Israel targets Hamas compound at Gaza school, dozens reportedly killed
Israel said its military struck a school that contained a Hamas compound on Thursday, June 6. Israel has long accused Hamas of using civilian facilities like schools and hospitals as hideouts and weapon storage. Reports indicate the Israeli airstrike was on a UNRWA school in the Nuseirat refugee camp.
Israeli officials said the early morning airstrike killed fighters who were involved in Hamas’ terror attack on Oct. 7.
The Hamas-run media rejected those claims, saying the strike by Israeli fighter jets killed at least 30 people, including women and children who were seeking shelter inside the United Nations school in central Gaza.
The Israeli military said it took steps to reduce the risk of harming civilians before launching the attack.
The strike comes a day after the Israeli military announced a new ground and air offensive in central Gaza, where it says Hamas militants have regrouped.
Getty Images
Despite the reports from local officials, Israel said it was not aware of any civilians deaths at the school.
This comes after Straight Arrow News recently reported the United Nations had revised its estimates on the number of Palestinian women and children killed in the war. The world agency said the actual death toll was half of what had been reported by the Hamas-run Ministry of Health in Gaza.
The U.N. also suggested the numbers could further decrease as they continue to investigate the death count.
7.4 magnitude earthquake rocks Taiwan, several dead
Several people are dead in the strongest earthquake to hit Taiwan in 25 years, and the future of Disney will be decided today in a boardroom vote. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Wednesday, April 3, 2024.
Several dead after major earthquake rocks Taiwan
At least nine people have died and more than 800 are injured following the largest earthquake to strike Taiwan in 25 years, occurring Wednesday, April 3. The aftermath saw buildings tilting precariously, with rescuers employing ladders to reach those trapped inside. The event brought traffic to a halt and led to the suspension of train services throughout the island.
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Taiwan’s authorities recorded the earthquake at a magnitude of 7.2, whereas the U.S. Geological Survey reported it as 7.4. The earthquake hit around 8 a.m. local time, prompting tsunami warnings for southern Japan and the Philippines, which were later lifted.
Biden ‘outraged’ over Israeli airstrike that killed aid workers in Gaza
President Joe Biden said he was “outraged and heartbroken” by the deaths of seven World Central Kitchen aid workers in Gaza, caused by Israeli airstrikes on Monday, April 1. This marks his most forceful condemnation of Israel amid the ongoing conflict with Hamas.
Biden criticized Israel for not doing enough to safeguard humanitarian workers in the region. Following the incident, World Central Kitchen has temporarily halted its operations in Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged that the strikes inadvertently harmed civilians and committed to a prompt investigation into the airstrikes targeting the vehicles of aid workers.
Trump, Biden win primaries but voters express concern
In the latest round of primaries, President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump, who have secured their party’s nominations, continued to gather delegates. Despite the expected victories in Connecticut, New York, Rhode Island and Wisconsin, both encountered considerable dissent within their ranks.
Among Democrats, a significant segment of voters opted for “Uncommitted,” with protest votes hitting as high as 15 percent in Rhode Island.
On the Republican front, Nikki Haley, who withdrew from the race last month, still received support, securing at least 10 percent of the vote in all four states.
Results of Disney boardroom vote to be announced
The outcome of a prolonged and intense boardroom dispute concerning Disney’s future direction will be disclosed today during its annual shareholder meeting, marking the culmination of months of internal conflict.
In a significant moment of contention within the boardroom, stakeholders have been divided over maintaining the company’s current strategic path. Nelson Peltz has been vocal in his criticism, asserting that Disney has diverged from its core values, leading to a significant depreciation in its market value.
Peltz’s primary complaints center around what he perceives as mismanagement and strategic errors by the current leadership, as he seeks to convince shareholders of the need for a new direction.
According to Reuters’ latest report this morning, Disney is anticipated to have garnered sufficient support from its shareholders to maintain its course, with official confirmation expected later today.
Estate of George Carlin settles with podcast over AI-generated special
The estate of the late comedian George Carlin has settled a lawsuit with the “Dudesy” podcast, which had allegedly used an AI-generated version of Carlin to comment on current events in an audio special earlier this year.
Filed in January, the lawsuit accused the podcast of infringing on the copyrights and publicity rights associated with Carlin’s name, image, and likeness. Carlin, who passed away in 2008, remains a significant figure in comedy.
