Three-quarters of Americans fear Israel-Hamas war may lead to terror attacks in US
As Israel continues its fight against the terrorist group Hamas, Americans are becoming increasingly concerned for their safety at home. International protests and riots, as well as increased attention on terror attacks and border security, have three out of every four Americans worried about the threat of an attack on U.S. soil.
A NewsNation poll shows that more than 75% of respondents are “somewhat” or “very” concerned that the conflict will result in terror attacks in the U.S.
At the same time, American Muslims fear a wave of hate crimes and discrimination may come as a result of the war in the Middle East.
Authorities in Illinois say the attack on Israel motivated a man to murder a 6-year-old Muslim boy, Wadea Al-Fayoume, stabbing him 26 times. The man that authorities said is responsible, Joseph Czuba, 71, a U.S. Air Force veteran, made his first court appearance on Monday, Oct. 30. Czuba pleaded not guilty.
“I also mean including those who are Muslim, those who are Palestinian, and those who come from an Arab community,” Jaber said.
Other takeaways from the recent NewsNation poll:
When asked where sympathies lie more, with the Israelis or Palestinians:
49% of Americans said with Israel.
10% of Americans said with Palestine.
26% of Americans said equal between the two.
When asked, 82% of Americans said it’s “somewhat” or “very” important to protect Israel as it relates to U.S. foreign policy.
Congress is currently looking at aid to Israel but is divided on how to do it. The House wants to send $14 billion to Israel as a standalone bill, using funds earmarked for the IRS to do so. The Democrat-controlled Senate is working on a $106 billion security supplemental package that would include aid to Israel, Ukraine, and money for U.S. border security.
House Republicans propose $14.3 billion in aid to Israel, cut IRS funding: The Morning Rundown, Oct. 31, 2023
House Republicans unveil their plans to send aid to Israel with a bill cutting funding for the IRS. And have you purchased your Halloween candy yet? You might have some sticker shock when you do. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023.
House GOP unveils $14.3 billion Israel aid bill; cuts IRS funding
Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, which focused on climate change, health care costs and, taxes, allotted $80 billion in funding for the IRS, for the agency to hire thousands of agents, improve taxpayer services and target wealthy tax evaders.
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In an interview with Fox News on Monday, Oct. 30, Johnson defended the GOP’s bill, saying he knows it will be unpopular with Democrats in the Senate and plans to speak with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.
“I understand their priority is to bulk up the IRS. But I think if you put this to the American people and they weigh the two needs, I think they’re going to say standing with Israel and protecting the innocent over there is in our national interest and is a more immediate need than IRS agents,” Johnson said.
Johnson has said he would want aid for Israel and Ukraine to be handled separately.
The House Rules Committee is expected to consider the Republican’s Israel funding bill on Wednesday, Nov. 1. If it passes the House, it would most likely be rejected by the Democratic-controlled Senate and White House.
In a statement, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre called the bill a “non-starter.”
Netanyahu rejects calls for ceasefire; Israel frees hostage
Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, said he is rejecting calls for a ceasefire in its ongoing war with Hamas. At a news conference in Tel Aviv on Monday, Oct. 30, Netanyahu said, “Israel will fight until this battle is won…The future of our civilization is at stake.”
Earlier in the day, the Israeli army said during a ground raid in Gaza, it had freed one of the more than 230 hostages taken by Hamas in the deadly terror attacks more than three weeks ago.
Officials said the Israeli soldier was found to be in good condition, and she was reunited with her family. Netanyahu said the soldier’s release a turning point in the war and called for the immediate release of all hostages.
Bankman-Fried is accused of defrauding FTX customers and investors of billions of dollars. In one instance, the prosecution brought up statements he made on social media, promising that customers’ assets would be safe.
Bankman-Fried responded multiple times throughout the questioning with a one-word answer of “yep” or “no.”
He has pleaded not guilty to all fraud and conspiracy charges. If convicted, Bankman-Fried could face decades in prison. The judge in the case has told jurors the trial might wrap up this week.
FDA warns certain over-the-counter eye drops may be contaminated
The Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers to stop using certain over-the-counter eye drops that could cause eye infections. The warning covers 27 eye drop products and includes some marketed under store brands like CVS Health, Rite Aid, Target’s Up and Up and Walmart’s Equate, in addition to drops from Rugby and Velocity Pharma brands.
