New York News
Daniel Penny, a 26-year-old Marine veteran, was found not guilty of criminally negligent homicide in the death of Jordan Neely, a homeless man, following a high-profile trial that drew national attention. Penny had restrained Neely in a chokehold on a New York City subway after Neely reportedly made threatening remarks toward passengers. Jurors deliberated for nearly a week, deadlocking on the more serious manslaughter charge before ultimately acquitting Penny of the lesser charge, which carried a maximum sentence of four years.
The trial highlighted Neely’s troubled history, including an active warrant for assault and repeated psychiatric hospitalizations. Penny, in his defense, testified that he acted to protect others from Neely, who was behaving erratically. The case sparked significant public protest, with groups outside the courthouse calling for justice, while others labeled Penny a Good Samaritan. The not guilty verdict brought strong reactions from both sides, with Penny’s supporters applauding and Neely’s advocates denouncing systemic racism.
Luigi Mangione, a 26-year-old Ivy League graduate, has been charged with murder in the assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, who was fatally shot outside a Midtown Manhattan investors’ conference. Mangione was apprehended at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, after an employee recognized him from police alerts. In addition to murder, he faces charges of criminal weapon possession and document forgery. Police recovered a 3D-printed “ghost gun” and a manifesto expressing hostility toward corporate America, describing corporations as “parasites.” Investigators believe Mangione acted alone, motivated by anti-corporate sentiment. Arrested after presenting a fake ID, he later admitted his true identity and was transported to Pennsylvania court for his first appearance.
A Lubavitcher bochur was stabbed outside 1349 President Street, known as The Rubashkin House, in Crown Heights on Monday during an altercation with a known individual. The incident occurred shortly before 1:30 p.m., prompting Hatzalah to transport the victim to Kings County Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment. Crown Heights Shomrim released images of the suspect, who is familiar to the community and often attends local simchas. Shomrim clarified that the stabbing stemmed from a personal dispute and was not a terror-related incident.
Several New York state lawmakers, including Assembly Members Harvey Epstein and Eddie Gibbs and State Senator Simcha Felder, have filed to run for City Council seats in next year’s elections, seeking the potential benefits of city-level office. Epstein is running in the East Village, Felder in Brooklyn’s district currently held by Kalman Yeger (who is transitioning to the Assembly), and Gibbs in the East Harlem-Bronx district represented by term-limited Diana Ayala. The off-year election cycle allows these lawmakers to run without forfeiting their legislative seats if unsuccessful. While state office offers broader policy-making opportunities and job security due to a lack of term limits, City Council positions provide a $6,000 salary increase and significant discretionary spending power. Council members control a baseline of $760,000 for community organizations and $5 million for district capital projects, often supplemented by speaker allocations, allowing for more direct local impact. In contrast, discretionary funding in the state Legislature is smaller and less consistent, typically around $150,000 for programmatic purposes and $1 million for capital funding. This disparity is motivating some state lawmakers to pursue more locally impactful council roles.
The New York City Council approved the Adams Administration’s “City of Yes” affordable housing plan in a 31-20 vote, marking a significant step toward addressing the city’s housing crisis. The plan aims to ease restrictions on basement apartments and other barriers to housing expansion, enabling the creation of 80,000 new homes over 15 years. Council Speaker Adrienne Adams praised the decision as a move toward affordability, while Governor Kathy Hochul committed $1 billion to support the plan and emphasized the importance of zoning reforms to increase housing supply. The initiative also includes a $5 billion investment in critical infrastructure updates, underscoring a collaborative effort to tackle affordability through large-scale housing growth.
Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed a $3 billion “inflation refund” plan that would provide checks of up to $500 to New York residents under certain income thresholds, as part of her 2025 affordability agenda. Families earning less than $300,000 annually would receive $500, while individuals making under $150,000 would get $300, potentially benefiting 8.6 million residents, including 3.6 million in New York City. Hochul framed the proposal as a response to inflation-driven increases in living costs and included it in her upcoming state budget for legislative approval. The checks would be distributed in the fall if passed. The plan drew mixed reactions: some praised its focus on affordability, while others, like the Citizens Budget Commission, criticized it as a short-term fix compared to systemic tax reforms. Mayor Eric Adams has also introduced a complementary proposal to reduce or eliminate city income taxes for low earners, requiring state approval as well. Both plans highlight affordability as a priority in the upcoming legislative session.