Following the lawsuit, the podcast’s creators removed the special from their YouTube channel and, as part of the settlement, agreed not to re-upload the video or use Carlin’s image on any platform.
Carlin’s daughter expressed her satisfaction with the swift resolution of the case and emphasized its importance as a cautionary tale regarding the use of AI and the necessity for proper safeguards.
Tropicana Las Vegas closes its doors after 67 years
Throughout its history, the Tropicana has played host to numerous legendary figures, including the Rat Pack, and was the backdrop for the debuts of magicians Siegfried and Roy. It was also featured in the 1971 James Bond film “Diamonds Are Forever,” starring Sean Connery.
The Tropicana expressed its gratitude to its employees, guests, and the city of Las Vegas for “67 years of unforgettable memories and unwavering support” in a farewell post on its official Instagram account.
World Central Kitchen pauses aid operations in Gaza after 7 members killed
World Central Kitchen is suspending its aid operations in Gaza after several volunteers are killed. And, Florida’s Supreme Court makes a decision on the state’s abortion ban while giving voters a say in November. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Tuesday, April 2, 2024.
World Central Kitchen pauses operations in Gaza after 7 members killed
The organization reported its team was traveling in a “deconflicted zone” in two armored vehicles marked with the WCK logo when the convoy was struck while leaving a warehouse in central Gaza. The nonprofit said this occurred despite coordinating its movements with the Israeli army.
World Central Kitchen is devastated to confirm seven members of our team have been killed in an IDF strike in Gaza. Read our full statement on the loss of our team members here: https://t.co/gsijamzfMUpic.twitter.com/PtQCxX5XrW
Footage from the scene shows the damaged vehicles with World Central Kitchen branding. The organization said those killed include a dual citizen of the U.S. and Canada, along with team members from Australia, Poland, the United Kingdom, and Palestine.
Celebrity chef Jose Andres, the founder of World Central Kitchen, expressed his heartbreak on X, referring to the victims as “angels” and urging Israel to “stop the indiscriminate killing” and the use of “food as a weapon.”
In response, the Israeli military announced it is “conducting a thorough review at the highest level to understand the circumstances of this tragic incident.” The military emphasized its extensive efforts to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid and its close cooperation with World Central Kitchen in supporting the people of Gaza.
Iran blames Israel for deadly attack on consulate in Syria
Iran reported that an Israeli airstrike on its consulate in Syria on Monday, April 1, resulted in the deaths of two generals and five officers. Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group in Lebanon, stated that one of its members was also killed in the attack in Damascus, accusing Israel of attempting to escalate the conflict in Gaza.
Since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war, there has been increased fighting between Israel and Iran-backed militant groups in Gaza and the surrounding areas.
The dimensions of this hateful attack are being investigated and the responsibility for its consequences lies with the aggressor Zionist regime.
— Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran (@Iran_GOV) April 2, 2024
Israeli officials have not commented on the attack in Syria. However, The New York Times has cited four Israeli officials confirming Israel’s involvement in the strike.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, in a social media post, held the U.S. accountable as an ally of Israel, suggesting America bears responsibility. A spokesman for the National Security Council stated that the U.S. was not involved in the attack and was unaware of it beforehand.
Trump posts $175 million bond in civil fraud case
Former President Donald Trump has posted a $175 million bond in a New York civil fraud case, ending a six-week effort to prevent seizure of his assets. Trump’s legal team considers the bond payment a move towards appealing and reversing what they call an unfair judgment, stating the payment was made “as promised.”
A New York judge ruled last year that Trump and his company violated state fraud laws by significantly overstating his wealth in financial statements to banks, with exaggerations up to $3.6 billion. Trump has denied any wrongdoing and vowed to appeal the decision, calling the case a politically motivated “witch hunt.”
Florida upholds 15-week abortion ban; voters decide issue in November
The Florida Supreme Court on Monday, April 1, made two pivotal decisions concerning the state’s abortion laws. The court upheld a 2022 law banning abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy which paves the way for an even stricter ban after six weeks to be implemented. Signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis in 2023, the six-week ban is among the nation’s most restrictive and was to go into effect one month after the state’s high court affirmed the 15-week ban.