The FDA advised manufacturers to recall the products on Oct. 25 after investigators found “unsanitary conditions” and harmful bacteria in the facility that manufactures the eye drops.
Cost of Halloween candy rises amid drought conditions
Tonight, Tuesday, Oct. 31, trick-or-treaters will be heading to house after house for some candy and chocolate, free of charge. But those same treats are costing shoppers much more at the grocery store this year.
According to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, candy prices are up 7.5% compared to last year. Cocoa prices are trading at a 44-year-high, and global sugar prices are at 12-year highs.
Mexico saw its sugar production fall more than 15% this year due to drought.
Shoppers are expected to spend $3.6 billion on Halloween candy this year, up 16% from last year, per the National Retail Federation. Our business correspondent Simone del Rosario has more spooky stats in her latest Five For Friday.
How old is too old to go trick-or-treating?
If you live in Jacksonville, Illinois, it’s unlawful to trick or treat if you are 13 or older. The law is the same if you’re in Rayne, Louisiana. Until a few years ago, there was a law in Chesapeake, Virginia, from the 1970s threatening jail time for teens who went trick or treating.
The law was never enforced and eventually tossed in 2019, though an amendment did pass saying trick-or-treaters should be 14 years old or younger. Anyone older could be fined up to $250 — but no jail time.
According to a recent NBC News survey, 46% of parents believe children are never too old for trick or treating. The next highest number, 16% of adults, felt the trick or treating should stop around age 17 or 18.
Maine community reflects after state’s worst mass shooting: The Morning Rundown, Oct. 30, 2023
A Maine community comes together to heal just days after the state’s worst mass shooting. And Panera Bread adds warnings to a caffeinated drink after the death of an Ivy League student. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Monday, Oct. 30, 2023.
A vigil was held at the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Lewiston, Maine, near where a gunman opened fire at a bowling alley and restaurant last Wednesday, Oct. 25, killing 18 and injuring 13 others. The deceased victims ranged in age from 14 to 76.
Leaders of various faiths spoke to the massive crowd on the resilience of the town of 40,000, with one reverend saying the tragedies, fear and anxiety will not define the community and will not dictate their future.
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The body of the suspected shooter, 40-year-old Robert Card, was discovered on Friday, Oct. 27, at a recycling facility where he recently worked. Authorities said Card died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Investigators found a multitude of firearms while searching for the suspect and added that the weapons used in the shooting had been purchased legally.
While a motive is still under investigation, authorities said Card had a history of mental illness.
Maine had a total of 29 homicides last year. According to the Associated Press, this shooting brings the total number of mass killings in the U.S. this year to 36.
More aid arrives in Gaza as Israel increases its ground operation
The largest aid convoy since the start of the war between Israel and Hamas arrived in Gaza on Sunday, Oct. 29.
Nearly three dozen trucks brought food and medical supplies to the territory, according to the United Nations, saying it is still a fraction of what civilians need.
The IDF said Monday, Oct. 30, it hit hundreds of Hamas targets over the past several days.
The World Health Organization said several health facilities in Gaza have been damaged, and hospitals are continuing to receive evacuation orders from Israel, saying it is impossible to do so without endangering patients’ lives.
According to the Gaza Health Ministry, the death toll since Israel began its strikes has risen above 8,000 people, adding that many are children.
The White House said President Joe Biden spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday, Oct. 27, reiterating that Israel has every right to defend its citizens from terrorism while underscoring the need “to do so in a manner consistent with international humanitarian law that prioritizes the protection of civilians.”
UAW reaches tentative deal with Stellantis, GM
The United Auto Workers Union reached a tentative deal with General Motors Monday morning, according to CNBC and multiple outlets.
The terms of the GM deal were not immediately known.
The agreement follows the union reaching a deal with Chrysler’s parent company, Stellantis, over the weekend.
Forty-four days into the “Stand-Up Strike,” 14,000 Stellantis workers on the picket line returned to work.
The Stellantis deal, which still needs to be voted on by 43,000 union members, mirrors an agreement between Ford and the union and includes a 25% pay increase over the next 4 1/2 years, including an 11% increase as soon as the deal is ratified.
