Member of Israel’s War Cabinet threatens to resign from the government on June 8 if a new war plan is not adopted
DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Benny Gantz, a member of Israel’s three-man War Cabinet, has issued a threat to resign from the government if a new plan for the war in Gaza is not adopted. This move would leave Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu more dependent on his far-right allies. Gantz’s announcement on Saturday escalates tensions within Israel’s leadership over seven months into a war where the objectives of dismantling Hamas and rescuing hostages abducted in the Oct. 7 attack have not been achieved. Gantz has laid out a six-point plan including the return of hostages, ending Hamas’ rule, demilitarizing the strip, and establishing an international civilian administration. He has stated that if the plan is not adopted by June 8, he will quit the government.
White evangelicals continue to support Donald Trump as a candidate
Donald Trump continues to enjoy strong support from white evangelicals and other conservative Christians. He is increasingly incorporating Christian rhetoric and imagery into his campaign events. Despite facing legal troubles and misconduct allegations, Trump still maintains the support of this group, winning about 8 in 10 white evangelical Christians’ votes in 2016 and 2020. This has frustrated conservative evangelicals who view Trump as insincere and potentially authoritarian.
Divisive mobilization law takes effect in Ukraine amidst new Russian offensive
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — A controversial mobilization law in Ukraine has been implemented as the country faces a new offensive from Russia. This law aims to increase troop numbers and make it easier to identify conscripts. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also signed laws allowing prisoners to join the army and increasing fines for draft dodgers. Thousands of Ukrainians have fled the country to avoid the draft, some risking their lives to cross into neighboring Romania and Hungary.
Noncitizen voting becomes a focal point of GOP messaging for the 2024 elections
NEW YORK (AP) — Republicans are rallying around the issue of alleged noncitizens voting in the United States to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process. Despite voting by noncitizens being illegal in federal elections, no significant evidence suggests it is a widespread problem. Nonetheless, Republicans at both federal and state levels are introducing legislation and initiatives to address this issue in upcoming elections.
States are beginning to change practices regarding foster children’s federal benefits
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Some states are revising their policies on using foster children’s federal Social Security benefits to cover state expenses due to pressure from child advocates who view it as unethical and harmful to children. Several states have taken steps since 2018 to halt or scale back the practice, redirecting these funds to the child’s future needs as they transition to adulthood.
U.S. officials suggest American who disappeared in Syria in 2017 has died
WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. officials have received credible intelligence indicating that an American citizen who vanished in Syria seven years ago has passed away. The daughter of the missing man confirmed this information during a meeting with American officials. The man, Majd, disappeared in Syria in 2017 and has not been heard from since.
Slovak prime minister’s accused would-be assassin remains detained
PEZINOK, Slovakia (AP) — The man accused of attempting to assassinate Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico will remain in custody. Fico is in stable condition after surviving multiple gunshot wounds. Prosecutors expressed concerns about the suspect potentially fleeing or committing additional crimes if released. Details about the suspect remain undisclosed.
Donald Trump to address NRA in Texas, reiterating support for gun owners
DALLAS (AP) — Former President Donald Trump is expected to speak at the National Rifle Association event in Texas, reaffirming his commitment to defending the Second Amendment. Trump has positioned himself as a strong advocate for gun owners and has been vocal about his support for gun rights despite challenges posed by mass shootings and increased gun violence.
Thousands without power in Houston amid heat wave following deadly storm
HOUSTON (AP) — As Houston works to restore power and recover from deadly storms, residents are facing a smog warning and rising temperatures. The National Weather Service has issued heat warnings, urging people to be cautious as temperatures rise. More than half a million homes and businesses are without power following the recent severe weather.
Timeline of key events in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs abuse allegations
LOS ANGELES (AP) — New video footage suggests Sean “Diddy” Combs was involved in an altercation with his former protege and girlfriend Cassie in a Los Angeles hotel in 2016. This incident came to light after Cassie filed a lawsuit alleging abuse. The lawsuit was settled, but more women subsequently came forward with similar allegations against Combs. Combs denies any wrongdoing and is facing legal action.
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