BREAKING: Today, the Florida Supreme Court ruled that Florida’s proposed amendment to limit government interference with abortion meets the requirements for placement on the November 2024 ballot. pic.twitter.com/AXbbfogpFl
The court also approved a ballot measure to potentially enshrine abortion rights in the state constitution, granting Florida voters the opportunity to directly influence the law this November.
The ballot proposal aims to forbid laws that “prohibit, penalize, delay, or restrict abortion when necessary to protect the patient’s health.” For constitutional amendments to be ratified in Florida, they must receive at least 60% of the vote.
Google agrees to delete billions of browsing data records
Google has agreed to delete billions of users’ browsing history records as part of a lawsuit alleging the tech giant tracked people without their consent. The lawsuit accused Google of gathering data from users who thought they were browsing the internet privately in the company’s “Incognito” mode.
Google will destroy the private browsing history of millions of people who used "incognito" mode in its Chrome browser as a part of a settlement filed to federal court on Monday in a case over the company's secret tracking of web activity.https://t.co/bDGvVpk3R4
Google settled the lawsuit in December and the terms were disclosed for the first time in a filing on Monday, April 1. As part of the settlement, Google will also update its disclosures to inform users about the data it collects in private browsing mode.
Google maintains it does not associate data with users in Incognito mode. No users will receive damages from this settlement, but they retain the right to sue individually for damages.
— NCAA Women's Final Four (@WFinalFour) April 2, 2024
The Huskies will face Caitlin Clark and Iowa, after the Hawkeyes defeated defending national champion LSU 94-87. Clark tied a women’s NCAA record with nine 3-pointers in the win.
NC State is heading to its first Final Four since 1998 after beating Texas 76-66 on Sunday. The Wolfpack will play unbeaten South Carolina, which won 70-58 against Oregon State on Sunday.
US military using AI to find air strike targets in the Middle East
Artificial intelligence is quickly being integrated into various aspects of life, from navigation apps to word processing programs. Now, its application has extended to U.S. military strategies.
According to Bloomberg, the U.S. military used AI to identify targets for air strikes in the Middle East in early February, marking a significant use of technology in combat.
The air strikes, which targeted facilities in Iraq and Syria with the help of AI, were part of a larger operation against Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and other Iranian-backed militias. Over 85 strikes were reported in a single day.
The technology, developed under Project Maven — a collaboration between Google and the Pentagon — employs machine learning algorithms to enhance intelligence gathering from drones and satellite imagery. This tech has been tested over the past year to identify potential targets in the Middle East.
Schuyler Moore, the chief technology officer at U.S. Central Command, emphasized the importance of scenario-specific data in the effectiveness of AI systems. Moore highlighted that soldiers consistently review and verify AI-recommended targets, ensuring decisions are made with precision.
The use of computer vision algorithms has significantly improved the identification of enemy locations and assets, demonstrating the efficiency and strategic advantage AI provides in military operations.
Moore also noted that the shift towards software-centric warfighting necessitates a reevaluation of policy, indicating that the integration of AI in military operations is still in its early stages.
As the U.S. military faces challenges in meeting recruiting numbers, the increased use of AI could play a crucial role in filling this gap. Additionally, the development of advanced weapons systems is increasingly incorporating AI, pointing to a future where artificial intelligence potentially becomes a cornerstone of military strategy.
Pakistan strikes back at Iran; US targets Houthi missiles: The Morning Rundown, Jan. 18, 2024
Developing stories out of the Middle East as Pakistan fires back at Iran and the U.S. launches additional strikes at Houthi targets. And the latest Apple Watches will be back on sale on Thursday, Jan. 18, but with some changes. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024.
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Pakistan strikes Iran; U.S. targets Houthi missiles
There are new developments out of the Middle East as the possibility of a wider war in the region looms. Pakistan said it has carried out strikes targeting terrorists inside Iran.
The sole objective of today’s act was in pursuit of Pakistan’s own security and national interest, which is paramount and cannot be compromised.
Pakistan’s foreign affairs ministry
The strikes come after an Iranian missile attack on Tuesday, Jan. 16, that Pakistani officials said killed two children and was unprovoked. Pakistan said its strikes on Iran were “highly coordinated and specifically targeted precision strikes against terrorist hideouts.”
An Iranian official said the strikes killed at least nine people, including four children. Pakistan’s foreign affairs ministry released a statement that said Pakistan’s national security is its priority.
“Pakistan fully respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” the statement said. “The sole objective of today’s act was in pursuit of Pakistan’s own security and national interest, which is paramount and cannot be compromised.”