The union said the tentative agreement not only also saves 5,000 jobs Stellantis was planning to cut, it also adds an additional 5,000 jobs.
UAW President Shawn Fain announced the tentative deal on social media on Saturday, Oct. 28.
“Once again, we have achieved what just weeks ago we were told was impossible. The power of the “Stand-Up Strike” cannot be understated,” Fain said. “Over the 44 days we were on strike, Stellantis more than doubled the total value of the proposals they had on the table.”
Hours after the Stellantis agreement, the union expanded its strike against General Motors, adding a walkout at a Tennessee plant. The expansion brought the total number of GM workers on strike to roughly 18,000.
In a statement, GM said it was disappointed in UAW’s call to expand its strike, adding that the company has bargained in good faith and it hopes to reach an agreement soon.
It would take a two days more for a tentative deal between GM and the union to be reached.
Judge reinstates gag order on Donald Trump in federal 2020 election case
On Sunday night, Oct. 29, the judge overseeing the federal case charging Donald Trump with trying to overturn the 2020 election results reinstated a gag order she issued on the former president in early October.
The order bars Trump, who has denied any wrongdoing in the case, from making public comments that target the special counsel, court staff and witnesses.
U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan imposed the order two weeks ago at the request of the Justice Department, but the former president quickly appealed, and the judge temporarily froze the order a few days later.
Chutkan reinstated the gag order on Sunday after prosecutors cited recent social media comments by Trump about his former chief of staff, who is likely to be a witness in the case.
Last week, in a separate case in New York, Trump was fined $10,000 after that judge said he violated a gag order for the second time.
Donald Trump is currently the Republican front-runner for the 2024 Presidential Election. Over the weekend, the GOP field narrowed as his former vice president, Mike Pence, dropped out of the race, saying, “This is not my time.”
Panera updates drink warning after lawsuit over student’s death
Panera Bread has announced it is updating its warnings online and in-store concerning its caffeinated lemonade beverage.
The change comes after a lawsuit was filed by the family of University of Pennsylvania student Sarah Katz last week.
The suit alleged Katz, who had a heart condition, died after drinking Panera’s charged lemonade last year.
The charged lemonade drink contains 390 milligrams of caffeine. The FDA says 400 milligrams is the daily maximum amount of caffeine a healthy adult can safely consume.
The suit claimed Panera failed to adequately warn its customers about the drink’s ingredients.
Panera told NBC News that while the caffeine content of the lemonade was always listed in-store, out of an “abundance of caution,” the company has enhanced its disclosures for the beverage over the past several days.
Now, a warning reads to use the drink in moderation, and it’s not recommended for children, pregnant or nursing women, or people sensitive to caffeine.
SAG-AFTRA, studio remember Matthew Perry
As negotiations between Hollywood actors and studios continued over the weekend to reach a deal to end the 109-day strike, both sides took a moment to remember a “friend.”
Authorities said there were no signs of foul play. Perry, who starred in the 90s NBC sitcom “Friends,” was 54.
Warner Bros. Television Studios, which produced the series, said, “Matthew was an incredibly gifted actor and indelible part of the Warner Brothers Television Group.”
Israel uses tanks, armored bulldozers for strategic Gaza raid
In the early morning hours of Oct. 26, Israel Defense Forces launched a strategic raid into northern Gaza. Using tanks, armored bulldozers, and infantry, the IDF said its raid lasted several hours and helped “prepare the battlefield” for the impending ground invasion into Hamas-held territory.
The IDF released video of the operation. Thermal cameras mounted to vehicles and drones show black and white video of a column of armor entering northern Gaza. The IDF said Merkava tanks and Caterpillar D9 armored bulldozers destroyed Hamas infrastructure and anti-tank missile launching positions. No Israeli soldiers were injured in the raid, which followed more than two weeks of Israeli airstrikes.
Speaking during a news conference on Oct. 25, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, “We are raining hellfire on Hamas. We have already killed thousands of terrorists, and this is only the beginning. Simultaneously, we are preparing for a ground invasion. I will not elaborate on when, how, or how many. I will also not elaborate on the various calculations we are making, which the public is mostly unaware of and that is how things should be.”
