Israel-Hamas hostage release deal delayed; White House says war to continue after truce period
Summary
The ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, which includes the release of hostages, has been delayed and will not take effect until Friday. The reason for the delay is unclear, but it is believed that last-minute details are being ironed out. Despite the truce, the White House has stated that the war against Hamas will continue after the truce period ends, stating that Hamas still poses a threat. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has instructed Mossad to act against Hamas leaders, even during the truce. The Palestinian ambassador to the UN has called for a definitive end to the war in Gaza, warning that the truce should not just be a pause before more violence begins.
Bethenny Frankel’s Interior Designer Found Dead in NYC Apartment
Summary
Bethenny Frankel’s interior designer, Brooke Gomez, was found dead in her Upper East Side apartment. Gomez’s body was discovered in an advanced state of decomposition. The cause of death is not considered suspicious. Funeral arrangements are being planned, and friends plan to gather to celebrate Gomez’s life. Gomez had worked with Frankel on multiple design projects and had recently launched her own design firm.
Former Obama Aide Arrested for Hate Crime Against Islamophobic Rant
Summary
Former White House security adviser Stuart Seldowitz, who served under President Barack Obama, has been arrested and charged with a hate crime. A viral video showed him harassing a halal cart vendor in New York City, making Islamophobic comments. The victim plans to sue Seldowitz for harassment and hate speech. Seldowitz has been charged with aggravated harassment and other related crimes. He has apologized for his actions, admitting that he said things he shouldn’t have.
Mysterious Pneumonia Outbreak in China: WHO Seeks Details
Summary
The World Health Organization (WHO) has requested more information from China regarding a mysterious outbreak of influenza-like illness, particularly among children. Chinese hospitals have been overwhelmed with sick children showing symptoms of respiratory illness. Reports indicate that this spike in cases may be attributed to the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions. The WHO is seeking additional information on known pathogens such as influenza and Covid-19, as well as the level of overcrowding in the health system. ProMed, a global surveillance system, issued an alert on the “undiagnosed pneumonia” in children. Hospitals in Beijing and Liaoning have seen an influx of sick children, suggesting that this is not an isolated local outbreak. Patients have high temperatures and pulmonary nodules but no symptoms or cough. The situation is being closely monitored to determine the cause and assess its severity.
No sign of terrorism in car blast at US-Canada border: New York Governor
Summary
New York Governor Kathy Hochul stated that there is no sign of terrorism in the vehicle explosion at the Rainbow Bridge, a border crossing between the US and Canada. The assessment was based on briefings from FBI, Homeland Security, and Customs and Border Protection officials. The investigation will determine if the incident was intentional or accidental. The vehicle was moving at a high rate of speed, crashed into the median, cleared a fence, and exploded. The bridge remains closed indefinitely, and nearby bridges have reopened. Prime Minister Trudeau and President Biden are monitoring the situation. The public was reassured about the latest information. Increased security measures are expected in New York City. Buffalo Niagara International Airport is operational with additional security checks. The investigation is ongoing.