Meanwhile, the United States launched another round of airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen on Wednesday night, Jan. 17. U.S. Central Command said U.S. forces targeted 14 Iran-backed Houthi missiles that were loaded to be fired from the Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen. The U.S. said the missiles presented an imminent threat to merchant vessels and Navy ships in the region.
On Wednesday, Jan. 17, the U.S. announced it was redesignating the Houthis as global terrorists for the group’s continued attacks against commercial ships in the Red Sea. The move subjects the Houthis to economic sanctions aimed to cut off funding to the militant group.
Speaker Johnson pushes the president for border reform in meeting on Ukraine aid
Following a meeting at the White House on Wednesday, Jan. 17, House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., told reporters he pressed President Biden on immigration reform, calling the southern border a “national security and humanitarian catastrophe.” Biden called congressional leaders pushing for more aid to Ukraine, aid that has been blocked by House Republicans for months demanding stricter border policy as the U.S.-Mexico border has been flooded with a record number of migrants.
According to the Pew Research Center, 10.5 million undocumented immigrants have been living in the U.S. since 2021. While Republicans have drawn a proverbial line in the sand demanding the border be addressed in any Ukraine-Israel funding package, the meeting may have marked a path forward for negotiations that have been at a stalemate in Congress.
Biden has requested $61.4 billion in additional funding for Ukraine, which includes additional funding for Israel. Still, it hinges on what border policy changes both sides can agree upon.
“We understand that there is concern about the safety, security, sovereignty of Ukraine,” Speaker Johnson said. “But the American people have those same concerns about our own domestic sovereignty and our safety, and our security.”
In talking to reporters following the meeting, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed some hope that talks are moving in the right direction, with both sides having similar goals. But he did note that compromise is the only way anything gets passed.
Texas defies DHS cease-and-desist letter after park takeover
A war of words is brewing between Texas and the Biden administration amid the immigration crisis at the border after the state’s national guard took over a public park along the U.S.-Mexico border last week. The state said the move was to deter migrants from illegally crossing into the area.
The Department of Homeland Security issued a cease-and-desist letter to Texas over the weekend, calling for officials to stop blocking federal border patrol agents from entering Shelby Park in Eagle Pass, by a deadline of Wednesday, Jan. 17.
The department said Texas’ move is obstructing border patrol from apprehending and processing migrants. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton responded Wednesday, Jan. 17, sending a letter to Homeland Security, rejecting its request and saying the state will continue “utilizing its constitutional authority to defend her territory.” DHS has warned Texas it would refer the matter to the Justice Department should the state continue to deny border patrol full access.
Maine judge defers Trump decision until Supreme Court ruling
Maine’s secretary of state barred Trump from the ballot last month, citing his actions around the Jan. 6 capitol riots a week after the Colorado Supreme Court’s similar decision. Trump, the GOP frontrunner for the 2024 presidential election, has appealed the states’ decisions, leaving his name on both ballots for now.
The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear the case out of Colorado, with arguments set for Feb. 8. The Maine judge ordered Maine’s secretary of state to make a new ruling within 30 days of the Supreme Court’s decision.
On Wednesday, Jan. 17, Trump voluntarily attended his defamation trial in New York for a second day, where he sparred with the judge, who threatened to kick him out of court for making comments as his accuser, columnist E. Jean Carroll, was testifying. Trump said he will not be at Thursday’s Jan. 18 court proceedings so he can attend the funeral of his mother-in-law, who passed away last week at the age of 78.
Iowa sues TikTok for misleading parents and exposing children to harmful content
Other states have filed similar lawsuits, though a judge in Indiana threw out the case. TikTok faces many other legal challenges, from inappropriate content to privacy concerns. It is not just TikTok facing backlash and challenges when it comes to protecting children from harmful content on social media; globally, there have been calls for social platforms to protect children.
In a statement regarding the latest lawsuit in Iowa, TikTok said it “has industry leading safeguards in place for young people, including parental controls and time limits for those under 18. We are committed to tackling industry wide challenges and will continue to prioritize community safety.” TikTok’s CEO, along with the other social media CEOs, is set to testify in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee on Jan. 31 discussing online child sexual exploitation.
