Where is AI technology now and where is it headed?: Weapons and Warfare
This episode of Weapons and Warfare takes a look at artificial intelligence and aviation. Host Ryan Robertson visits with two companies leading the charge for AI pilots to learn where the technology is now and where it might be headed as the nature of warfare evolves and competition for resources grows.
Congress reaches short-term deal to avoid government shutdown: The Morning Rundown, Feb. 29, 2024
Congressional leaders strike a deal to avoid a partial government shutdown before Friday night’s deadline. And Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is set to face questions from Congress over keeping his health a secret. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024
Congress reaches short-term deal to avoid government shutdown
A looming partial government shutdown set for this weekend has been temporarily dodged, thanks to a bipartisan deal struck by leaders in both the House and Senate on Wednesday, Feb, 29. The agreement introduces two new deadlines for funding government agencies, ensuring operations continue without interruption for now.
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Under the terms of the deal, the 20% of government operations at risk of shutting down by Friday will now receive funding through March 8. This extension covers the Departments of Transportation, Veterans Affairs, and Agriculture. The remaining 80% of the government, which includes the State and Defense Departments, faces a March 22 deadline.
Congressional leaders emphasized the necessity of bipartisan cooperation in a joint statement, declaring, “We are in agreement that Congress must work in a bipartisan manner to fund our government.”
The House is slated to vote today on the temporary funding bill, with the Senate expected to follow suit shortly afterward.
Supreme Court to decide on Donald Trump’s claim of presidential immunity
The Supreme Court will review former President Donald Trump’s assertion of presidential immunity in response to federal charges of election interference. In a move to expedite the case, the Court announced it will hear arguments during the week of April 22, with an intention to issue a ruling before the end of its current term in June.
If Trump’s appeal fails, the trial may be delayed until deep into the election season, casting doubt on whether it will occur before November’s Election Day. Conversely, a victory in his appeal would result in the dismissal of the charges.
With the justices addressing this significant legal question, the trial concerning these allegations is currently paused. After the Supreme Court’s announcement, Trump echoed his argument on Truth Social, stating that without immunity, “a President will not be able to properly function, or make decisions, in the best interest of the United States of America.”
Trump faces three additional criminal cases, including one in New York state court related to hush money payments to a porn star, scheduled to start on March 25. He has pleaded not guilty in all cases, claiming they are politically motivated.
Illinois judge removes Donald Trump from primary ballot
Just weeks after the Supreme Court heard arguments in a Colorado case seeking to bar Donald Trump from running for president again, Illinois has moved to exclude the former president from its primary ballot. On Wednesday, Feb. 28, an Illinois judge ruled Trump ineligible based on the 14th Amendment’s “Insurrection Clause” and his actions related to January 6th.
A spokesperson for Trump’s campaign criticized the judge’s decision as “unconstitutional,” and the ruling is temporarily on hold, allowing time for an appeal.
Illinois is now the third state to attempt to remove Trump from the ballot, joining Colorado and Maine. Both states are awaiting the Supreme Court’s decision, which has put similar rulings on hold.
LLoyd Austin to face questions from Congress over secret hospitalization
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin will be questioned by Congress Thursday, Feb. 29, regarding the secrecy of his prostate cancer surgery and hospitalization. This session marks the first occasion for lawmakers to address Austin directly about his management of the situation.
Austin has expressed regret for not disclosing his condition to President Biden and others. Following scrutiny, the Pentagon released findings from an internal 30-day review earlier this week.
The review acknowledged that while there was “no ill intent” behind Austin’s decision to keep his condition private, it highlighted that the procedures for transferring authority could be enhanced.
Anheuser-Busch reaches tentative agreement with Teamsters Union
Anheuser-Busch, the company behind Budweiser, and the Teamsters Union have announced a tentative labor agreement, averting potential strikes at 12 U.S. plants. The union, representing about 5,000 workers, had set a deadline for reaching a deal by 11:59 p.m. Thursday.
Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien stated, “Teamsters make the beer, Teamsters make Anheuser-Busch successful, and our members deserve the best contract. That is what we fought for and won today.”
