New York News
Columbia University President Minouche Shafik abruptly resigned after less than a year in office, citing the toll of ongoing anti-Israel protests on campus as a primary reason for her departure. In her resignation letter, Shafik pointed to the “period of turmoil” and its impact on her family and the university community.
Shafik announced she would return to the United Kingdom to take on a new role advising the foreign secretary on international development. Her tenure was marred by criticism over her handling of the protests, including accusations of not addressing rising antisemitism on campus, which escalated when pro-Palestinian demonstrators set up encampments and took over buildings. Shafik’s resignation follows the recent departure of three university deans after a controversial text chain that mocked Jewish students was exposed. Dr. Katrina Armstrong, CEO of Columbia University Irving Medical Center, will serve as interim president as the university navigates ongoing challenges, with concerns among students and faculty about how the leadership change will affect the upcoming semester.
For the first time in over 20 years, no graduates from the prestigious Ramaz School on Manhattan’s Upper East Side will be attending Columbia University’s College, a decision influenced by growing concerns over antisemitism on campus. While one Ramaz graduate enrolled in Columbia’s School of General Studies and three others chose Barnard College, none opted for Columbia College itself. The rise in antisemitic incidents, particularly amid pro-Palestinian protests, played a significant role in these choices. Ramaz stated that it prioritizes providing detailed information about the campus climate at various colleges, particularly in light of the increasing antisemitism seen at some institutions.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman signed the Mask Transparency Act into law, a measure that criminalizes the wearing of masks with the intent to harm or harass others in public. The legislation, aimed at curbing criminal activities that rely on anonymity, was introduced amidst rising concerns over antisemitism and other forms of violence. Blakeman emphasized that the law, which includes exceptions for medical and religious reasons, is essential for public safety and does not infringe on individual rights. The signing ceremony, marked by strong community support, highlighted Nassau County’s commitment to protecting its residents and maintaining its status as the safest large county in America.
New York City has spent over $5 billion on the migrant crisis, primarily on housing, services, and supplies for the influx of asylum seekers. The costs, which have been rising rapidly, could potentially double to $10 billion by June 2025. Mayor Eric Adams highlighted the financial strain on the city, comparing the expenditures to nearly the entire NYPD budget. Despite public backlash and challenges in managing the crisis, Adams remains cautiously optimistic, noting a significant decrease in new arrivals and crediting recent policy changes for making the situation more manageable, though he acknowledges that the city is not yet “out of the woods.”
Former U.S. Representative George Santos, once a rising Republican figure, pleaded guilty to charges of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft, admitting in court that he betrayed the trust of his constituents by engaging in a fraudulent scheme. The 36-year-old acknowledged that he and his former campaign treasurer, Nancy Marks, had falsified campaign contribution data by using the names of friends and family to artificially inflate donor numbers between October 2021 and October 2022. Santos, who had initially pleaded not guilty to nearly two dozen charges, could face a prison sentence ranging from 2 to 20 years, though federal guidelines suggest a term of 6 to 7 years. During the hearing, Santos, visibly emotional, accepted full responsibility for his actions, expressing deep regret and vowing to make amends. This comes after his expulsion from the House of Representatives, making him the first House Republican and only the sixth U.S. Representative ever expelled. His political downfall was marked by numerous allegations, including misuse of campaign funds for personal expenses, lying to Congress about his wealth, and collecting unemployment benefits while employed. Despite a failed attempt to run as an Independent, Santos now faces sentencing on February 7, following the collapse of his career and reputation.
Smoke from Canadian wildfires has returned to New York City and surrounding areas, bringing hazy skies that are expected to persist for several days. The National Weather Service noted that while the smoke may cause haziness, it is not expected to significantly impact air quality, with current levels being classified as “moderate.” This contrasts with the severe conditions of the previous summer, when wildfires led to New York City’s worst air quality day. Although some residents reported smelling smoke, experts suggest that a repeat of last year’s intense “smokepocalypse” is unlikely.
US NEWS
Trayon White, a Washington, D.C. council member known for his controversial 2018 comments about the Rothschilds controlling the weather, has been arrested by the FBI, as reported by multiple news outlets. The arrest caught other city officials by surprise, and the reasons behind it remain unclear. White, who represents Ward 8 and was expected to win a third term, had previously apologized for his remarks and made attempts to mend relations with the Jewish community, including attending a Passover Seder and visiting the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. However, during the museum tour, White abruptly left halfway through, leaving those involved in his rehabilitation puzzled.
