Biden has criticized Israel over the killing of 7 aid workers, leading to fears of a wider conflict in the Middle East. The suspected Israeli airstrike on the Syrian capital and Iran’s vow of retaliation have escalated tensions. Experts believe neither country wants an all-out conflict. Israel has yet to comment on the attack, which killed top Iranian commanders, but Iran has promised to respond. Meanwhile, President Biden expressed outrage at Israel’s actions, stating they have not done enough to protect civilians. The incident has sparked condemnation and raised concerns about the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.
In Taiwan, the largest earthquake in a quarter-century has resulted in at least nine deaths and over 730 injuries. The 7.4-magnitude quake caused widespread damage, with one building partially collapsed and another at an angle. The damage was concentrated near the epicenter, and authorities are attempting to free trapped individuals. While tsunami warnings were issued, they have since been lifted. The U.S. Pacific Tsunami Warning Center confirmed the passing of the tsunami threat. The situation is still evolving, and the number of casualties could rise in the coming days.
Deputies in San Bernardino County fatally shot 15-year-old Savannah Graziano during a roadside shootout, with new video challenging initial claims about the incident. The video suggests that Savannah was not wearing tactical gear, despite earlier statements. Savannah was abducted by her father, who was suspected of killing her mother, setting off a car chase and shooting involving deputies. Both Savannah and her father died in the altercation. The details surrounding the incident are under scrutiny, bringing to light discrepancies in the official narrative.
In Enid, Oklahoma, city council member Judd Blevins, with ties to white nationalism, was ousted in a recall vote. Blevins participated in a march with neo-Nazis and engaged in racist and antisemitic writings. The local community voted to replace him with Cheryl Patterson, a former teacher and Republican. The recall effort gained momentum after Blevins’ past came to light, leading to his removal from the City Council. Similar political shifts have been observed elsewhere, such as in Wisconsin, where voters approved Republican-backed constitutional amendments.
Former President Trump is embroiled in legal battles related to his social media platform Truth Social and the New York hush money case. Trump is suing Truth Social co-founders for costly mistakes that delayed the platform’s public offering, seeking to strip their shares in the company. Additionally, Trump’s legal team is attempting to have Judge Juan Merchan removed from the hush money case. Trump also posted a $175 million bond in the civil fraud case after an appeals court intervened. Furthermore, author J.K. Rowling tested the limits of a new Scottish hate-crime law with controversial remarks about transgender women.
In other news, the Supreme Court is facing concerns about the health of Justice Sonia Sotomayor, Biden had a discussion with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Rep. Lauren Boebert underwent surgery for a blood clot, and Lizzo clarified her announcement of quitting. Additionally, severe weather impacted Kentucky and Tennessee, the collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore affected marine traffic, and passengers were stranded on an African island after a cruise ship left without them. The NBC Select Wellness Awards winners have been announced, showcasing editor-approved products in various categories.