The agreement proposes an $8 per hour wage increase over the next five years, with an immediate $4 raise in the first year. Anheuser-Busch’s CEO Brendan Whitworth expressed being “incredibly pleased” with the arrangement.
Union members are scheduled to vote on ratifying the deal next week.
WeightWatchers shares drop after Oprah Winfrey announces board departure
Since investing $43 million in the company and joining the board in 2015, Winfrey has been a prominent figure in WeightWatchers’ brand and marketing strategies.
The news arrives months after Winfrey disclosed her use of weight loss drugs, describing them as “a maintenance tool.” In a move reflecting her ongoing philanthropic efforts, the former talk show host has announced her intention to donate all of her WeightWatchers stock to the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin hospitalized, transfers powers to deputy
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was taken to the critical care unit at a military hospital in Washington on Sunday night, Feb. 11, after being hospitalized for symptoms related to a bladder issue. The Pentagon issued a series of statements describing Austin’s condition following widespread scrutiny over the secrecy surrounding a hospital stay in January due to complications from prostate cancer surgery.
“Earlier today, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III was transported by his security detail to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center to be seen for symptoms suggesting an emergent bladder issue,” a statement from the Defense Department on Sunday, Feb. 11, read. “Tonight, after a series of tests and evaluations, the Secretary was admitted into the critical care unit at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for supportive care and close monitoring.”
Austin, 70, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in December, his lack of communication and transparency about his medical condition and treatment raised concerns about whether Austin was fit to perform his duties. Concerns which President Biden squashed in January, while acknowledging Austin’s lack of transparency was a lapse in judgement.
2 Israeli hostages rescued in Gaza raid; dozens of Palestinians reportedly killed: The Morning Rundown, Feb. 12, 2024
Israeli forces rescue two hostages during a raid in a Gaza town where over a million displaced Palestinians have relocated. And Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin transfers his duties after being admitted into a military hospital. The stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Monday, Feb. 12, 2024.
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The IDF said the “complex rescue operation” at an apartment building was based on “very sensitive and high-quality intelligence.” As part of the operation, the Israeli army launched airstrikes on the area near the apartment in the city of Rafah, where 1.4 million Palestinians have fled to escape Israel’s operation against Hamas.
According to the Hamas-run Health Ministry, 28,000 Palestinians have been killed since the start of the war. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told ABC News on Sunday, Feb. 11, that Israel is working out a “detailed plan” to evacuate those living in Rafah and move them to areas north of the city as Israel looks at sending more troops into the town.
In a phone call on Sunday, Feb. 11, President Joe Biden warned Netanyahu that Israel should only target Hamas terrorists in Rafah if it has a “credible and executable” plan to protect civilians. The war is expected to be among the topics discussed on Monday, Feb. 12, when the president hosts King Abdullah II of Jordan at the White House.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin hospitalized, transfers power to deputy
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was taken to the critical care unit at a military hospital in Washington on Sunday night, Feb. 11, after being hospitalized for symptoms related to a bladder issue. The Pentagon issued a series of statements describing Austin’s condition following widespread scrutiny over the secrecy surrounding a hospital stay in January due to complications from prostate cancer surgery.
Austin has transferred his duties to Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks. The Pentagon said it is not clear how long Austin will remain hospitalized this time, adding his cancer prognosis remains excellent.
Senate advances $95.3 billion Ukraine-Israel aid bill
The Senate’s standalone $95.3 billion foreign aid bill that would send funds to Israel, Ukraine, and other allies has passed a critical step. Senators voted during a rare Sunday, Feb. 12, session 67-27 to advance the bill, with 18 Republicans joining Democrats.
The bill would see $60 billion go to Ukraine, $14 billion to Israel, $8 billion to Taiwan and Indo-Pacific partners, and nearly $10 billion for humanitarian aid for Gaza. A final vote in the Senate could come by midweek.
The bill would then go to the Republican-led House, where the GOP has said any legislation would also need to address the migrant crisis at the U.S. southern border.
