New York News
Federal agents conducted a series of coordinated raids targeting key figures in New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ inner circle, including First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright, Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Phil Banks, and NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban.
These actions are part of a broader federal corruption investigation focusing on influence peddling and potential ties to the nightlife industry. During the searches of their homes, investigators seized a range of electronic devices and other evidence. Additionally, federal authorities issued subpoenas for phones belonging to other high-ranking officials, including Timothy Pearson and Caban’s twin brother, all of whom complied with the requests. Although the mayor and his staff are not considered targets of the investigation, and no charges have been filed, Mayor Adams has publicly stated his administration’s commitment to adhering to the law and cooperating with the inquiry. The investigation does not appear to be related to previous allegations concerning Adams accepting donations from Turkey.
Muhammad Shahzeb Khan, a 20-year-old from Pakistan, was arrested for plotting an ISIS-inspired attack targeting Jewish people at a Brooklyn Jewish center on the anniversary of Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on Israel. Khan, who had been sharing ISIS propaganda online, attempted to travel from Canada to New York to carry out the attack but was stopped near the U.S. border. He communicated with undercover FBI agents about his plans and sought weapons to carry out the attack. Khan faces charges of attempting to provide material support to ISIS and could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
The Queens-Midtown Tunnel temporarily shut down after a contractor accidentally drilled a hole into the roof of one of the tubes, causing water from the East River to leak into the south tube. The MTA quickly plugged the leak and reopened the tunnel later that evening, assuring the public that it is safe to use while they work on a permanent fix. The hole, caused by investigative drilling for the upcoming East River Esplanade Project, led to significant traffic disruptions during the evening commute, though no injuries or vehicle damage were reported. Authorities are investigating the incident.
Brooklyn’s all-female EMT corps, Ezras Nashim, composed of ultra-Orthodox Jewish women, is expanding its services despite opposition from the traditional male-run Hatzalah EMT squad. Since receiving its ambulance license in 2020, the group has responded to 1,500 calls across several New York neighborhoods, offering critical care and support to women, including those from Muslim and African communities. Their expansion comes after overcoming resistance, including an initial denial of their first ambulance application. Now, with Advanced Life Support certification, Ezras Nashim is equipped to provide more comprehensive medical care. The team aims to grow further, with requests for services from cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, and Florida.
US NEWS
The University of Maryland revoked a permit for pro-Palestinian groups Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) and Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP) to hold a vigil on the one-year anniversary of the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel, after Jewish groups raised concerns that the event could glorify the killings. The university decided to limit commemorations to official events promoting reflection, citing the sensitivity of the date, which marks the murder of 1,200 Israelis by Hamas. Jewish groups welcomed the decision, while SJP and JVP expressed anger, accusing the university of succumbing to “Zionist pressure” and defending their right to mourn Palestinian lives lost in Gaza. The move reflects broader tensions surrounding the memorialization of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
The father of a 14-year-old boy suspected of killing four people during a shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia, was arrested and charged with murder for allowing his son access to a weapon. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) charged the father with four counts of involuntary manslaughter, two counts of second-degree murder, and eight counts of cruelty to children, stating he knowingly allowed his son to possess the weapon. The suspected shooter, charged with four felony counts of murder, is expected to be tried as an adult. The victims included two students and two teachers. Nine others were injured before the shooter was stopped by a school resource officer. This case follows a similar incident in Michigan, where parents were convicted for their child’s involvement in a school shooting. The FBI had previously received tips about the suspect but lacked probable cause for an arrest.
Residents of Springfield, Ohio, are expressing outrage over the recent influx of up to 20,000 Haitian immigrants, which has strained city services, worsened the housing crisis, and caused a variety of social issues. Many residents have voiced concerns at city commission meetings, citing incidents of migrants killing and eating park animals, shoplifting, and contributing to unsafe conditions. The influx has also overwhelmed welfare services, with some locals unable to access Medicaid or other assistance. A tragic accident involving a Haitian migrant without a valid driver’s license led to the death of an 11-year-old boy, intensifying public anger. Housing costs have surged, displacing some long-time residents, and local schools and healthcare services are facing increased pressure. While the Biden-Harris administration granted temporary legal status to thousands of Haitians due to instability in Haiti, some residents claim the town has been overwhelmed and are questioning who is looking out for the safety and well-being of Springfield’s citizens.
