its border. Speaking at a conference, he highlighted the failure of international support for Syrian Druze and emphasized Israel’s commitment to their safety. Tarif urged Israel to act, noting the proximity of extremist groups and the broader threat they pose, especially after recent tensions with Hezbollah. He called for a political solution to protect Druze communities in Syria. Noah Prescott 06/05/2025 1:00 am
The New York Times won four Pulitzer Prizes for reporting on Sudan’s civil war, U.S. failures in Afghanistan, and photos of the attempted assassination of Donald Trump. They also collaborated with The Baltimore Banner on an opioid crisis investigation. The New Yorker received three awards, including for its podcast “In The Dark.” ProPublica won the public service award for exposing the impact of state abortion bans. The Washington Post staff won for breaking news on Trump’s assassination attempt, and Ann Telnaes was honored for her illustrated commentary. Noah Prescott 05/05/2025 9:30 pm
On Monday, Britain commemorated the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, honoring World War II veterans. A 100-year-old RAF veteran, Alan Kennett, received a salute from Garrison Sgt. Major Andrew Stokes, with King Charles III in attendance. The event featured a procession of 1,300 British armed forces members, joined by Ukrainian and NATO troops. Actor Timothy Spall recited Winston Churchill’s 1945 victory speech. This year’s observance is significant as it may be the last major event with many WWII veterans present. Penelope Kingsley 05/05/2025 9:30 pm
As cardinal electors gather in the Sistine Chapel to select the next pope, the College of Cardinals reflects the Catholic Church’s shifting global demographics. Pope Francis, during his 12-year pontificate, appointed 163 cardinals from nearly 80 countries, diversifying the church’s leadership beyond Europe. This includes nations like Haiti, Myanmar, and Bangladesh, which had never had cardinals before. Currently, 135 cardinal electors will vote, with European representation dropping to 39%. This marks a significant shift from previous conclaves where Europeans were the majority. Ava Sinclair 05/05/2025 6:00 pm
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy stated Ukraine cannot ensure the safety of foreign officials attending Russia’s Victory Day parade, sparking tensions with Slovakia. Slovak PM Robert Fico criticized Zelenskyy’s warning, asserting Russia is responsible for attendees’ safety. Fico and Serbian President Vučić, the only European leaders planning to attend, faced EU criticism. Vučić’s attendance is uncertain due to health issues, and Fico’s participation is also unclear. The EU warned Vučić that attending could harm Serbia’s EU accession process. Penelope Kingsley 05/05/2025 6:00 pm
Israel’s security cabinet voted to expand military operations in Gaza and establish a new aid delivery framework. The military plans to mobilize reservists, displace Palestinians to southern Gaza, and conduct strikes against Hamas. Over 2,400 Palestinians have died since March, with more than 52,000 killed since the war began. The expansion aims to allow for a potential ceasefire before President Trump’s regional visit. Aid delivery discussions caused cabinet tensions, with some opposing resumption despite international obligations. Israel’s blockade aims to pressure Hamas for hostage release. Penelope Kingsley 05/05/2025 6:00 pm