NEW YORK NEWS
During the Manhattan hush money trial against former President Donald Trump, Judge Juan Merchan cleared the courtroom following a contentious exchange involving defense witness Robert Costello. Costello, who previously advised Michael Cohen, was brought in to discredit Cohen’s testimony. However, Costello’s demeanor, including shaking his head and making audible comments in response to the judge’s rulings led to repeated objections from the prosecution and visible frustration from Judge Merchan.
When Costello rolled his eyes and sighed loudly after another sustained objection, Merchan ordered the courtroom cleared and reprimanded Costello for his lack of decorum, emphasizing the need for proper behavior in the courtroom. This incident highlights the tension and dramatic moments within the trial, as the defense attempts to challenge Cohen’s credibility, despite Cohen admitting in court to stealing $60,000 while working for Trump.
New York City police arrested 40 individuals during an anti-Israel protest in Brooklyn’s Bay Ridge neighborhood. The protest, organized by the group Within Our Lifetime, saw activists clashing with NYPD officers, resulting in some protesters being tackled and dragged away. The demonstrators, numbering around 250, expressed their solidarity with Gaza and used rhetoric suggestive of support for Hamas, a U.S.-designated terrorist organization. The group has been linked to attacks on Jews and advocates for the elimination of Israel. Protesters chanted against police expenditures and vowed to continue their efforts until the city divests from supporting Israel. This protest follows a similar demonstration the previous week, where 150 anti-Israel protesters were arrested for blocking traffic on the Manhattan Bridge to commemorate the Nakba, or catastrophe, marking Israel’s War of Independence in 1948.
The New York City Police Department is investigating an attack on two Jewish children, aged 11 and 13, that occurred on Sunday in Bedford-Stuyvesant. Video footage shows the suspect, a young man riding a Citi bike, stopping and assaulting the children on Franklin Avenue. The attacker, believed to be between 18 and 20 years old, reportedly yelled at the children to “get off the sidewalk” before violently grabbing and pushing one of them to the ground. He then continued to beat and kick the child as others scattered in fear. The suspect fled the scene on his bike, and the victims sustained minor injuries. Borough President Antonio Reynoso condemned the attack as anti-Semitic and confirmed that the Hate Crimes Task Force is investigating the incident. The NYPD has requested public assistance in identifying the suspect.
A smuggling operation utilizing drones to transport drugs across the Niagara River from Canada into upstate New York was revealed in a recently unsealed criminal complaint. The operation, discovered through a September 2022 investigation, involved one individual pleading guilty and two others facing charges. U.S. Border Patrol agents tracked a drone’s overnight journey from a U.S. neighborhood to an Ontario winery and back, ultimately intercepting a package containing approximately 6 1/2 pounds of drugs as it landed near a newly purchased house in Youngstown, New York. The residence, sparsely furnished with mattresses on the floor, was found to house multiple drones and controllers. Data from the drones indicated previous cross-border flights, with the first occurring in May 2022, shortly after the house’s purchase. Suspects from New York City and California allegedly made trips to Buffalo for the drone operations. One suspect appeared in U.S. District Court in Buffalo and was released on bond after facing drug and conspiracy charges.
US NEWS
President Joe Biden challenged former President Donald Trump to up to two debates, rejecting the proposed schedule from the nonpartisan commission and instead suggesting late June and early September for presidential debates and late July for a vice-presidential debate. Biden’s campaign cited concerns about the commission’s schedule conflicting with early voting, large audiences, and the enforcement of rules. They proposed a one-on-one format with firm time limits and a muted microphone when not speaking. Trump accepted Biden’s proposed dates but did not comment on the suggested rules. He pushed for more debates and larger venues, criticizing Biden’s policies on immigration, inflation, taxes, and foreign policy. Trump’s team proposed two additional debates, one in July and another in August, but Biden’s campaign did not immediately respond. Both candidates later accepted invitations for debates on June 27 and September 10 hosted by CNN and ABC News, respectively.
President Joe Biden implemented significant new tariffs on various Chinese imports, including electric vehicles, advanced batteries, solar cells, steel, aluminum, and medical equipment, citing unfair competition due to Chinese government subsidies. The move marks an escalation in tensions between the two largest economies, with Biden accusing China of cheating in global trade. Trump, in response, criticized Biden’s tariffs as a distraction and a weak attempt to counter his own support for domestic electric vehicle production. China condemned the tariffs as “bullying” and threatened retaliation, while Biden’s administration anticipates China’s response. The tariffs, to be phased in over three years, are primarily symbolic initially but may affect prices in specific industries. Both Biden and Trump accepted invitations for debates, with Trump proposing additional debates, amidst ongoing competition over who is tougher on China. The tariffs reflect broader tensions over economic leadership, with Biden focusing on targeted tariffs to protect industries and workers, while Trump emphasizes a broader trade war approach.