Apple begins selling watches without blood oxygen feature
The latest versions of the Apple Watch will return to Apple store shelves but with some modifications. Beginning Thursday, Jan. 18, Apple will once again sell its Series 9 and Ultra 2 watches online and at its retail stores, but the watches will be without the blood oxygen feature.
This comes after Apple was banned from using the technology following an intellectual property dispute with the medical device company Masimo. The blood oxygen app will still be on the watches, but Apple said when users tap on it, they will be alerted that the feature is no longer accessible. Apple is still appealing the International Trade Commission’s ruling that found Apple infringed on Masimo’s patents.
The big takeaways from the 3rd Republican primary presidential debate: The Morning Rundown, Nov. 9, 2023
Five Republican candidates took the stage Wednesday night, Nov. 8, making their case to be the next president in the third GOP primary debate. And Hollywood actors reach a tentative deal with the studios to put an end to the nearly four-month strike. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Thursday, Nov. 9.
Recapping 3rd GOP presidential primary debate
For the third time, Republican candidates for the 2024 presidential election faced off in a primary debate; this time, the field was down to five.
We’ve become a party of losers. At the end of the day, there is a cancer in the Republican establishment.
Vivek Ramaswamy
From the stage in Miami on Wednesday night, Nov. 8, the candidates spoke on a variety of issues, from China to funding Israel and Ukraine and their views on abortion. All while sparring with one another and even criticizing the Republican National Committee after the GOP lost key races the night before.
The candidates were also not shy this time to call out the Republican frontrunner, former President Donald Trump, for not showing up to the debate.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (R) said Donald Trump is much different than in 2016.
“He owes it to you to be on this stage and explain why he should get another chance. He should explain why he didn’t have Mexico pay for the border wall. He should explain why he racked up so much debt. He should explain why he didn’t drain the swamp,” DeSantis said. “And he said Republicans were going to get tired of winning. Well, we saw last night, I’m sick of Republicans losing.”
Tech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy aimed his anger at the election results at Ronna McDaniel, the chair of the RNC.
“I think there’s something deeper going on in the Republican party here, and I am upset about what happened last night,” Ramaswamy said. “We’ve become a party of losers. At the end of the day, there is a cancer in the Republican establishment.”
At times throughout the night, Ramaswamy focused on former South Carolina governor and United Nations ambassador Nikki Haley, who was almost at center stage, a reflection of her standings in the polls. While all candidates declared their support for Israel, Ramaswamy took issue with Haley’s foreign policy views.
“Do you want a leader from a different generation who’s going to put this country first,” Ramaswamy said. “Or do you want Dick Cheney in three-inch heels?”
“Yes, I’d first like to say they’re five-inch heels, and I don’t wear them unless you can run in ’em,” Haley said. “The second thing that I will say is I wear heels; they’re not for a fashion statement; they’re for ammunition.”
The candidates were divided when it came to supporting Ukraine in its war with Russia. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie said supporting Ukraine is “not a choice,” saying, “It’s the price we pay for being leaders of the free world.” DeSantis was skeptical of some of the funding sent to Ukraine, saying, “We need the war to end” so the U.S. can focus on border security instead.
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The presidential hopefuls were also asked about the social media app TikTok, owned by the China-based company ByteDance. Christie said he’d ban the app in his first week as president. The issue turned personal when Ramaswamy brought up Haley’s daughter.
“In the last debate, she made fun of me for actually joining TikTok while her own daughter was actually using the app for a long time,” Ramaswamy said. “So you might want to take care of your family first.” “Leave my daughter out of your voice,” Haley said.
“The next generation of Americans are using it, and that’s actually the point,” Ramaswamy said as the audience booed. “You have her supporters propping her up.”
After Ohio residents voted in favor of abortion access Tuesday night, Nov. 8, the GOP candidates were asked about their stance on the issue. South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott said he’d commit to a 15-week national ban. Haley said no Republican president will be able to find the votes to pass any kind of federal abortion ban.
Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump held a rally a half hour away during the debate. A senior Trump adviser said the debate was “a complete waste of time and money.”
Ivanka Trump testifies; Hunter Biden subpoenaed
Based on polling numbers, as of Thursday, Nov. 9, the 2024 presidential election looks like it would be a rematch of 2020 between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump. However, on Wednesday, Nov. 8, the focus was not on them but their family members.
The New York attorney general has accused Trump, his adult sons, and his organization of inflating his net worth on financial statements to banks and insurers in order to gain more favorable loans.