When the ground invasion of Gaza does come, the types of vehicles used in the strategic raid will be common sites in Gaza. The Israeli Merkava Mk 4 tank was built from the tracks up to fight in urban environments. The tanks use a unique engine-in-the-front design and can haul up to four soldiers in addition to its crew.
Israel will also use D9 armored bulldozers. Bulldozers on the battlefield are certainly not a novel concept. The U.S. used D9s starting in Vietnam and the IDF used D9s in previous wars as well.
The D9 is nicknamed “Doobi” in Israel. That’s Hebrew for teddy bear, but you wouldn’t want to cuddle with it. The IDF installs extra armor protection around the engine and cab. Ballistic glass protects the two-man crew from small arms fire, sniper rounds and some explosions. Machine guns mounted to the top, smoke grenade launchers and Trophy Active Protection Systems are also common kit on the armored dozers.
Doobis deploy for a number of jobs. They can help clear mines, IEDs, and other explosives. They can demolish enemy fortifications, are effective against dug-in positions and can even be operated remotely. The IDF has about 100 Doobis at its disposal, and they will no doubt play a key role if and when the order to invade Gaza is given.
Israel said it delayed the invasion so the United States can pre-position air defense systems throughout the Middle East. Iran and its proxies already attacked U.S. forces several times with drone strikes. Those attacks are expected to increase in intensity once the ground operation in Gaza gets underway. President Joe Biden said the U.S. will act swiftly to defend itself, its allies, and its interests in the region.
US officials release findings in deadly Gaza hospital blast: The Morning Rundown, Oct. 25, 2023
U.S. intelligence officials release their findings on who was behind the deadly blast at a hospital in Gaza. Also, dozens of states sue Meta, alleging it uses addictive techniques, harming kids and teens. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023.
IDF launches’ wide-scale strikes’; U.S. issues findings on hospital blast
Officials with the U.S. Office of the Director of Intelligence said they came to that conclusion after examining multiple videos and using geolocation techniques to trace the blast to a rocket launched inside Gaza that suffered a mechanical failure before crashing into the hospital.
U.S. intelligence officials could not say for certain who fired the rocket but said they assess with “low confidence” that the militant group, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, was responsible.
One U.S. official said they examined communication between Hamas militants who were speculating that Palestinian fighters were responsible.
U.S. officials added that the strike was not consistent with Israeli munition.
The blast reportedly killed anywhere from 100 to 300 people, with intelligence officials saying they could not offer a definitive number.
House Republicans nominate Rep. Mike Johnson, R-La., for speaker
House Republicans have selected their next choice for speaker, Rep. Mike Johnson, R-La.
Johnson won the final round of secret ballot voting on Tuesday night, Oct. 24. The next highest vote-getter was former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., who was ousted three weeks ago in a historic vote.
It remains unclear, however, if Johnson, the GOP conference vice chair, can acquire the 217 votes to become the next speaker of the House.
Some GOP members have raised the idea of having a co-speakership with McCarthy returning as speaker and House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, who was once the GOP’s nominee, act as McCarthy’s assistant speaker.
A floor vote on a speaker could happen as early as Wednesday afternoon, Oct. 25.
Michael Cohen testifies against Donald Trump in civil fraud trial
The trial stems from New York Attorney General Letitia James’ $250 million lawsuit, accusing Trump, his eldest sons, and his organization of lying about his wealth to get more favorable loan terms.
Trump’s attorney began cross-examining Cohen by bringing up Cohen’s guilty plea in 2018, where the lawyer admitted to lying to Congress.
During a break in the trial, Trump told reporters that he was not worried about Cohen’s remarks.
Following his testimony against his former boss, Cohen left the courtroom telling reporters it was a “heck of a reunion.”
States sue Meta, alleging addictive features harm young users
Dozens of states have sued Meta, claiming the company used addictive features to keep kids and teens on its social media platforms for more extended periods and have them return again and again.
According to the complaint filed by 33 attorneys general in federal court on Tuesday, Oct. 24, Meta aimed its Instagram and Facebook platforms at younger users through algorithms, notifications, and endless scrolling feeds.
The attorneys general allege Meta’s use of features, including the like button and photo filters, promotes social comparisons and negatively impacts teenagers’ mental health.