The House passed a bill rebuking President Biden for pausing a weapons shipment to Israel amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. Republicans criticized Biden for hindering support to Israel, while Democrats were divided, with some supporting unconditional aid to Israel and others questioning civilian casualties. The bill condemns Biden’s decision and would withhold funding until the weapons are delivered. Biden threatened to veto the bill, and Democratic leadership worked to sway members against it. Despite this, 16 Democrats joined Republicans in passing the bill, reflecting bipartisan concern over U.S. policy towards Israel.
President Biden invoked executive privilege over audio tapes of his discussions with special counsel Robert Hur, where Biden appeared confused about key facts related to his biography and handling of classified information. The tapes were sought by House Republicans, who argue they’re crucial for oversight. Republicans suggest Biden may have exaggerated confusion to avoid accountability. In response, the House Judiciary Committee voted to hold Attorney General Garland in contempt of Congress for withholding the tapes. This move reflects broader tensions over transparency and executive authority.
Police dispersed a pro-Palestinian encampment at the University of Michigan, citing safety concerns after fake body bags were placed on a school official’s lawn. The encampment, set up in April, was cleared with officers using irritants, leading to building closures and disruptions. Demonstrators demanded the school’s endowment stop investing in companies linked to Israel, but the university claims minimal investment ties. Similar protests have emerged nationwide, with tensions escalating since a crackdown at Columbia University. Drexel University in Philadelphia also threatened to clear an encampment, prompting lockdowns and disruptions to campus activities.
Loay Alnaji, a professor at Moorpark College, is set to face trial on charges of involuntary manslaughter and battery in connection with the death of Paul Kessler, a Jewish protester. The incident occurred during clashes between pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian demonstrators in Thousand Oaks, California, last November. Prosecutors allege that Alnaji struck Kessler with a megaphone, causing him to fall and sustain fatal injuries. Despite claims of self-defense, Alnaji was indicted based on evidence including DNA analysis and video footage from Kessler’s phone. While no hate crime charges have been filed, the case has sparked debate over the events leading to Kessler’s tragic death. Alnaji, out on bail, awaits his arraignment and could face a maximum sentence of four years in prison if convicted.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott granted a full pardon to Daniel Perry, a U.S. Army sergeant who had been convicted of killing a Black Lives Matter protester in Travis County. Perry, armed with an AK-47, maintained that he acted in self-defense during the encounter. Despite his conviction, Perry immediately called 911 and surrendered to law enforcement. The pardon followed an exhaustive review by the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles, which considered Perry’s personal history, the circumstances of the incident, and trial testimony. Governor Abbott highlighted Texas’s robust “Stand Your Ground” law, emphasizing that self-defense rights cannot be overruled by a jury or district attorney. Lead detective David Fugitt accused District Attorney Jose Garza of obstructing exculpatory evidence, alleging unethical and potentially criminal behavior. Fugitt claimed that Garza’s office directed him to remove key evidence from his presentation to the grand jury, casting doubt on the fairness of Perry’s trial.
The Dow Jones industrial average achieved a historic milestone, closing above 40,000 for the first time on Friday. This accomplishment was accompanied by gains in other major indexes, including the S&P 500 and Nasdaq, which recorded their fourth consecutive week of increases. The Dow’s ascent to this new high was supported by positive corporate earnings and economic data, fueling investor expectations for interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve later in the year. For the week, the Dow gained 1.2%, the S&P 500 rose 1.5%, and the Nasdaq climbed 2.1%. Market analysts noted a cautious sentiment prevailing on Friday, attributing it to the recent record highs and consecutive weeks of gains. Traders are currently pricing in a 68% probability of the Fed implementing its first rate cut in September, according to the CME FedWatch Tool.
U.S. wholesale prices surged in April, indicating persistent inflationary pressures following three months of elevated consumer price readings. The Labor Department’s producer price index rose by 0.5% from March to April, marking a rebound from the previous month’s decline, with year-over-year prices increasing by 2.2%, the largest jump in a year. Excluding volatile food and energy categories, underlying inflation also saw a notable uptick of 0.5%, suggesting future inflation trends. While some wholesale prices declined, including airfares and food costs, the overall increase raises concerns on Wall Street and at the Federal Reserve, with economists closely watching upcoming consumer inflation data for further insights into inflationary trends and their impact on economic policies and consumer confidence.
Israel NEWS
The International Criminal Court (ICC) requested arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and top Hamas leaders for alleged war crimes in Gaza. Israeli officials condemned the move, calling it hypocritical and anti-Semitic, while vowing to ignore the warrants. Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett accused the ICC of supporting terrorism and urged nations to defund it. The ICC prosecutor accused Israeli officials of intentionally targeting civilians, while also levying charges against Hamas leaders for crimes including hostage-taking and torture. U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham criticized the ICC’s credibility, citing previous attempts to pursue charges against American soldiers in Afghanistan.