Woman killed after opening fire inside Joel Osteen’s megachurch
Two off-duty officers working security shot back, killing the suspect. A 5-year-old boy who was with the woman was critically injured in the incident. A man was also shot in the leg.
In a statement posted to X, Osteen wrote in part, “Our community is devastated by today’s events and grateful for the swift actions of law enforcement.” Police said the investigation into the shooting is ongoing.
Marathon world record holder dies in crash in Kenya
According to officials, Kiptum, a Kenyan native, was driving when his vehicle veered off the road into a ditch and hit a tree. Kiptum and his coach were pronounced dead at the scene; another passenger, a 24-year-old woman, is said to have survived with serious injuries.
Kiptum currently holds the world record for the fastest marathon after he breezed through the Chicago race with a time of 2:00.35. That record was ratified last week by the International Track Federation World Athletics.
Kansas City Chiefs are back-to-back Super Bowl champions
Super Bowl LVIII is in the books, and for the first time in nearly two decades, a team went back-to-back. Yes, for the second year in a row, the Kansas City Chiefs are Super Bowl Champions.
It was only the second time in history the Super Bowl went into overtime. The Big Game also saw the longest field goal in Super Bowl history, twice, as the 49ers’ Jake Moody’s 55-yard field goal in the second quarter was topped by the Chiefs’ Harrison Butker’s 57-yarder a quarter later. The Super Bowl MVP went to Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, his third time winning the honor.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin apologizes for secrecy about cancer diagnosis, hospitalization
In his first public remarks since being hospitalized for complications from surgery to treat his prostate cancer, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin apologized for the secrecy surrounding his medical condition. The defense secretary underwent surgery on Dec. 22, but after serious complications, he returned to the hospital on Jan. 1, the president was informed three days later.
“I want to be crystal clear. We did not handle this right, and I did not handle this right. I should have told the president about my cancer diagnosis,” Austin said. “I should have also told my team and the American public, and I take full responsibility. I apologize to my teammates and to the American people.”
“As a rule, I don’t talk about conversations with my boss, but I can tell you I have apologized directly to President Biden. And I’ve told him that I’m deeply sorry for not letting him know immediately that I received a heavy diagnosis and was getting treatment,” Austin said. “And he has responded with a grace and warm heart that anyone who knows President Biden would expect.”
Austin said he is continuing to undergo physical therapy and is recovering well. Austin added that at no time was the chain of command broken and there was no risk to the departments command and control during his hospitalization.
Schumer: Security bill on immigration, Ukraine aid to be unveiled soon: The Morning Rundown, Feb. 2, 2024
The details of a deal on border security and Ukraine aid is set to be released as the Senate gears up to vote. And the Vision Pro is here, with Apple looking to make ‘spatial computing’ a household phrase. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Friday, Feb. 2, 2024.
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“Conversations are ongoing, and some issues still need resolution, but we are getting very close on the national security supplemental,” Schumer said. “The national security supplemental is so important to enabling us to address multiple crises around the globe.”
The agreement by a bipartisan group of senators would see tens of billions of dollars in aid for Ukraine and Israel and changes to border security amid a record number of illegal crossings. It remains to be seen how Republicans, who have sought to tie immigration reform to any additional funding for Ukraine, will respond to the bill.
Schumer said the bill will be made public, if not Friday, Feb. 2, by Sunday, Feb. 4, and added that will give members enough time to read it before voting.
Ex-CIA hacker gets 40 years in prison for leaking secrets to WikiLeaks
Former CIA software engineer Joshua Schulte has been sentenced to 40 years in prison after being convicted of carrying out the largest data breach in CIA history and for possession of explicit child sexual abuse content. Schulte leaked information released in WikiLeaks’ “Vault 7” in 2017.
He caused untold damage to our national security in his quest for revenge against the CIA for its response to Schulte’s security breaches while employed there.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams
“We will likely never know the full extent of the damage, but I have no doubt it was massive,” Federal Judge Jesse M. Furman said.