A Republican-led investigation into President Joe Biden’s involvement in his family’s business dealings has concluded that he “engaged in impeachable conduct,” abused his office, and defrauded the United States to enrich his family, according to a 292-page report released by the House Oversight, Judiciary, and Ways and Means Committees. The report alleges “overwhelming evidence” that Biden used his public office to benefit his family’s foreign business ventures, citing payments of over $27 million from foreign entities since 2014. It also claims that Biden attended meetings and dinners with his family’s foreign business partners and participated in complex financial transactions to launder money. The report argues that Biden’s actions, which include attending a dinner with Russian oligarch Yelena Baturina that allegedly resulted in a $3.5 million payment to Hunter Biden’s firm, constitute impeachable offenses. Republicans contend that Biden’s participation was crucial to the financial success of these deals, framing it as a scheme to profit from his vice presidency.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy announced on Friday that he will appoint his former chief of staff, George Helmy, to temporarily replace convicted U.S. Senator Bob Menendez, who is resigning following his bribery conviction. Murphy emphasized that Helmy will step down once the winner of the upcoming Senate election is determined, allowing for a smooth transition. The race features Democratic Representative Andy Kim and Republican hotelier Curtis Bashaw, with Murphy stating he has discussed the situation with both candidates. Helmy, who previously served as Murphy’s chief of staff and has experience working with Senators Cory Booker and Frank Lautenberg, pledged to focus on public service during his brief term. Menendez’s conviction included charges related to corruption and bribery, and he has announced plans to appeal while confirming his resignation effective August 20.
Hashem Younis Hashem Hnaihen, a 43-year-old Jordanian man living in central Florida, has been indicted on multiple charges, including threatening to use explosives and causing significant damage to a solar power facility and several businesses perceived to support Israel. Arrested in July, Hnaihen allegedly vandalized properties while wearing a mask, leaving behind “warning letters” that outlined political demands and threats against businesses. Investigators reported that he broke into a solar facility in Wedgefield, Florida, inflicting over $700,000 in damages. U.S. Attorney Roger Handberg condemned Hnaihen’s actions as unacceptable, emphasizing that targeting businesses based on perceived beliefs is not tolerated. Hnaihen faces up to 60 years in prison and is currently detained pending trial.
In 2016, Hunter Biden sought assistance from the U.S. government to help Burisma, the Ukrainian gas company where he served on the board, expand its business into Italy while his father, Joe Biden, was vice president. Recent reports reveal that the Biden-Harris State Department released records showing Hunter’s request after years of withholding information, including a letter he sent to U.S. Ambassador to Italy John R. Phillips asking for a meeting with the president of Tuscany. This release followed a FOIA request from The New York Times and has raised questions about the thoroughness of the State Department’s search, especially since related records were found on Hunter’s laptop. Hunter is also facing trial next month for tax evasion related to his income from Burisma, and federal prosecutors may pursue additional charges under the Foreign Agents Registration Act for his lobbying activities without proper registration.
Three Jewish advocacy groups have filed a federal complaint against the Fulton County school district, alleging that the administration failed to address antisemitic bullying against Jewish and Israeli students since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war on October 7. The complaint accuses the district of fostering a hostile environment that allows antisemitism to thrive and includes instances of verbal harassment and intimidation, such as students wearing keffiyehs shouting “Free Palestine” at Jewish students. The school district denied the allegations, stating that claims of promoting or tolerating antisemitism are false. The complaint was filed under Title IV of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, and national origin, and is part of a larger trend of antisemitism complaints in schools across the country.
Year-over-year inflation in the U.S. fell to its lowest level in over three years in July, indicating a decline in the severe price increases that have impacted consumers. The Labor Department reported a 0.2% rise in consumer prices from June to July, with a yearly increase of 2.9%, down from 3% in June—the lowest since March 2021. The increase was mainly attributed to higher rental and housing costs, which are reportedly easing. Excluding food and energy, core inflation also showed a slight rise of 3.2% year-over-year. The cooling inflation trend is paving the way for the Federal Reserve to potentially cut interest rates in September, which would reduce borrowing costs for consumers and businesses.
