Jurors in Trump’s hush money trial focus on testimony of key witnesses as deliberations continue
NEW YORK (AP) — The jury in Donald Trump’s hush money trial is set to continue deliberations after requesting to review crucial testimony related to the alleged hush money scheme central to the case. The 12-person jury deliberated for about 4 1/2 hours on Wednesday but did not reach a verdict. They will reconvene on Thursday. In addition to revisiting testimony from a tabloid publisher and Trump’s former lawyer, the jury also asked to revisit parts of the judge’s instructions that were intended to guide them on the law.
The Latest | 2 soldiers are killed in a West Bank car-ramming attack, Israeli military reports
The Israeli military has reported that two soldiers were killed in a car-ramming attack in the occupied West Bank. Violent incidents in the West Bank have escalated alongside the conflict in Gaza, as Israel carries out raids in Palestinian towns to combat militancy, resulting in the deaths of over 500 Palestinians. In the Gaza Strip, residents of Rafah have reported intense fighting on Wednesday. The United Nations has stated that over 1 million Palestinians have fled the violence and are now seeking refuge in other war-torn areas, lacking basic necessities for survival such as shelter, food, and water.
The US-built pier in Gaza has suffered damage. Here’s an overview of the situation and what might come next
WASHINGTON (AP) — A series of security, logistical, and weather-related issues have impacted the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza through a U.S. military-built pier. The pier, which cost $320 million, broke apart shortly after becoming operational due to strong winds and heavy seas. U.S. officials have stated that the pier is being repaired and will soon be reinstalled. While aid groups welcome the assistance, some view the pier as a distraction that reduces pressure on Israel to open more land routes. The Biden administration has clarified that the pier was never intended to be a comprehensive solution.
14 pro-democracy activists convicted, 2 acquitted in Hong Kong’s largest national security case
HONG KONG (AP) — Fourteen pro-democracy activists have been found guilty in Hong Kong’s biggest national security case. The court ruled that their plan to bring about change through an unofficial primary election would have undermined the government’s authority and created a constitutional crisis. Following the 2019 protest movement in Hong Kong, dissent has been heavily suppressed through restrictions on public choice in elections, crackdowns on the media, and the implementation of a security law imposed by Beijing, under which the activists were convicted.
To recuse or refuse? Examining Supreme Court justices’ decisions on stepping aside in cases
WASHINGTON (AP) — Justice Samuel Alito’s decision to not recuse himself from two high-profile Supreme Court cases has shed light on the opaque process by which justices determine whether to step aside. Democrats had urged Alito to recuse himself from cases involving former President Donald Trump and Jan. 6 defendants due to controversy over flags flown at his homes. Alito clarified on Wednesday that his wife was responsible for flying the flags, similar to those carried by Capitol rioters in January 2021. Alito assured members of Congress that his impartiality could not reasonably be questioned, though this explanation may not fully satisfy Democratic critics.
A divided Mexico heads to the polls to choose between 2 female presidential candidates
MEXICO CITY (AP) — Mexico is deeply divided as it approaches Sunday’s election, with friends and family members avoiding political discussions to prevent exacerbating existing divides. The country is plagued by drug cartel conflicts that have fragmented it into warring factions while also experiencing extreme heat, drought, pollution, and political violence. It remains uncertain if the next president of Mexico, both major-party candidates being female, will be able to address the underlying issues of violence and polarization. A doctor in Mexico City supporting President AndrĂ©s Manuel LĂłpez Obrador’s party noted the challenges of discussing politics due to personal attacks.
Papua New Guinea landslide survivors hesitant to relocate after hundreds are buried
MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Traumatized survivors of the massive landslide in Papua New Guinea are reluctant to move to safer ground as authorities prepare to clear debris using heavy machinery, risking another landslide. Up to 8,000 individuals may need to be evacuated as the area remains unstable following the collapse last week. However, only 700 people have agreed to leave, with cultural sensitivities and reluctance to vacate their homes cited as barriers to relocation. Tribal warfare and past incidents have contributed to the hesitation in moving to safer areas.
A nurse honored for compassion is terminated after mentioning Gaza ‘genocide’ in speech
NEW YORK (AP) — A nurse was fired by a New York City hospital after referring to the conflict in Gaza as a “genocide” during an acceptance speech for an award. While being recognized by NYU Langone Health for her compassionate care, the nurse mentioned the suffering of mothers in Gaza and characterized it as a “genocide.” She was terminated from her position the following day after colleagues expressed discontent with her comments. A spokesperson for NYU Langone explained that some individuals were upset by the nurse’s remarks.
At 100 years old, World War II veteran reflects on being part of the ‘Greatest Generation’
HELEN, Ga. (AP) — Andy Negra Jr. proudly considers himself among the last of the “Greatest Generation.” The centenarian, who resides in Helen, Georgia, recently celebrated his 100th birthday. He served in the 128th Armored Field Artillery Battalion, 6th Armored Division during World War II, participating in pivotal battles in Normandy and Germany. Negra Jr. plans to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion with a visit to the location where he survived a German plane attack.
‘Star Trek’ actor George Takei remains committed to sharing his Japanese American story
TOKYO (AP) — The internment of 120,000 Japanese Americans, including children, during World War II continues to impact and motivate the Japanese American community. George Takei, best known for his role as Hikaru Sulu in the “Star Trek” franchise, is dedicated to sharing his family’s wartime experience to raise awareness. Takei has released a new picture book titled “My Lost Freedom” detailing his family’s struggles during the war. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the failures of American democracy, particularly among younger generations and within the Japanese American community.
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