The “Vault 7” leak detailed CIA electronic surveillance and cyber warfare capabilities. U.S. WikiLeaks released sensitive information regarding the agency’s surveillance of foreign governments and extremists by hacking devices and computer networks. Attorney Damian Williams, who prosecuted the case, called the leak the most brazen crime of espionage in American history.
“He caused untold damage to our national security in his quest for revenge against the CIA for its response to Schulte’s security breaches while employed there,” Williams said.
CIA Deputy Director David S. Cohen said Schulte’s crimes “caused exceptionally grave harm to U.S. national security and the CIA.”
While prosecutors asked for a life sentence to be handed down, Schulte’s attorneys argued for a nine-year sentence, saying Schulte has been subject to “continuous torture” and is a “bright, kind young man.”
“We are very disappointed that Mr. Schulte received 40 years imprisonment, however, relieved that he did not receive life imprisonment as strongly urged by the government,” said César de Castro, Schulte’s attorney.
In a courtroom statement, Schulte said that this is not justice but vengeance taken by the government. The judge responded, saying he was “blown away” by Schulte’s “complete lack of remorse and acceptance of responsibility.”
Lloyd Austin apologizes for secrecy around cancer treatment
“I want to be crystal clear. We did not handle this right, and I did not handle this right. I should have told the president about my cancer diagnosis,” Austin said. “I should have also told my team and the American public, and I take full responsibility. I apologize to my teammates and to the American people.”
The defense secretary underwent surgery on Dec. 22, but after serious complications, he returned to the hospital on Jan. 1, the president was informed three days later. Austin said he is a private person but never directed anyone to keep his hospitalization from the White House. Austin said he is continuing to undergo physical therapy and is recovering well.
Several people killed after small plane crashes into mobile home park
Several people were killed when a small plane crashed into a mobile home park in Florida on Thursday night, Feb. 1. Emergency crews responded to the fiery scene in Clearwater, finding four trailers on fire, with the crashed plane inside one.
NEW: Footage shows firefighters and police responding to the scene of a small plane crash at a mobile home park in Clearwater, Florida. Fire officials say "several" people have been killed. https://t.co/8fyIcMTShNpic.twitter.com/bZZ9buhRxU
Apple’s latest invention, the Vision Pro mixed-reality headset, is hitting store shelves on Friday, Feb. 2. Apple hopes the Vision Pro has the revolutionary impact the iPhone did back in 2007, bringing what it’s calling “spatial computing” to the mainstream.
But at $3,500, its high price point may initially keep many away. Analysts predict Apple will only sell about 1 million or fewer devices this year. More than 600 apps have been developed specifically for the Vision Pro.
NFL player helps save woman’s life during flight home
In about one week, the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers will be looking to be heroes on the field at the Super Bowl, but one NFL player is already being called a hero for his quick-thinking actions, not on the field, but on a plane.
Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews was flying home to Phoenix on a Southwest flight when a woman had a medical emergency. Flight attendants, as well as a doctor and nurse who were on the plane, ran over to assist.
According to passengers, the woman had a weak pulse and trouble breathing. That’s when Andrews popped up from his seat and suggested the woman could be suffering from a blood sugar problem. Andrews, who has Type 1 diabetes, had his diabetic testing kit on him. He handed it over, showing the doctor and nurse how to use it, and soon the woman was stabilized. In a statement, Andrews thanked the flight attendants and said the doctor and nurse were the real heroes.
Trump wins New Hampshire Republican primary: The Morning Rundown, Jan. 24, 2024
With a commanding lead, former President Donald Trump is declared the winner in New Hampshire. And scientists put out a grave warning as the Doomsday Clock nears midnight. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Wednesday, Jan. 24.
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“Well, I want to thank everybody,” former President Donald Trump said. “This is a fantastic state. This is a great, great state. You know we won New Hampshire three times now, three, three.”
