AP News Summary: National News at 12:59 a.m. EDT

Jurors in Trump’s hush money trial zero in on testimony of key witnesses as deliberations resume

NEW YORK (AP) — The jury in Donald Trump’s hush money trial is set to resume deliberations after requesting to revisit potentially crucial testimony regarding the alleged hush money scheme central to the historic case. Following about 4 1/2 hours of deliberations on Wednesday without reaching a verdict, the 12-person jury will reconvene on Thursday. Along with wanting to rehear testimony from a tabloid publisher and Trump’s former lawyer and personal fixer, the jury also asked to review at least part of the judge’s hourlong instructions meant to provide guidance on the law.

Israel says it has taken control of a key area of Gaza’s border with Egypt that is filled with smuggling tunnels

JERUSALEM (AP) — The Israeli military announces that it has gained control of a strategic corridor along Gaza’s border with Egypt. This seizure on Wednesday gives Israel authority over a land strip reportedly filled with smuggling tunnels that have supported the militant Hamas group. However, this action could complicate relations with Egypt, which has cautioned against an increase of Israeli troops in the area. The move coincides with Israel’s expanded military presence in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. Additionally, a senior Israeli official warned that the conflict could extend through the end of the year.

The US-built pier in Gaza collapsed. Here’s what led to this and what could happen next

WASHINGTON (AP) — Several security, logistical, and weather issues have hindered the plan to deliver urgently needed humanitarian aid to Gaza through a pier built by the US military. The pier fell apart due to strong winds and heavy seas just over a week after becoming operational, prompting criticism that it did not meet expectations or justify its $320 million cost. US officials claim that repairs are underway and the pier will be functional again soon. Aid organizations have mixed reactions, appreciating the aid while describing the pier as a distraction that eases pressure on Israel to open more land routes. The Biden administration has always maintained that the pier was not meant as a comprehensive solution.

Hong Kong court convicts 14 pro-democracy activists in the city’s largest national security case

HONG KONG (AP) — A Hong Kong court has found 14 pro-democracy activists guilty in the city’s most significant national security case under a law imposed by Beijing that has nearly eradicated public dissent. Those convicted on Thursday included former lawmakers Leung Kwok-hung and Lam Cheuk-ting. However, judges acquitted two former district councilors Lee Yue-shun and Lawrence Lau. They were among 47 democracy advocates prosecuted in 2021 for their participation in an unofficial primary election. Prosecutors accused them of trying to disrupt Hong Kong’s government and remove the city’s leader by gaining the legislative majority needed to block budgets indiscriminately.

To recuse or refuse? A look at Supreme Court justices’ decisions on whether to step aside in cases

WASHINGTON (AP) — Justice Samuel Alito’s decision not to recuse himself from two high-profile Supreme Court cases offers insight into the opaque process by which justices determine recusal. Alito faced calls from Democrats to step aside from cases involving former President Donald Trump and Jan. 6 defendants due to the controversy over flags flown over his homes. Alito clarified on Wednesday that his wife was responsible for the flags, which resembled those carried by Capitol rioters in January 2021. In letters to Congress members, Alito stated that his impartiality could not reasonably be questioned. While this explanation may not satisfy Democratic critics, they have limited recourse.

A violent, polarized Mexico heads to the polls to choose between 2 female presidential candidates

MEXICO CITY (AP) — Mexico enters Sunday’s election deeply divided, with friends and family members avoiding political discussions to prevent worsening unbridgeable gaps. Drug cartels have divided the country into conflicting fiefdoms. The situation is aggravated by an unusual heatwave, drought, pollution, and political violence. It remains uncertain whether Mexico’s next president — both major-party candidates are women — will be able to reduce the underlying violence and polarization. Soledad Echagoyen, a Mexico City doctor supporting President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s Morena party, reveals that she can no longer discuss politics with colleagues, citing “personal attacks” that have occurred.

Iran initiates the registration period for the presidential election following a helicopter crash that claimed Raisi’s life

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Iran has launched a five-day registration window for individuals interested in running in the June 28 presidential election. The winner will succeed the late Ebrahim Raisi, who died in a helicopter crash earlier this month along with seven others. The election takes place as Iran grapples with the aftermath of the May 19 crash, escalating tensions with the US, and widespread protests, including those related to the 2022 death of Mahsa Amini. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, aged 85, retains ultimate authority over all state matters. Past presidents have influenced Iran toward greater interaction or heightened hostility with the West. The registration period, commencing on Thursday, will extend for five days.

A nurse praised for compassion is dismissed after mentioning Gaza ‘genocide’ in a speech

NEW YORK (AP) — A nurse was terminated by a New York City hospital after referring to Israel’s conflict in Gaza as a “genocide” while delivering an acceptance speech for an award. Hesen Jabr was being honored by NYU Langone Health for her empathy in serving mothers who had lost infants when she drew parallels between her work and the plight of mothers in Gaza. Jabr stated that Palestinian women are enduring unimaginable losses “during the ongoing genocide in Gaza.” She was fired upon returning to work the next time. An NYU Langone spokesperson mentioned that some of Jabr’s colleagues were upset by her remarks.

At 100, this veteran believes the title ‘The Greatest Generation’ is fitting ‘because we saved the world.’

HELEN, Ga. (AP) — Andy Negra Jr. proudly identifies himself as part of “The Greatest Generation.” The World War II veteran, residing in Helen, Georgia, recently celebrated his 100th birthday. He served in the 128th Armored Field Artillery Battalion, 6th Armored Division, landing on Utah Beach in Normandy on July 18, 1944. He later participated in the battle to recapture the crucial French Port city of Brest and served during the Occupation of Germany. On the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion, he plans to visit the site where he survived an attack by German planes.

‘Star Trek’ actor George Takei is committed to sharing his Japanese American story

TOKYO (AP) — The internment of 120,000 Japanese Americans, including children, who were labeled as enemies during World War II, has traumatized and mobilized the Japanese American community over the years. For George Takei, known for portraying Hikaru Sulu aboard the USS Enterprise in the “Star Trek” series, this is a narrative he is dedicated to sharing on all platforms. Takei has released a new picture book detailing his family’s experiences during the war, titled “My Lost Freedom.” He expresses concern that the lessons on the failures of American democracy have not been fully absorbed, even among Japanese Americans, particularly in younger generations.