The bipartisan group of attorneys general from states including California, Louisiana, Nebraska, and New York seeks financial damages and for Meta to end these practices.
In addition to the 33 states, nine other attorneys general are also filing lawsuits in their states and Washington, D.C.
The social media company said it was disappointed the attorneys general took this path instead of working together to “create clear, age-appropriate standards for the many apps teens use.”
West Maui to welcome back tourists after deadly wildfire
West Maui is welcoming tourists once again following the deadliest wildfire in more than a century, which killed 99 people and destroyed thousands of homes in August 2023.
According to the mayor of Maui County, Richard Bissen, aside from burned sections of the historic town of Lahaina, West Maui will open up to tourists on Nov. 1.
The announcement comes about a month after Hawaii Gov. Josh Green said that tourism would return in West Maui on Oct. 8. But the mayor modified the governor’s plan, and only a small part of Maui’s northern edge has reopened.
Still, not everyone is ready to welcome tourists back, with some petitioning that the community is still healing. Many who lost their homes are concerned they may be forced to leave short-term hotel lodging.
Mayor Bissen said the Red Cross has guaranteed no one will be forced out of their housing.
New Jersey restaurant relinquishes ‘Taco Tuesday’ trademark registration
It may be Wednesday, but we are still talking about “Taco Tuesday.”
The famous phrase is now free to be used by any restaurant in any state, thanks to Taco Bell.
In July 2023, the smaller regional chain Taco John abandoned its trademark registration of the phrase in 49 states, but there was one lone holdout.
Gregory’s Restaurant and Bar in Somers Point, New Jersey, had owned its “Taco Tuesday” trademark for over 30 years. However, that changed when Taco Bell announced on Tuesday that the New Jersey restaurant had relinquished its trademark.
With the trademark canceled in all 50 states, Taco Bell says “Taco Tuesday” now “officially belongs to all who make, sell, eat, and celebrate tacos.”
Israel’s ground invasion into Gaza is still expected to happen by most accounts, but no one seems to know exactly when it will start. Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi said his troops are ready to take their war with Hamas terrorists in Gaza to the next stage, but there are “tactical and strategic considerations” delaying the ground offensive.
IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi says that the Hamas terror group "is regretting" launching a war against Israel.
"Israel is in the midst of a war that was launched by the Hamas terror group. It already regrests it," he says in a press conference near the Gaza border.… pic.twitter.com/iqIetjcQw8
When Hamas terrorists launched their surprise attacks on Oct. 7, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and Israeli intelligence were caught completely off guard. Hamas killed more than 1,400 people and kidnapped more than 200 men, women and children.
The IDF wants to prevent another intelligence disaster, which is why General Halevi said the Israeli military is taking its time before launching the ground invasion.
The IDF is still expected to continue striking Hamas targets from the air and sea while also hoping to collect vital intelligence about where the hostages are being held.
Hamas uses a vast network of underground tunnels to maneuver troops and weapons around Gaza. The tunnels are also used to make weapons, store supplies, and keep kidnap victims.
Above ground, Hamas has likely laid traps throughout Gaza’s densely populated neighborhoods — traps that Israeli forces will have to deal with soon enough.
Hamas terrorists are also known to operate from within the civilian population, using sites like schools and mosques to hide from Israeli forces. The IDF said part of its mission will be to limit civilian casualties. But as with any war, especially a ground invasion, there will be casualties, and the number in Gaza is expected to be high. It’s why Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) described the upcoming battle in Gaza as “urban warfare on steroids.”
The United States sent several military officers to Israel to help advise on the upcoming operation, including three-star Marine Gen. James Glynn. Glynn led special operations against ISIS and served in Fallujah, Iraq — an urban warfare environment known for its ferocity.
According to the U.S. and Israeli governments, Glynn and his American colleagues are in Israel strictly to offer advice. It is believed that neither side wants to feed into the Iranian-backed narrative that the U.S. controls Israel.
In addition to allowing more time for training and intelligence gathering, delaying the Gaza ground invasion also means Israel and the U.S. will have time to better prepare for the regional fallout expected to follow the invasion.
Iran is backing Hezbollah terrorists in Lebanon, along the northern border of Israel. The Iranian regime is also calling in Revolutionary Guard Corps troops from Syria to mass near the Golan area, also to Israel’s north.