With 91% of the estimated vote in as of late Tuesday night, Jan. 23, Trump held a double-digit lead over Haley, with the former president at 54% and the former U.N. ambassador at 43%. While she came in second, following her third-place finish in last week’s Iowa caucuses, Haley said despite her critics claiming the race is over, she is not going anywhere.
“I have news for all of them. New Hampshire is first in the nation; it is not the last in the nation,” Haley said.
On the Democratic side, President Joe Biden won thanks to a write-in campaign since the president did not put his name on the ballot following a disagreement between the Democratic National Committee and New Hampshire Democrats. Biden and the DNC see South Carolina as the state to hold the first Democratic primary in the country. That primary will take place on Feb. 3, 2024.
There was also a shakeup in Biden’s reelection campaign on Tuesday. Two White House aides are moving over to help run his reelection bid.
US military strikes Iran-backed militia groups in Iraq and Yemen
As tensions in the Middle East continue to grow, the U.S. announced it had struck targets in Yemen and Iraq on Tuesday, Jan. 23. According to U.S. Central Command, U.S. forces conducted strikes in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen after locating two anti-ship missiles aimed at the Southern Red Sea, determining they posed an imminent threat to merchant vessels and Navy ships.
A short time earlier, at the direction of President Joe Biden, U.S. forces conducted strikes in Iraq targeting Iran-backed groups, including the Kataib Hezbollah Militia, in response to an attack on U.S. forces that injured four Americans at al-Asad Airbase on Saturday, Jan. 20.
According to reports, the militia group launched a barrage of missiles at the base, two of which made it through defense systems, making it the most serious attack on the base this year by the militia group. According to Central Command, U.S. strikes hit the Iranian-backed Kataib Hezbollah’s headquarters, training facilities, and some munitions storage areas.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin called the strikes in Iraq a direct response to attacks on U.S. personnel, while the Iraqi prime minister called the strikes an irresponsible escalation and considered them to be “hostile acts.”
Turkey approves Sweden’s NATO membership after months of delay
Sweden’s chances of becoming a member of NATO became even more of a possibility on Tuesday, Jan. 23, thanks to Turkey. Turkish legislators endorsed Sweden’s membership with a vote of 287-55 after having delayed it for over a year.
Turkey had accused Sweden of being too lenient toward groups deemed by Turkey as security threats. Over the past year, Sweden has altered its anti-terrorism laws. The Swedish prime minister responded on “X,” saying, “Today we are one step closer to becoming a full member of NATO.”
U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said this was welcomed news, calling Sweden a “strong, capable defense partner” and adding that bringing Sweden into NATO will make the alliance “safer and stronger.” This leaves Hungary as the only NATO ally to not yet ratify Sweden’s accession. NATO requires unanimous approval from all members to add another country.
Doomsday Clock set to 90 seconds to midnight
The apocalypse is nearing, at least according to atomic scientists and their Doomsday Clock. On Tuesday, Jan. 23, the science-oriented nonprofit organization, the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists, set the Doomsday Clock to 90 seconds to midnight for the second year.
This is the closest to the hour of midnight the clock has ever been in its 77 years, with midnight representing the hour when the Earth will become unlivable. The scientists set the clock each year based on what they call “existential” risks to the planet and humans. The group said this year, the concerns were centered on the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, nuclear threats, climate change and the rise of artificial intelligence.
Netflix adds 13.1 million subscribers, beating Wall Street expectations
Netflix has reasons to celebrate Wednesday morning, Jan. 24, announcing it has gained millions of subscribers and surpassed Wall Street expectations. The streaming giant said on Tuesday, Jan. 23, it added 13.1 million subscribers in the fourth quarter, nearly 5 million more than expected.
This brings the total number of its paid subscribers to 260.8 million, which is more than any of its streaming competition. Netflix said its crackdown on password sharing is a success, making sure those who enjoy the service are paying for it too. The company said its focus is on expanding its entertainment offerings, from live events to sports content to video games, and increasing its advertising business.
The nominations for the 96th annual Academy Awards were announced on Tuesday, Jan. 23, and as usual, there were plenty of surprises, as well as some significant snubs. Christopher Nolan’s three-hour blockbuster “Oppenheimer” led the field with 13 nominations, including best picture and director and acting nominations for Cillian Murphy, Robert Downey Jr., and Emily Blunt.
