Morning Rundown: U.S. commits to ongoing aid to Gaza; potential candidates for House speaker emerge.

Israel Increases Airstrikes on Gaza as U.S. Promises Aid Following Call with Israeli Prime Minister

Israel has escalated its airstrikes on the Gaza Strip as the U.S. vows to continue providing aid through the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt. The promise was made during a call between President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Though health officials have warned that more aid is needed to address the crisis, the opening of the border crossing has raised diplomatic hopes in the midst of the conflict. The Israeli military has also reported that 222 hostages, including foreign nationals, are being held in Gaza.

While Israel has refrained from launching a ground assault on Gaza, it has urged civilians to evacuate their homes as the aerial bombardments intensify. The U.S. is increasing its military presence in the Middle East to prevent further conflict, amid clashes at the Lebanon border and reports of an Egyptian position being mistakenly struck by an Israeli tank.

Speaker of the House Race Heats Up as Nine New Candidates Join

Nine new candidates have entered the race for Speaker of the House following the collapse of Rep. Jim Jordan’s bid after he lost a vote of confidence at a closed-door meeting of Republicans. Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik announced the new candidates, who will make their cases before the Republican Conference on Monday evening. An internal conference vote is expected on Tuesday morning, with Speaker Pro Tem Patrick McHenry aiming to move to a floor vote as soon as possible.

Fatal Stabbing of Synagogue President Not Labeled as Antisemitic, Says Detroit Police

The Detroit police have stated that there is no evidence linking the fatal stabbing of a synagogue president, Samantha Woll, to antisemitism. The police received a call reporting an unresponsive person on the ground at Woll’s home, where they discovered multiple stab wounds and a trail of blood leading to the crime scene. Woll led the congregation of Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue, and a funeral was held over the weekend. The investigation is ongoing.

Iranian Teen Declared Brain-Dead After Alleged Attack by Morality Police

A teenage girl in Iran, Armita Gerevand, has been declared brain-dead after an incident on public transport. Iranian state media reported that she fell into a coma on October 1 after a “severe physical assault” by government agents at a subway station. The attack was allegedly prompted by her violation of the country’s strict Islamic dress code. Iranian authorities have denied the altercation and claimed that she fainted due to low blood pressure and hit her head.

Quick Updates in Politics

– Abortion rights are being emphasized in the gubernatorial race in Kentucky to support Governor Andy Beshear’s reelection campaign.

– Muslim and Arab-Americans in Michigan, who played a critical role in President Biden’s victory, are expressing concern over his unwavering support for Israel, potentially impacting their support in the future.

– Employers are creating lists of potentially risky destinations for staff to visit during work trips due to abortion restrictions and anti-LGBTQ laws.

Staff Pick: Unveiling the Dangers of Hamas’ Tunnels

Military experts warn that Israeli soldiers may face danger and confusion when invading Gaza due to the complex and perilous underground tunnels developed by Hamas. Investigative reporter Laura Strickler explores the history and challenges faced by soldiers in these tunnels.