While Gaza is expected to be the initial focus of ground operations, sources within the Israeli government have said a northern front could quickly take its place as the primary area of operation for the IDF.
The United States military is also positioning more air defense systems in the Middle East to protect U.S. assets and soldiers. There have been at least half a dozen drone attacks on U.S. military sites in the region since Oct. 7, and the U.S. thinks Iran is behind the strikes, using its many proxies in the region.
As of Oct. 24, Hamas terrorists have released four hostages. The Associated Press cited an anonymous source in the U.S. government who said the Biden administration asked the Israelis to delay the ground assault so both sides can negotiate the release of more hostages. Israel’s patience with those requests is reportedly wearing thin.
When asked if he’d support a “ceasefire for hostages” deal, President Biden said the hostages “should be released first” before talks of a ceasefire begin.
Obama’s remarks come as the Israeli army said it intensified its airstrikes against Hamas in Gaza, striking 400 targets in 24 hours. The Israel Defense Forces said its strikes killed three Hamas deputy commanders on Monday, Oct. 23.
But the proximity of the fighting to civilians has the world concerned. Palestinian authorities said Israeli airstrikes have killed more than 5,000 people in Gaza and injured more than 15,000.
Obama cautions Israel that any “military strategy that ignores the human costs could ultimately backfire.” Obama noted that thousands of Palestinians have already been killed and hundreds of thousands more forced from their homes as Israel responds to the deadly Hamas attack on Oct. 7.
“The Israeli government’s decision to cut off food, water and electricity to a captive civilian population threatens not only to worsen a growing humanitarian crisis; it could further harden Palestinian attitudes for generations, erode global support for Israel, play into the hands of Israel’s enemies, and undermine long term efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region,” Obama said.
Still, Obama said he stands with Israel in its fight against the terrorist group Hamas, but minimizing civilian casualties needs to be a priority. The former president added that allowing humanitarian aid into Gaza is a step in the right direction, “but we need to continue to lead the international community in accelerating critical aid and supplies to an increasingly desperate Gaza population.”
According to reporting by the Associated Press, aid trucks let into Gaza carried just a fraction of what supplies are needed.
As the war continues, the U.S. Navy warned ships traveling in the Red Sea on Tuesday, Oct. 24, to “exercise caution.” The Navy added that in the last few days, it has shot down missiles and drones believed to be launched by Yemen’s Iranian-backed Houthi rebels.
Report: US planning for potential evacuation of Americans in Middle East: The Morning Rundown, Oct. 24, 2023
As a report comes out on the government’s potential plans to evacuate U.S. citizens from the Middle East, former President Barack Obama reacts to the intensifying war. And an off-duty pilot is accused of trying to shut down the engines of an Alaska Airlines plane mid-flight. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023.
Report: U.S. preparing for possible evacuations; Obama issues statement on war
The United States is preparing for the possibility of having to evacuate hundreds of thousands of Americans living in the Middle East should the war escalate, according to a report from the Washington Post.
Officials familiar with the government’s contingency planning told the Post this is a worst-case scenario.
According to the U.S. State Department, approximately 600,000 U.S. citizens live in Israel and 86,000 in Lebanon.
The Post reports that the Biden administration is deeply alarmed at the possibility of the war escalating.
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The Israel Defense Forces said its strikes killed three Hamas deputy commanders Monday night, Oct. 23. Palestinian authorities say Israeli airstrikes have killed more than 5,000 people in Gaza, injuring more than 15,000.
On Monday, Oct. 23, Hamas released two Israeli hostages. However, the Israeli government says the women’s husbands remain in Gaza, among the more than 200 still being held by the militant group. Hamas released two American hostages last week.
President Joe Biden spoke to Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday afternoon, Oct. 23, about securing the release of all hostages, providing safe passage for U.S. citizens and others in Gaza, and sustaining a flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza after Israel cut off food, water, and fuel into the territory.
Former president Barack Obama released a statement Monday night, Oct. 23, backing Israel’s right to defend itself while urging the Israeli military to abide by international law, saying any strategy that ignores human costs could ultimately backfire.