Ivanka told prosecutors she was not privy to her father’s personal financial statements.
When asked specifically by the state lawyer if she had any role in preparing Donald Trump’s statements of financial condition, Ivanka replied, “Not that I’m aware of.”
Following Ivanka’s five-hour testimony, the New York attorney rested her case. The defense is expected to begin theirs on Monday, Nov. 13.
Meanwhile, the House Oversight Committee investigating President Biden and his connection to his family’s foreign business dealings subpoenaed Hunter and James Biden, the president’s son and brother, on Wednesday, Nov. 8, marking the first time that members of the Biden family have been subpoenaed since the impeachment inquiry was opened in September.
A representative for Hunter Biden responded, calling it a “political stunt,” but said, “Hunter is eager to have the opportunity, in a public forum, at the right time, to discuss these matters with the committee.”
US strikes Syria weapons warehouse in response to attacks on troops
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, calling it a self-defense strike, said the weapons facility in Eastern Syria was used by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps along with affiliated groups.
Two F-15 fighter jets dropped bombs on the target on Wednesday, Nov. 8, in what Austin called a “precision self-defense strike,” adding that the safety of American troops is paramount.
“The president has no higher priority than the safety of U.S. personnel, and he directed today’s action to make clear that the United States will defend itself, its personnel, and its interests,” Austin said in a statement.”
Also on Wednesday, the Pentagon confirmed a U.S. military surveillance drone was shot down off the coast of Yemen by Iran-backed Houthi rebels.
Media releases conflicting information on Gaza hospital explosion
Those who are keeping up with news out of the Israel-Hamas war are seeing a number of conflicting reports. Following an explosion at a hospital in Gaza, reports containing contradictory claims and details have been released to the public, creating confusion regarding credible reporting.
With the amount of serious and consequential events happening in the world, the public is relying on the media for information. However, that information is being portrayed differently depending on the news source.
Outlets are reporting different information on which side is to blame, the number of casualties and the validity of hostage videos that are coming out of Gaza.
As people scrambled for answers after the Gaza hospital explosion, the Hamas-controlled Palestinian Health Ministry claimed that Israel struck the hospital, killing hundreds. Israel quickly responded, claiming it was a misfired rocket that was launched by the Islamic jihad.
As time passed, more information and video evidence has come to light. U.S. intelligence has since determined that the damage was not from an Israeli airstrike.
The information that was available was conflicting, and so was the media’s response. For example, the New York Times updated its headline three times, citing “Palestinians.”
The first Times headline called the explosion an “Israeli airstrike.” After Israel denied involvement, the headline changed to “At least 500 dead in strike on Gaza hospital.”
The third update changed to say a “blast at” the hospital, rather than the previous “strike on.”
Initial reports said that the hospital was struck, however, photos, video and satellite imagery show that the blast happened in a courtyard that is part of the hospital site, not in the hospital building itself.
U.S. intelligence agencies said Friday, Oct. 20, that the hospital suffered “light damage.”
An annotated photo from BBC News shows broken windows of standing buildings, a small crater, burned cars and nearby roof damage, all concentrated in the parking lot.
The number of casualties has also not been verified.
Hamas claimed that there were 500 casualties, but then said 471. Since Hamas was the first group to put a number to the tragedy, many media outlets reported it.
Now, U.S. officials say the number of people killed is likely closer to 100, and European officials have placed the number in the dozens. If that is true, the number would be one-tenth of what Palestinian officials said.
Days after the attack, the information and tone of the media’s reporting changed as more people criticized and reflected on the initial coverage.
Reports from the night that the news broke have contradicting information on how many were killed, where the hospital was and who was behind the explosion.
Here’s a look at how different outlets reported the story on the night that the news broke.
MSNBC:
“The Palestinian Health Ministry is saying a hospital in Gaza City in Northern Gaza has taken a direct hit from an Israeli airstrike. They are saying hundreds, at minimum 300, have been killed in this strike.”
ABC:
“Tonight the death toll rising in the devastating strike on a hospital in Gaza City. Palestinian officials saying at least 500 killed in what they claim was an Israeli airstrike.”
PBS:
“Welcome to the NewsHour. It is a horrific night in Gaza where an airstrike hit a hospital, killing hundreds, who hit the hospital is in dispute.”