A Maryland resident named Rasheed Adedokun, 35, was arrested outside the Israeli embassy in Washington, D.C., after causing a bomb scare by allegedly throwing a backpack over the diplomatic compound’s fence. The U.S. Secret Service and the Metropolitan Police Department’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team responded, but the bomb squad declared the area safe. Adedokun, with a lengthy criminal history, was arrested for unlawful entry. He has prior convictions, including a 2016 prison sentence for identity theft and credit-card fraud, and has been involved in other legal issues, including a recent trespassing and disorderly conduct case in Maryland.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has imposed a total fine of $49 million on six major credit rating agencies for significant failures in maintaining electronic communications, violating federal recordkeeping laws. Moody’s Investor Services and S&P Global Ratings received the largest penalties of $20 million each, while Fitch Ratings was fined $8 million. A.M. Best Rating Services was fined $1 million, HR Ratings de México $250,000, and Demotech $100,000. The SEC’s investigation revealed that employees at Moody’s communicated about credit ratings using personal devices like text messages and WhatsApp, bypassing required recordkeeping practices. The firms, except A.M. Best and Demotech, must hire compliance consultants and review their electronic communication retention policies. Both A.M. Best and Demotech were noted for their significant efforts to comply with regulations and cooperate during the investigation. Moody’s and S&P expressed their commitment to maintaining regulatory obligations and improving their practices following the settlement.
Alaska has taken a significant step to combat antisemitism and protect religious institutions with the signing of House Bill 238 by Governor Mike Dunleavy. The new law, enacted at a ceremony held at the Lubavitch Jewish Center in Anchorage, elevates the offense of vandalizing houses of worship from a misdemeanor to a felony. This change increases potential penalties from up to one year in jail and a $25,000 fine to as much as five years in prison and a $50,000 fine. Rabbi Mendy Greenberg expressed hope that the heightened penalties will deter individuals from targeting religious sites, aiming to prevent such acts of vandalism through the prospect of more severe consequences.
Legendary actor James Earl Jones, celebrated for his iconic voice work as Darth Vader in the “Star Wars” franchise and notable roles in films like Field of Dreams, has passed away at the age of 93. His representative confirmed his death on Monday at his home in Dutchess County, NY, although the cause has not been disclosed. Born in 1931 in Arkabutla, Mississippi, Jones enjoyed a remarkable career spanning over 60 years, achieving the prestigious EGOT status with two Primetime Emmys, a Grammy Award, an Honorary Oscar, and three Tony Awards. He made his Broadway debut in 1958, and in 2022, the Cort Theatre was renamed the James Earl Jones Theater in his honor. Jones’s extensive TV credits include roles in “Roots,” “The Atlanta Child Murders,” and guest appearances on series like “Picket Fences” and “The Simpsons.” He is fondly remembered not only for his portrayal of Darth Vader but also as King Mufasa in Disney’s “The Lion King” and King Jaffe Joffer in “Coming to America.” In addition to receiving an Honorary Academy Award in 2011, he was honored with a Kennedy Center Honor and a Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award. He is survived by his son, Flynn Earl Jones, from his marriage to Cecelia Hart, who passed away in 2016.
Israel NEWS
The Israeli Cabinet has approved Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s proposal to allocate 320 million shekels (about $86 million) for memorializing the October 7 massacre by Hamas and the subsequent Swords of Iron War, establishing a national commemoration authority. The initial investment will be 190 million shekels ($51 million) for the first phase, followed by 130 million shekels ($35 million) in the second phase, aimed at developing and preserving heritage infrastructure from 2024 to 2028. State ceremonies are planned to mark the one-year anniversary of the massacre, with an annual commemoration set for the 24th of Tishrei, distinct from Remembrance Day for Fallen Soldiers and Victims of Terrorism. This year’s ceremonies will take place on October 27, emphasizing the importance of honoring those affected by the tragedy.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated that the Hamas terror group is no longer capable of maintaining an organized military force in the Gaza Strip after more than 11 months of conflict. He noted that Hamas is now engaged in guerrilla warfare while Israel continues to pursue its leaders and fighters. Gallant made these comments as part of discussions about a potential ceasefire agreement aimed at securing the release of the remaining hostages taken during the conflict in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. He emphasized the importance of returning the hostages and the strategic opportunity that such an agreement presents for improving Israel’s security situation, especially given ongoing threats from Iran’s regional proxies like Hezbollah. Gallant also highlighted that the mission against Hamas would continue for years, targeting those responsible for atrocities committed against Israelis during the war that began on October 7. As operations in Gaza wind down, he indicated that Israel’s focus would shift toward the northern border with Lebanon.
