Morning Rundown: Reasons for Israel’s Possible Delay in Ground Invasion and Emerging Fourth Contender for Speaker

Headline: Hospitals in Gaza Struggle as Fuel Runs Out; Netanyahu’s Silence on Ground Invasion Raises Questions

Subtitle 1: Gaza healthcare system under strain, U.N. warns of potential halt in operations

Subtitle 2: Fourth GOP speaker nominee emerges, House chaos ensues

Subtitle 3: Off-duty pilot allegedly attempts to shut down plane mid-flight after taking magic mushrooms

Subtitle 4: Drone attacks on U.S. bases in Iraq, Syria injure military personnel

Subtitle 5: Mitt Romney reflects on Trump’s rise in new book

Subtitle 6: New research shows short bursts of exercise can counteract the harmful effects of prolonged sitting

In Gaza, hospitals are facing a crisis as fuel supplies run out, putting the already strained healthcare system at risk of halting operations. The United Nations has issued warnings about the dire situation, highlighting the urgent need for assistance.

Amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s silence on a potential ground invasion in Gaza has raised questions. Following Hamas militants’ acts of terror, Israel declared war and launched airstrikes on Gaza, leading to heightened tensions. However, Netanyahu has not presented an exit plan for Israeli forces, complicating the situation. Pressure from American officials to minimize civilian casualties is also a factor, as a ground invasion could pose risks to both Israeli soldiers and the hostages held by Hamas.

Meanwhile, in the United States, the chaos continues in the House of Representatives as a fourth GOP speaker nominee, Mike Johnson of Louisiana, emerges. The previous three nominees have failed to secure the required 217 Republican votes for the leadership role. Without a speaker, important bills cannot be voted on, including funding measures and the Biden administration’s request for aid to Israel and Ukraine. As the impasse drags on, rivalries and mistrust have intensified within the GOP.

In a shocking incident, an off-duty pilot has been accused of attempting to shut down a plane mid-flight. Joseph Emerson, facing more than 80 counts of attempted murder, pleaded not guilty. The FBI is investigating whether he was under the influence, as Emerson admitted to taking magic mushrooms and experiencing sleep deprivation at the time of the incident. Pilots who were present during the flight stated that the engines were moments away from being cut off. The case raises concerns about airline safety and the influence of substances on pilots’ judgment.

In Iraq and Syria, drone attacks targeting U.S. bases have left 24 military personnel wounded. The attacks, which took place last week, were confirmed by U.S. Central Command. Al-Tanf military base in southern Syria and al-Asad base in western Iraq were targeted in separate incidents. The attacks come amid escalating tensions in the region, particularly due to the ongoing conflict in Israel.

Reflecting on former President Donald Trump’s rise within the Republican Party, Senator Mitt Romney has published a book titled “Romney: A Reckoning.” In the book, Romney explores the decline of the modern Republican Party and attempts to understand how it happened. This analysis sheds light on the perspectives of key individuals who witnessed Trump’s political ascent.

New research reveals that even short bursts of exercise, as little as 22 minutes per day, can counteract the harmful effects of prolonged sitting. The study, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, emphasizes the importance of incorporating physical activity into daily routines to reduce the risk of premature death from any cause. Scientists recommend activities such as brisk walks or gardening to get moving, even amid busy schedules.

In other news, highlights from yesterday’s political events include President Joe Biden not appearing on the primary ballot in New Hampshire, Michael Cohen testifying in his civil fraud trial against Donald Trump, former Trump lawyer Jenna Ellis accepting a plea deal in the Georgia election interference case, and the Democratic National Committee’s decision to exclude Biden from the New Hampshire primary ballot for the upcoming election cycle.

Lastly, a staff pick delves into the internet’s obsession with a 200-year-old vampire character from a video game. The character, Astarion, has captured the attention of many not just for his appearance but also for the deeper themes related to trauma and abuse. The article highlights how this virtual character resonates with abuse survivors, making them feel seen and understood.