NBC
“There appears to be several victims being rushed to other hospitals, but if this were to be true, this would be one of the biggest retaliation strikes possibly by the Israelis since that Hamas terrorist attack, and when you’re talking about 500 people you have to wonder how many of those people are innocent civilians if this indeed is the case.”
The response by some of the largest news organizations in the U.S. is receiving sharp criticism from some lawmakers.
“Here’s what I know, what I know is we saw a disgusting display of anti-Israel, anti-Zionism and anti-Semitism from the international media around the world.” Rep. Jared Moskowitz, D-Fla., said. “They immediately took Hamas’s word for it — Hamas, a terrorist organization — who said something and ran with it.
“This shows how dangerous it is to be listening to a terrorist organization when they put numbers, when they put out facts and figures and they put out statements and it’s a lesson for the media and elected officials that this is an active war zone and we have to be careful before we take stuff and weaponize it.”
Israel has not begun its ground operation into Gaza yet. Hamas is holding hundreds hostage, and new developments are coming in consistently.
Russia targets Ukrainian port after pulling out of grain deal: July 18 rundown
A key Ukrainian port city used for grain export was attacked by Russia. And a United plane loses an emergency slide mid-flight. These stories and more highlight the rundown for Tuesday, July 18, 2023.
Russia targets Odesa after suspending grain deal
Russia targeted the Ukrainian port city of Odesa after pulling out of its grain deal with the country. On Tuesday, Russia launched six cruise missiles and 25 exploding drones, all of which were shot down. But the debris and shock waves damaged port facilities and residential buildings. One person was injured.
This incident follows an apparent attack by Ukraine on a bridge in Crimea. Ukraine attempted another drone attack on Crimea on Tuesday, but it was stopped by Russian defense forces.
Western officials denounced Russia’s decision to suspend its grain deal on Monday. The Kremlin said the deal would be suspended until restrictions on Russian exports were lifted.
“Russia’s decision to resume its effective blockade of Ukrainian ports and prevent this grain from getting to markets will harm people all over the world,” said National Security Council Spokesman John Kirby. “Indeed, we are already seeing a spike in global wheat, corn and soybean prices just today as a result of Russia’s suspension. We urge the government of Russia to immediately reverse its decision.”
First pretrial conference in Trump case
The first pretrial conference in the criminal case against former president Donald Trump concerning the mishandling of classified documents begins July 18. U.S. district court judge Aileen Cannon will decide on how classified information will be handled in the case.
The date of the trial could also be announced. While prosecutors have proposed the trial to begin in December, Trump’s lawyers have suggested it be postponed until after the 2024 presidential election since the former president is seeking another run in the White House.
Trump and his aide, Walt Nauta, have pleaded not guilty to an indictment that accused them of storing classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate and trying to hide them from the government.
The summer heat wave had been deadly. There were 12 heat-related deaths in the first week of July in Phoenix and 55 heat-related deaths since the start of the summer. And it’s only getting worse. Temperatures are forecast to be 115 degrees or above through July 23.
Greece wildfires tear through coastal communities
Wildfires in Greece, which are common in the summer, have forced thousands of residents to leave their homes. Two large blazes are tearing through coastal communities and a seaside resort area has been evacuated.
FDA approves RSV drug for infants
The FDA has approved the first long-acting drug to protect infants and toddlers from the respiratory virus known as RSV. The antibody preventive therapy, called Beyfortus, was approved Monday for children up to 2-years-old who are vulnerable to severe RSV.
The drug will reportedly be available in the United States before the upcoming cold season. RSV is the leading cause of hospitalization in infants.
Emergency slide on United plane accidentally deploys
An emergency evacuation slide from a United Airlines plane fell off mid-flight on its way to the Chicago O’hare International Airport. The slide was found in a nearby neighborhood in someone’s backyard. Maintenance workers noticed the slide was missing and reported it to the FAA. The flight had just arrived from switzerland. The FAA is investigating how the emergency landing device was deployed.
Australian man and dog survive 3 months lost at sea
An Australian sailor, Timothy Shaddock, became lost at sea after a storm damaged his boat and wiped out his electronics. Shaddock said he and his dog survived on raw fish and rain water for nearly 100 days. A Mexican fishing boat found Shaddock’s vessel 1,200 miles offshore.