Benny Gantz, a member of Israel’s War Cabinet, threatened to resign from the government unless a new plan for the Gaza war is adopted within three weeks. His proposed six-point plan includes the return of hostages, ending Hamas rule, demilitarizing Gaza, and establishing international civilian administration. Gantz’s ultimatum highlights divisions within Israel’s leadership over the handling of the ongoing conflict. Netanyahu faces pressure from hard-liners advocating for a military offensive against Hamas, while international concerns over civilian casualties and humanitarian crisis in Gaza add complexity to the situation. Talks for a ceasefire have made little progress, and the conflict, which began with an attack by Hamas in October, has claimed thousands of lives on both sides.
A recent survey indicates that a majority of Israeli right-wing voters support the dismissal of Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over his proposal to hand over control of Gaza to a Palestinian alternative to Hamas. Gallant’s suggestion, which contrasts with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s stance of maintaining Israeli security control over Gaza, has sparked controversy within the coalition government. While Netanyahu emphasizes the need for ongoing security control to prevent the rise of another terrorist regime, Gallant advocates for political action involving Palestinian entities. The debate reflects broader divisions within Israeli politics regarding the future governance of Gaza following potential conflict resolution.
Israel’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced that Israel would terminate its free trade agreement with Turkey and impose 100% tariffs on Turkish imports. This decision came in response to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s move to halt exports to Israel earlier in the month, citing the situation in Gaza as justification. Israeli officials criticized Erdoğan for disregarding trade agreements and accused him of acting against Turkish citizens’ interests. Despite claims of easing trade restrictions, tensions between the two nations persist, fueled by Turkey’s support for Hamas following the Oct. 7 attack.
Israel and Guatemala have signed an agreement to enhance scientific and technological cooperation between the two nations, strengthening bilateral ties amidst global calls for boycotting Israel due to its conflict with Hamas. The accord, signed in Guatemala City, aims to promote collaboration in agriculture, water management, and artificial intelligence, including the exchange of researchers and scientists. This agreement reflects Israel’s strategy to expand its scientific and innovation influence while fostering relations with countries like Guatemala. Guatemala’s historical friendship with Israel, dating back to its recognition of Israel in 1947 and its relocation of its embassy to Jerusalem in 2018, further underscores the significance of this cooperation.
In the first quarter of 2024, Israel’s economy rebounded strongly with a 14.1% annualized growth rate, following a contraction of 21.7% in the previous quarter due to the war initiated by Hamas in October 2023. This recovery was driven by increased private spending and investment, particularly in the residential sector. Despite the growth, private consumption and investment levels remained below pre-war levels due to ongoing security concerns. Additionally, the annual inflation rate rose to 2.8% in April, slightly higher than expectations but within the government’s target range of 1-3%. These economic indicators may delay potential rate cuts by the Bank of Israel, with forecasts suggesting around 2% growth for 2024 if the conflict remains contained.
WORLD NEWS
A helicopter crash in Azerbaijan resulted in the fatalities of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, both notorious for their roles in human rights violations and backing terrorist activities. Raisi, dubbed the “Butcher of Tehran,” was implicated in the 1988 mass execution of thousands of prisoners, earning him international condemnation. Similarly, Amir-Abdollahian was a close associate of Qassem Soleimani, the prominent Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps commander known for orchestrating terrorist operations. Despite their demise, the incident is unlikely to prompt significant change in the Middle East’s political landscape, as the Ayatollahs retain ultimate control over Iran’s leadership and governance. Meanwhile, reactions from global entities, such as the European Union expressing condolences, have stirred controversy, highlighting moral dilemmas regarding condolences extended to leaders accused of human rights abuses and supporting terrorism.
Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico showed signs of improvement in his health following a second surgery after being shot in an assassination attempt. Deputy Minister Robert Kalinak noted positive developments in Fico’s condition, stating that although conscious, the prime minister still faced challenges due to his severe injuries. Fico underwent emergency surgery to address critical wounds, with doctors removing infected tissue in the latest procedure. Due to the severity of his injuries, Fico’s transfer to Bratislava was delayed. In Pezinok, another Slovak city, the suspect’s custody was extended over concerns of potential escape and ongoing criminal activities.
German authorities banned the pro-Palestinian group Palestine Solidarity Duisburg for alleged support of Hamas, accusing it of promoting anti-Israeli and anti-Semitic views. The ban followed police raids on the group’s properties in North-Rhine Westphalia, where laptops, cash, cell phones, and documents were confiscated. The group had organized rallies against the delivery of weapons to Israel and had been under authorities’ scrutiny since May 2023.