The former president wrote Israel’s blockade on Gaza not only could worsen a growing humanitarian crisis but “… could further harden Palestinian attitudes for generations, erode global support for Israel, play into the hands of Israel’s enemies, and undermine long-term efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region.”
Republicans to vote on new nominee for House speaker
The process will be similar to ranked-choice voting. All eight candidates will be on the ballot; the person who receives the fewest votes will be knocked off, and they’ll keep going until someone gets a majority.
During a forum Monday night, the eight candidates made their case. They answered questions about how they would handle issues like government funding, border security, aid packages to Israel and Ukraine, and more.
Tuesday, Oct. 24, marks three weeks without a speaker.
“Superfog” leads to multiple crashes near New Orleans, 7 dead
What is called a “superfog,” according to Louisiana state police, blanketed Interstate 55, causing multiple crashes involving at least 158 vehicles.
Authorities said Monday night, Oct. 23, the number of deaths could increase as they continue to clear the crash scene. More than 25 people have been taken to the hospital with injuries.
Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards said he is praying for those “hurt and killed” in the crash and called for blood donations. Officials say the “superfog” resulted from smoke from wildfires burning in the area combined with dense fog, leading to low or zero visibility.
Off-duty pilot charged with 83 counts of attempted murder
According to police and the airline, the suspect, 44-year-old Joseph Emerson, was subdued by the flight crew mid-flight after allegedly attempting to “disrupt the operation of the engines” by pulling the fire extinguishing handles on the engines. The plane was forced to make an emergency landing in Portland, Oregon.
The Alaska flight out of Everett, Washington, was on its way to San Francisco where officials say the suspect was scheduled to be on a flight crew of another plane. No passengers or crew members were injured.
Emerson was arrested by Port of Portland police officers and charged with 83 counts of attempted murder.
According to the UAW, 6,800 workers walked off the job in the first work stoppage at a Stellantis facility in over a month.
With this latest move, about 40,000 UAW members working at Stellantis, Ford, and General Motors plants are on strike. The union is seeking, among other items, better pay and shorter workweeks.
The Big Three Detroit automakers have returned with contracts that include pay increases and improved benefits, but UAW says what they offered is not enough.
UAW said in a statement that Stellantis, the maker of Ram, Dodge, and Chrysler vehicles, has “the worst proposal on the table regarding wage progression, temporary worker pay, and conversion to full-time, cost-of-living adjustments (COLA), and more.”
The strike is now in its 6th week.
Oldest dog ever passes away at 31
A 31-year-old dog who made it into the record books is being remembered. Bobi, a guard dog, passed away over the weekend in a veterinary hospital in Portugal.
Humanitarian aid arrives in Gaza as Israel-Hamas war enters third week: The Morning Rundown, Oct. 23, 2023
Trucks of humanitarian aid arrive in Gaza as Israel continues its airstrikes against Hamas. And nine Republicans enter the race for speaker of the House. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Monday, Oct. 23, 2023.
Israel continues attacks on Hamas; more aid arrives for Gaza
According to Palestinian officials, as the war reaches multiple fronts, more trucks carrying humanitarian aid arrived in Gaza from Egypt.
The trucks carry food, water, and medical supplies. However, the United Nations humanitarian agency said what is being brought in is just a fraction of what is needed for the citizens of Gaza.
This morning, Oct. 23, the Israeli military said the number of hostages taken by Hamas has risen to 222.
On Friday, Oct. 20, Hamas released two American hostages, Judith and Natalie Raanan, a mother and daughter from Illinois.
Hamas cited “humanitarian reasons” for their release.
President Joe Biden spoke with leaders of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom on Sunday, Oct. 22. According to the White House, the countries “reiterated their support” for Israel and “its right to defend itself” and called for “adherence to international humanitarian law” to protect civilians.
At home, the Department of Homeland Security warned U.S. citizens that more antisemitic and Islamophobic hate attacks could occur in the country as the war in the Middle East intensifies.
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Michigan State apologizes for Hitler image on videoboard
As concerns grow over hate attacks in the U.S. and heightened tensions on college campuses amid the Israel-Hamas war, Michigan State University issued an apology for an incident that occurred on Saturday, Oct. 21, not on the football field, but on the videoboard.
Michigan State was displaying trivia questions on the board before kickoff when photos began being posted on social media showing an image of Adolf Hitler as one of the answers.
