Israel Vows to Maintain Gaza Siege Until Hostages are Released, Inflation Expected to Cool, and Negotiations Between Hollywood Actors and Studios Suspended
Israel has declared that it will continue its siege of Gaza until the release of hostages. The country’s energy minister, Israel Katz, stated that no humanitarian aid will be provided to Gaza until the kidnapped Israelis are returned home. This includes the withholding of electricity, water, fuel, and other essential supplies. Katz emphasized that Israel will not be lectured on morals while holding hostages. Reports indicate that between 100 and 150 people have been kidnapped by Hamas, and 97 families have been notified of their loved ones’ capture.
Aid organizations have raised concerns about the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Israel’s complete blockade has cut off vital supplies, resulting in a shortage of fuel, food, water, and electricity. The situation has been exacerbated by Israel’s intense airstrikes, which have displaced over a quarter million people. To show support, Secretary of State Antony Blinken has arrived in Tel Aviv and met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Blinken is also scheduled to meet with regional leaders in the coming days.
In other news, tensions continue to rise along Israel’s borders. Gun distribution posts have opened near the country’s border with Lebanon, allowing Israelis who are authorized to bear arms to acquire guns. Iran’s foreign minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, will be visiting Lebanon in response to recent events. Iran is a known supporter of the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, which has been exchanging fire with Israel since Hamas’ attack. Additionally, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, two Palestinians were killed by Israeli settlers near the town of Qusra. This incident occurred during the funeral of four Palestinians who were previously killed by settlers and Israeli soldiers.
Turning to economic news, the latest figures are expected to reveal a cooling of inflation. The US government is projected to report a 0.2% increase in overall consumer prices compared to August and a 3.6% rise from a year ago. Core inflation, which excludes energy and food prices, is anticipated to be up 4.1% from September 2021. While this is an improvement from the peak of 9.1% in mid-2022, it does not indicate a decrease in prices, but rather a slower rate of increase. Notably, gas prices are expected to continue falling. These inflation figures are particularly significant as interest rates are at their highest levels in two decades. The Federal Reserve will announce any changes to interest rates at the beginning of the next month.
In political news, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise has been nominated by Republicans to be the next speaker of the House. However, a floor vote has yet to be scheduled. Scalise still needs the support of at least 217 Republicans in order to secure the position. Negotiations between the union representing Hollywood actors and major studios have been suspended. The trade association for the studios stated that the gap between the two groups is too large to bridge. Actors have been on strike since mid-July due to failed contract negotiations regarding pay raises and protections related to artificial intelligence.
In the healthcare sector, community health centers across the US are facing delays in receiving Covid vaccine shipments. Despite the approval of updated booster shots, some clinics have not received any vaccines, while others have limited supplies. This shortage has forced clinics to prioritize individuals at the highest risk of severe illness. However, even when vaccines are available, some individuals are hesitant to be vaccinated.
In other news, a winning Powerball ticket worth $1.73 billion was sold in California, marking the second-largest jackpot in the game’s history. President Joe Biden has filed paperwork to appear on the Nevada Democratic primary ballot, formalizing his 2024 candidacy. Donald Trump’s lawyers have requested that the classified documents trial be postponed until after the 2024 election. Additionally, a group of House Republicans from New York will introduce a resolution to expel Rep. George Santos from Congress following his indictment on additional charges, including identity theft.
Finally, concerns have been raised about the use of drones over packed stadiums. Recent incidents involving drones flying over sporting events have raised security concerns among lawmakers and sports league executives. The potential risks of injury and death have prompted calls for increased drone regulation and security measures.
That’s all for today’s Morning Rundown. Stay informed with our curated newsletter, sign up here.
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