Israel NEWS
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) recovered the bodies of six hostages kidnapped on October 7 from a tunnel in Khan Younis, Gaza, during an operation with the Israel Security Agency. The recovered individuals include Avraham Munder, Yoram Metzger, Nadav Popplewell, Yagev Buchshtav, Chaim Peri, and Alex Dancyg. As of now, 109 hostages remain in Hamas’s custody. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed condolences to the families and reiterated the commitment to return all abductees. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant called the operation a testament to the bravery and determination of IDF forces.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that Israel has accepted a proposal aimed at resolving issues preventing a ceasefire and hostage release in Gaza, urging Hamas to do the same. Following a 2.5-hour meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Blinken emphasized the importance of Hamas’s agreement and noted that negotiations will continue to clarify the implementation of the agreement, which involves “complex issues” requiring significant decisions from leaders. Hamas has expressed skepticism about U.S. mediation, accusing it of favoring Israel amid ongoing demands. Netanyahu highlighted the meeting’s constructive nature, focusing on the shared goal of maximizing hostage releases.
The IDF has demolished approximately 50 tunnels under the Philadelphi Corridor, which separates the Gaza Strip from Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, as part of efforts to dismantle Hamas’s military infrastructure. IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi affirmed the military’s readiness to maintain control of this strategically important area to prevent Hamas from resupplying itself, especially amid ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire and the release of hostages. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that any ceasefire agreement must include Israeli oversight of the corridor, reflecting its critical role in Israel’s security strategy.
El Al Israel Airlines Ltd. reported a record profit of $147.4 million for the second quarter of 2024, with revenues reaching $839 million—33% higher than the same period in 2023. This follows a first-quarter profit of $80.5 million, a significant recovery from a net loss of nearly $35 million the previous year. Additionally, El Al signed a historic agreement to purchase up to 31 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft for $2.5 billion, aiming to enhance its fleet and expand flight destinations starting in 2028. Despite criticism for increasing prices post-October 7 amid the conflict with Hamas and Hezbollah, El Al captured 62% of passenger traffic at Ben-Gurion International Airport in early 2024, up from 22% the previous year.
A 40-year-old zookeeper at Jerusalem’s Biblical Zoo was seriously injured on Sunday morning when he was attacked by a crocodile he was caring for. The crocodile charged at him, grabbing him by the face and limbs and pulling him into the water. Other zoo staff intervened to rescue him while a security guard used stun bullets on the crocodile, which later died. The zookeeper was taken to Hadassah Ein Kerem Medical Center with serious bite injuries but remained conscious. The incident, classified as a “work accident,” is under investigation by Jerusalem District Police, and zoo management stated there was no danger to visitors during the attack.
WORLD NEWS
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Ukrainian forces have taken full control of Sudzha, the largest Russian town to fall to Ukraine since the recent cross-border incursion began on August 6. This move allows Ukraine to establish a military command office in Sudzha and indicates a potential long-term presence in the Kursk region. The incursion has led to the evacuation of over 120,000 civilians in Kursk, with at least 100 Russian troops captured by Ukraine. Although Russia’s defense ministry claimed to have blocked further Ukrainian advances, questions arise about troop reallocations as some Russian forces shift to defend Kursk from the incursion. The situation has prompted evacuations in other regions, with both sides experiencing fluid front lines, contrasting with the static front lines in eastern Ukraine. Meanwhile, satellite imagery shows damage from Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian air bases, although there has been no disruption to natural gas flows through the region.
Social media platform X announced on Saturday that it will cease operations in Brazil, citing threats from Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, who allegedly threatened to arrest the company’s legal representative unless it complied with his orders. While X is removing all remaining staff in Brazil immediately, it stated that its services would still be available to Brazilians, though it did not clarify how this would work. This decision follows earlier clashes between X and de Moraes over issues of free speech and misinformation, with the company claiming that his recent orders constituted censorship. De Moraes has been known for his strict measures against misinformation and political dissent, leading to accusations of overreach from Brazil’s political right. Elon Musk, the owner of X, criticized de Moraes in a tweet, calling him “an utter disgrace to justice.”
Police in Istanbul have launched a large-scale investigation following a shooting that killed Israeli Arab businessman Abdulkadir Anas and wounded two others. Initial reports suggested political motives, but Anas’ father denied any connection to politics, asserting they are Israeli Arabs of Palestinian origin. The attack, characterized as professional due to the use of a silenced handgun, raised suspicions of possible Israeli involvement, especially since Turkey has been a haven for Hamas officials. However, the Istanbul Governor’s Office later indicated that the shooting was motivated by a financial dispute, with three suspects fleeing abroad shortly after the incident. Four arrests have been made, and two weapons were recovered. Anas’ friend remains in critical condition, while another individual, identified as a bodyguard, sustained a foot injury. Security footage captured the attack, showing the assailant approaching the victims’ car and fleeing afterward.