The film’s partner in this past summer’s “Barbenheimer” craze, “Barbie,” the top-grossing film of the year, garnered eight nominations, including best picture and two for acting. However, “Barbie’s” director Greta Gerwig and star Margot Robbie were both left out of their respective categories. Ryan Gosling, who was nominated, called out the snubs and said they were the two people “most responsible for the history-making globally celebrated film.”
Speaking of history, Lily Gladstone, the star of “Killers of the Flower Moon,” became the first Native American nominated for best actress. The 2024 Oscars air on March 10 on ABC.
According to the doctors’ statement, Austin showed improvement throughout his stay, and he has been sent home with planned physical therapy and regular follow-ups. The medical team expects a complete recovery.
This discharge follows a two-week recovery period from complications related to prostate cancer surgery. During this time, Austin faced scrutiny for keeping his health condition a secret from senior Biden administration leaders, a move President Biden referred to as a “lapse in judgment.”
Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks assumed Austin’s duties earlier this month, a transition that occurred before the White House was aware of his hospitalization. Austin has since resumed his duties.
In response to the situation, the Defense Department’s Inspector General announced a review to examine the handling of Secretary Austin’s hospitalization. The review’s focus is to assess whether DOD policies and procedures ensure timely notifications and a smooth transition of authorities in relevant situations.
Pentagon reveals Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was diagnosed with prostate cancer
The Pentagon has released more information concerning the health of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. After being diagnosed with prostate cancer in December, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, 70, underwent a “minimally invasive” surgery, which led to his hospitalization. According to Austin’s doctors, he underwent surgery on Dec. 22; a week later, he reported severe pain in his abdomen, hip, and leg.
Unbeknown to anyone in the White House or his own staff, Austin was taken to the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Jan. 1 and treated for a urinary tract infection. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said on Tuesday, Jan. 9, even the president was kept in the dark about the diagnosis.
“Nobody at the White House knew that Secretary Austin had prostate cancer until this morning,” Kirby said. “And the president was informed immediately after.”
Doctors said that Austin’s cancer was detected early, and the prognosis was excellent. Still, questions about transparency within the Defense Department persist, as up until Tuesday, Jan. 9, it was believed that Austin underwent an elective medical procedure, not prostate surgery. It is still not clear how or if the cancer diagnosis will affect Austin’s work.
House Republicans have launched a formal inquiry into where and why communication collapsed, viewing the incident evidence of dereliction of duty.
“With wars in Ukraine and Israel, the idea that the White House and even your own Deputy did not understand the nature of your condition is patently unacceptable,” Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Ala., said in a letter to Austin.
U.S. shoots down missiles, drones in largest Houthi attack in Red Sea: The Morning Rundown, Jan. 10, 2024
U.S. forces take down a barrage of missiles and drones in what is being called a “complex attack” by Houthi militants. And masked gunmen storm onto the set of a live newscast in Ecuador as the country’s president declares a state of emergency. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024.
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U.S. shoots down barrage of Houthi missiles, drones over Red Sea
United States Central Command said U.S. and British warships shot down a massive barrage of drones and missiles fired by Iran-backed Houthi militants in Yemen Tuesday night, Jan. 9. The U.K. defense minister said the attack over the Red Sea was the largest by the Houthis since the start of the war between Israel and Hamas.
Central Command said in a statement that U.S. forces intercepted a “complex attack” of 18 drones, two anti-ship cruise missiles, and one anti-ballistic missile. Fighter jets from the aircraft carrier Dwight D. Eisenhower and four other U.S. warships, along with a British Navy destroyer, took down the 21 munitions fired by the Houthis. The U.S. reported no injuries to military personnel or damage to its ships.
The latest attack by the Houthi militants comes a week after the U.S. and a dozen allies issued a final warning to the group to stop their attacks on commercial ships traveling through the Red Sea or “bear the responsibilities of their consequences.” The Houthis said they will only cease their attacks when Israel stops the war in Gaza.