3 soldiers dead in Alaska helicopter collision: April 28 rundown
A collision between two military helicopters in Alaska has left three Army soldiers dead. And Ticketmaster is once again in the hot seat over its latest ticket sale debacle. These stories and more highlight the daily rundown for Friday, April 28, 2023.
3 U.S. soldiers killed after Army helicopters collide
Two U.S. Army helicopters collided and crashed in Alaska, Thursday, April 27, while returning from a training flight. Three soldiers were killed.
Two of the soldiers died at the scene of the crash and a third died on the way to a hospital. Another soldier was injured and is in the hospital.
Each of the helicopters had two people aboard.
The Army said the cause of the crash is under investigation.
This is the second crash involving military helicopters in Alaska this year where two soldiers were injured in a rollover accident.
It also follows the deadly crash of two U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopters which killed nine soldiers in Kentucky last month.
Pence testifies in 2020 presidential election probe
Former Vice President Mike Pence appeared before a grand jury investigating the aftermath of the 2020 election and the actions of then-President Donald Trump and others.
The vice president testified for more than seven hours on Thursday, April 27.
It marks the first time in modern history a vice president has been compelled to testify about the president he served beside.
Russia fires barrage of airstrikes on Ukraine, killing 12
Russia fired a barrage of more than 20 cruise missiles and two explosive drones at Ukraine, killing at least 12 people. The deadliest strike of many launched Friday, April 28, was a missile that tore into an apartment building. Ten people died as a result. The timing of the airstrike came as residents were asleep.
The capital of Kyiv, also came under attack, for the first time in about two months. Officials said there were no casualties there as the country’s air defenses were able to intercept 11 missiles and two drones.
The head of the United Nations says each civilian killed constitutes a potential war crime against the Kremlin.
China flies combat drone around Taiwan
A new type of Chinese combat drone has been spotted flying around Taiwan. It is seen as the latest uptick in military tensions there, according to Taiwan’s Defense Ministry.
In its daily update on Chinese military activities, the Defense Ministry reported 19 aircraft had entered the island’s air defense identification zone. One of which was the aircraft Chinese state media has referred to as the Twin-Tailed Scorpion. It’s capable of high-altitude, long-range missions, and is equipped to carry a heavy-weapons-payload.
The latest tension comes the same month that China retaliated against the island following Taiwan president Tsai ing Wen’s meeting in Los Angeles with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif.
Ticketmaster’s debacle in coronation ticket sales
Ticketmaster is being accused of creating another debacle in ticket sales, issuing tickets for King Charles’ coronation concert.
The ticketing giant was tasked with distributing around 20,000 tickets, which were allocated by geographic spread of the U.K.’s population, instead of on a first come, first served basis.
Angry fans took to social media to complain they had received messages that they’d won tickets only to find that the tickets were all gone when they attempted to claim them.
Ticketmaster ran into trouble in November when the site couldn’t handle the heavy demand for Taylor Swift’s tour. Since then, members of Congress have been looking into whether Ticketmaster is too big of a monopoly in the ticket sale space.
NFL draft enters second round
The Carolina Panthers chose Alabama quarterback Bryce Young with the first overall pick of this year’s NFL draft.
The Houston Texas chose Ohio State quarterback CJ Stroud second overall. Then, surprisingly, traded back up to the third pick, where they went to the other side of the ball and nabbed Alabama linebacker Will Anderson Jr.
US base in Syria attacked by Iranian proxy forces following US airstrikes
Developing: The U.S. and Iranian forces in Syria have traded deadly blasts in the past 24 hours of March 23 – March 24. Iranian militant members launched the latest attack.
A series of seven rockets targeted another U.S. military base on Friday, March 24. This time, in the Syrian province of Deir ez-Zor. This attack is in retaliation to the U.S. launching airstrikes on Iranian forces in southeast Syria. The U.S. initiated the airstrikes after an Iranian drone struck a U.S. base in Al-Hasakah in northeast Syria which killed an American contractor and injured six other Americans stationed at the base.
The U.S. airstrikes on the Iranian militants reportedly killed fighters on the ground in the Iranian-linked areas. Iran’s return fire did not result in any casualties, according to the White House. White House officials called the Iranians’ latest attack “totally ineffective.”
U.S. defense officials said that a radar meant to detect incoming threats at the U.S. military base was down for maintenance at the time of the initial strike. It is unclear whether that vulnerability played a role in the drone reaching a populated area on the base.