Jerusalem has denied a proposed visit to the Gaza Strip by Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, as reported by Israel’s Kan public broadcaster. Although Egypt was prepared to facilitate Abbas’s entry through the Rafah border crossing, it required Israel’s approval, which was not granted. An Arab diplomat confirmed that Ramallah sought assistance from both Israel and Egypt for the visit. Egypt is interested in strengthening its influence in Gaza and preparing for the Palestinian Authority to regain control of the territory post-war. Abbas has not visited Gaza since Hamas took control of the area in 2007.
Israel achieved remarkable success at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, winning a total of 10 medals, including four golds, marking its best performance in two decades. This achievement follows the Israeli athletes’ record-breaking seven Olympic medals in Paris earlier this summer. Israel’s medal count surpassed the nine medals won at the Tokyo Games three years ago and is the highest since 2004 when the country secured 13 medals at the Athens Paralympics. Notably, swimmer Ami Dadaon contributed four medals, and Israel made history by earning its first Paralympic medals in taekwondo and goalball, the latter being its first medal in a team sport in 36 years. The games took place amid the ongoing war against Hamas in Gaza, and despite facing threats and boycotts, the athletes’ success provided a boost to Israeli morale during a tense summer marked by concerns over potential attacks from Iran and Hezbollah, as well as the situation of hostages held in Gaza.
WORLD NEWS
A new bus route designed to enhance safety for Jewish residents in North London has been launched, with the 310 service connecting Golders Green and Stamford Hill, marking the first direct link between these neighborhoods with significant Jewish populations. This initiative, prompted by a “longstanding request from residents” in response to rising antisemitism, fulfills a promise made by London Mayor Sadiq Khan earlier this year to address safety concerns. Transport officials describe the 310 as a “safe, accessible, sustainable, and affordable form of public transport” specifically aimed at providing secure travel for community members who may feel vulnerable on other public transportation. The route, which runs across five boroughs—Hackney, Barnet, Islington, Camden, and Haringey—will be evaluated through a 12-month public consultation to gather feedback and inform future service plans. Khan expressed his satisfaction with the launch, highlighting its significance in supporting local residents and contributing to a safer, fairer London for everyone.
Police in Munich fatally shot an 18-year-old gunman near the Israeli Consulate on Thursday, suspecting he was planning an attack coinciding with the 52nd anniversary of the 1972 Munich Olympics massacre. The incident occurred shortly after 9 a.m. when officers, alerted to a person carrying a gun in the Karolinenplatz area, exchanged fire with the suspect after he shot at them. He was armed with an old long gun and a bayonet, and died at the scene; no officers or bystanders were injured. Bavarian Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann stated that the attack likely targeted the consulate, while investigators noted that the suspect had a history of extremist behavior and was known to authorities in Austria for threats and possible ties to a terror organization. The Israeli Consulate was closed for a memorial ceremony at the time, and Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed shared condemnation with German officials regarding the incident. Local authorities emphasized their commitment to protecting Jewish and Israeli institutions in the area.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reportedly ordered the execution of 20 to 30 officials for their alleged failure to prevent devastating flooding and landslides that resulted in approximately 4,000 deaths during the summer, according to South Korean media. Following his tour of the affected areas in Chagang province, Kim demanded strict punishment for the officials, citing corruption and dereliction of duty. While specific identities of the executed officials were not disclosed, it was noted that Kang Bong-hoon, the provincial party committee secretary, was dismissed during an emergency meeting regarding the disaster. The North Korean Central News Agency had previously reported Kim’s directives for accountability after the flooding, which displaced over 15,000 people. Although the executions have not been independently verified, reports indicate a high frequency of such punitive actions in North Korea, with estimates suggesting at least 100 executions occurred last year.