Gunmen storm set of live TV newscast in Ecuador
Tense and disturbing moments during a live news broadcast airing in Ecuador on Tuesday, Jan. 9, when a group of masked gunmen stormed the set waving guns and explosives. Sounds of gunshots could be heard in the background as the assailants shouted out threats over the air for 15 minutes before the feed cut out.
The station’s crew was forced onto the set and ordered to lie down. It was not immediately clear if any of the employees were injured during the incident. Police responded, arrested the 13 gunmen, and said they would be charged with terrorism.
The head of Ecuador’s armed forces said the attacks were in response to the government’s moves against gangs in the country. The president of Ecuador declared a state of emergency on Monday, Jan. 8, after one high-profile gang leader escaped from prison. Following the TV set attack, the president issued a decree declaring the South American country had entered an “internal armed conflict.”
Defense Secretary diagnosed with prostate cancer
After being diagnosed with prostate cancer in December, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin underwent a “minimally invasive” surgery, which led to his mysterious hospitalization. According to Austin’s doctors, he underwent surgery on Dec. 22; a week later, he reported severe pain in his abdomen, hip, and leg. Unbeknown to anyone in the White House, Austin was taken to the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Jan. 1 and treated for a urinary tract infection.
“Nobody at the White House knew that Secretary Austin had prostate cancer until this morning,” Kirby said. “And the president was informed immediately after.”
Doctors said that Austin’s cancer was detected early, and the prognosis was excellent. Still, questions about transparency within the Defense Department persist, as President Biden was kept in the dark, and up until Tuesday, Jan. 9, it was believed that Austin underwent an elective medical procedure, not prostate surgery. It is still not clear how or if the cancer diagnosis will affect Austin’s work.
At least 4 dead due to winter storms across the country
Much of the country was hit by severe weather on Tuesday, Jan. 9, from tornadoes to snow to heavy rain and flash flooding, with officials confirming at least four people have died due to the storms. An 81-year-old woman was killed when a suspected tornado swept through Alabama. Fire officials in Birmingham said one person died when a tree fell onto a car. A similar incident killed a person near Atlanta.
In North Carolina, one person was killed, and four others were hospitalized after a suspected tornado hit a mobile home park. At least four tornadoes were believed to have touched down in the Florida panhandle. In the Midwest, a snowstorm that began Monday, Jan. 8, is blanketing parts of the region with up to 12 inches of snow. The strong storms knocked out power to more than 600,000 customers along the East Coast Tuesday night, Jan. 9.
SEC says X account hacked after post approving Bitcoin ETFs
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission said its account on the social media site X was hacked after a post went out Tuesday, Jan. 9, claiming the SEC had approved Bitcoin ETFs, exchange-traded funds, that would allow everyday investors to have exposure to Bitcoin without owning the cryptocurrency directly.
The SEC’s false post led to the price of Bitcoin spiking for a brief period. Minutes later, the SEC sent out a follow-up post that said its account had been compromised and the commission did not make the message approving Bitcoin ETFs. On Tuesday night, Jan. 9, X released a statement explaining an unidentified user had breached SEC’s account by obtaining a phone number through a third party.
X confirmed that the SEC account did not have two-factor authentication enabled. The SEC is expected to decide on Bitcoin ETFs sometime this week.
NASA delays moon landing to 2026
It has been over 50 years since a human stepped foot on the moon, and now we’ll have to wait a little longer to see it again. On Tuesday, Jan. 9, NASA announced it is delaying the Artemis III mission from late 2025 to September 2026. The mission would see humans land on the moon for the first time since 1972. NASA said the delay concerns SpaceX developing its starship lunar lander and completing multiple test flights. NASA is also pushing back the timing for its Artemis II mission from November 2024 to September 2025.
The flight would send four astronauts around the moon and back. NASA said the delay will give engineers more time to resolve an issue with the capsule’s protective heat shield, which was found during the first Artemis mission.