MSU suspended an employee over the incident. The university said the quiz was taken from a YouTube channel and would no longer use it as a source.
Michigan State Vice President and Director of Athletics Alan Haller said the image was “harmful to our communities, especially our Jewish community, which is currently experiencing a rise in antisemitism, including acts of violence.”
Next, the candidates will make their case during a closed-door Republican forum Monday, Oct. 23. An internal secret ballot vote is scheduled for Tuesday morning, Oct. 24, and a vote for speaker could be brought to the floor later in the day.
Nashville police chief’s son suspected of shooting two officers
The study also found that plant-based foods, in general, were negatively associated with PTSD symptoms, while red meat and processed meat were found to correlate with PTSD symptoms.
PTSD symptoms can develop after exposure to a traumatic event, like severe injuries, violence, or death. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that 6% of adults will have PTSD at some point in their lives.
Rally, an investment platform, will offer 47,000 shares of his boyhood home in Commerce, Oklahoma, for $7 each.
Rally said the new owners could make proposals and vote on whether to turn the home into a museum for the New York Yankees legend or add a Little League field to the backyard.
Israel’s Merkava tank designed for upcoming fight with Hamas
To be successful, any ground invasion into Gaza by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will need to include armored vehicles and tanks. The armored chariot of choice for the IDF is the Merkava Mk4 main battle tank.
The Merkava is a battle proven system. It was designed and tailored to meet Israel’s specific warfighting needs. In Gaza, that means urban warfare in one of the most densely populated places on the planet; where snipers, drones, mines, IEDs, RPGs and other threats lurk around every corner.
The Merkava, maybe more than any other tank in the world, is built with crew survivability in mind. The 1500 horsepower, V-12 diesel engine is in the front of the tank. Most western tanks have the engine in the back. The forward location adds another layer of protection between the Merkava’s four-man crew and incoming projectiles.
The underside of the tank is designed to counter mines and IEDs. The tank’s hull is covered with modular armor that can be quickly replaced if damaged.
Israel also incorporated Rafael’s Trophy Active Protection System into the design. The Trophy system provides 360-degree protection against anti-tank rockets, missiles and high-explosive rounds from enemy tanks.
Merkavas are designed to keep their crews alive, but they aren’t invincible. When Hamas launched its Oct. 7 attacks, videos quickly began circulating of a drone successfully disabling a Merkava. A few days later, and many of the Merkavas that massed along the Israel-Gaza border started featuring “cope cages” to counter attacks from above.
In terms of offensive capabilities, the Merkava features a 120mm smooth bore main gun that fires all the standard NATO munitions and can also send LAHAT anti-tank missiles down range. There’s a remote-operated 7.62mm machine gun mounted to the Merkava’s turret as well, and some internal 60mm mortar launchers just for good measure.
The Merkava’s unique front engine design created enough space inside the rear of the tank that it can haul extra ammo, equipment, or three to four additional soldiers into battle. Of course, the extra space can also be used to safely transfer wounded soldiers out as well.
Most of the tank’s crew gains access through a clamshell-style rear entrance. This also provides a safer escape route if the tank is disabled. The tank’s commander gains access through a single hatch on top of the turret.
Like most tanks, the Merkava has some sight limitations when the crew needs to button up the hatches and go inside. To help get around this problem, the Merkava uses Elbit’s C4I systems to display real-time, day or night video feeds of what’s happening outside the tank.
The newest version of the Merkava, called the Barak or “Lightning” in Hebrew, takes this concept of real-time display to the next level. Using a system called Iron Vision, specially designed helmets give tank commanders an external view of the tank so clear it’s been described like looking through glass.
The Merkava Baraks also use AI in their targeting sensors to help its crew look, lock and launch faster.
If an enemy does manage to get a shot off at a Barak, its internal sensors can find the attack’s point of origin and adjust the tanks turret, while also relaying target info to nearby allied assets. This makes it that much easier to engage and eliminate enemy threats.
The IDF just took possession of its first batch of Merkava Baraks in September. According to reporting from Defense News, the IDF’s Armored Corps said a pair of Baraks can carry out the tasks for a combined force that previously required a platoon or whole company’s worth of Merkava Mk4 tanks to complete.
