The first shipment of humanitarian aid made its way across the United States’ newly built pier in Gaza, and at least four people are killed after severe storms hit the Houston area. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Friday, May 17, 2024.
Humanitarian aid begins entering Gaza via US-built pier
Humanitarian aid has started flowing into Gaza via a newly completed floating pier constructed by the U.S. The first trucks loaded with aid traversed the pier Friday morning, without any U.S. troops landing in Gaza for the operation.
The initial aid shipment includes food bars for 11,000 individuals, therapeutic foods for over 7,000 malnourished children and hygiene kits for 30,000 people, aimed at assisting the 2.2 million residents of Gaza.
Also on Friday, Israel presented its defense at the United Nations’ International Court of Justice in the Netherlands, requesting the dismissal of South Africa’s plea for a cease-fire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. South Africa has leveled accusations of genocide against Israel for its actions against Hamas, which Israel has dismissed as unfounded and an insult to the gravity of genocide charges.
This marks the third hearing at the World Court since South Africa initiated its case in December.
In the U.S., the House passed a bill on Thursday, May 16, that would mandate President Joe Biden to maintain arms shipments to Israel. The bill, supported by 16 Democrats alongside Republicans, is unlikely to progress in the Senate, and the president has indicated he would veto it.
French police shoot and kill suspect in synagogue fire
French police fatally shot a man Friday morning who was suspected of setting a synagogue on fire in Rouen, about 80 miles northwest of Paris. The man, armed with a knife and an iron bar, attacked officers responding to the synagogue blaze. An officer fired at the assailant, resulting in his death. The fire was subsequently brought under control.
France’s Interior Minister, Gérald Darmanin, praised the police for their quick action and bravery. The Mayor of Rouen expressed that the city is deeply affected and in shock.
While the motive of the suspect remains unknown, the incident occurs amidst an increase in antisemitic incidents in France since the beginning of the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Severe storms in Houston kill four, knock out power for nearly 800,000 homes
Severe storms hit Houston on Thursday, May 16, resulting in at least four deaths, shattered windows in tall buildings and power outages affecting around 800,000 homes, leaving much of the city dark.
Houston’s fire chief attributed two deaths to fallen trees. Many residents are still without power this morning.
Mayor John Whitmire has advised citizens to stay inside and refrain from traveling due to dangerous conditions, as continuous rain causes flooding and strong winds damage the downtown area.
Whitmire said that city departments and first responders are actively addressing the situation, including removing live wires that blocked major roads Friday, May 17.
The Houston Independent School District has shut down all 274 of its schools for the day.
As the city begins to recover, crews are working to remove fallen power lines and debris. The National Weather Service has issued flood warnings for parts of southern Texas and expects additional heavy rainfall.
Trump to attend son’s graduation today; Cohen to return to stand Monday
The criminal trial of fomer President Donald Trump in New York will not see any developments Friday, May 17, as the former president is attending his son Barron’s high school graduation. The judge has permitted a recess for Trump to be present at the ceremony at Oxbridge Academy in West Palm Beach, Florida.
Following the graduation, Trump is scheduled to travel to Minnesota for a Republican fundraising event. He is expected to return to the Manhattan courtroom on Monday, May 20, where his former lawyer Michael Cohen will continue his testimony under cross-examination by Trump’s legal team.
In Thursday’s five-hour session, Trump’s lawyer accused Cohen of lying to the jury, specifically about a phone call Cohen claimed to have had with Trump in 2016. The lawyer suggested that Cohen actually spoke to Trump’s bodyguard regarding a prank call incident.
Cohen maintains his account is truthful.
Looking ahead, prosecutors may conclude their case on Monday, May 20, after which the defense will proceed. It remains uncertain whether Trump’s legal team will summon any witnesses, including Trump himself, to testify.
General Motors, LG reach settlement with Chevy Bolt owners over batteries
General Motors and LG have settled with Chevy Bolt EV owners concerning faulty batteries, establishing a $150 million relief fund. Owners who have had a battery replacement or updated their software may be eligible for up to $1,400 in compensation.
GM introduced the Chevy Bolt in 2015, featuring batteries supplied by LG. In 2021, GM recalled the vehicles due to fire risks associated with the batteries. Production of the Chevy Bolt ceased last year as GM transitioned to developing new electric vehicles.
McDonald’s introducing Grandma McFlurry as company looks to improve sales
McDonald’s is introducing a new menu item, the Grandma McFlurry, in an effort to attract customers amid concerns about recent price increases. This limited edition dessert features syrup, vanilla ice cream and candy pieces, reminiscent of treats one might find in a grandmother’s purse.
The release highlights the current cultural impact of grandmothers, nodding to the “grandma-core” trend on social media where users embrace styles and activities typically linked to grandmothers.
Additionally, McDonald’s plans to launch a $5 value meal aimed at boosting restaurant traffic, following reports earlier in the week.