Juan Soto has signed a record-breaking 15-year, $765 million contract with the New York Mets, including a $75 million signing bonus and no deferred payments, making it the largest deal in sports history. The agreement includes an opt-out after five years, with provisions to increase the total value to $805 million if extended. The 26-year-old superstar, known for his elite batting and plate discipline, joins a Mets team poised for championship contention after reaching the NLCS last season, beating out strong offers from rivals like the Yankees and Dodgers.
US NEWS
Democrat Adam Gray has won California’s 13th Congressional District, flipping a seat for Democrats and leaving Republicans with a narrow 220-215 majority in the House. The GOP will hold 53 Senate seats and control the presidency with Donald Trump’s victory over Kamala Harris, solidifying Republican dominance in Washington. Leadership shifts include Lisa McClain replacing Elise Stefanik as House Republican Conference chair after Stefanik’s nomination as U.N. ambassador, while Matt Gaetz resigned amid an ethics investigation and withdrew his attorney general nomination. Additional GOP vacancies are anticipated as Stefanik and Michael Waltz prepare to join Trump’s administration.
New Jersey’s decision to schedule the state’s 2025 primary elections on June 3, the same day as the Jewish holiday of Shavuot, has sparked outrage among Jewish communities. Shavuot, which commemorates the giving of the Ten Commandments, ends at sundown on June 3, and many religious Jews are unable to vote due to the observance’s restrictions. Over 60 rabbis and Jewish leaders have called for the primary to be rescheduled to avoid disenfranchising a significant portion of the state’s Jewish population, which makes up about 7% of the state’s residents. Leaders, including Rep. Josh Gottheimer, have urged the governor and legislature to change the date, and Gov. Phil Murphy has expressed willingness to work with lawmakers to shift the election.
Unexplained drone sightings have been reported over various parts of Ocean County, New Jersey, including Brick, Toms River, Point Pleasant, and Manchester. Social media posts claimed to have seen drones being followed by fighter jets, but the U.S. Air Force and local authorities confirmed that these claims were false. Police in Brick, Point Pleasant Beach, and Toms River received reports of drones flying over residential and coastal areas, but no criminal activity or public safety threats have been identified. The FBI is investigating the incidents, while Governor Phil Murphy stated there is no known threat to the public.
Lara Trump announced on X that she is stepping down as co-chair of the Republican National Committee (RNC), stating that her goals during her tenure had been achieved. She began her role in March 2024 and played a key part in Republicans regaining control of the Senate and maintaining a narrow House majority. Trump hinted at considering new political opportunities as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House, particularly the possibility of filling Florida Sen. Marco Rubio’s seat, should he be nominated as Secretary of State. She expressed her willingness to serve Florida, calling it an honor to be considered for the role.
The Lakewood area in New Jersey has become a significant hotspot for antisemitic incidents, with bias crimes against Jewish people reported at rates far exceeding the state average. The region, which is home to a large and growing Orthodox Jewish population, has seen an alarming rise in hostility and bigotry, reflected in escalating public outbursts, road rage incidents, and threats. In the six-year period from 2019 to 2024, Lakewood and its surrounding towns experienced nearly eight antisemitic incidents per 10,000 people, much higher than the statewide rate of just over three incidents per 10,000 residents. The rising incidents, which range from harassment and vandalism to more aggressive acts, have been driven in part by cultural tensions surrounding the growth of the Orthodox community in these areas.
Israel NEWS
Since the ouster of Bashar Assad on Sunday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have conducted over 300 airstrikes in Syria, marking the most intense air campaign in the country since the 1973 Yom Kippur War. These strikes, primarily targeting Syrian Air Force bases and squadrons of fighter jets, are aimed at crippling the Syrian military’s air capabilities. It is believed that the Syrian Air Force could be entirely destroyed within a few days. The IDF has focused on preventing chemical weapons and long-range missiles from falling into hostile hands, striking strategic sites like chemical weapons production facilities and missile sites. This follows Israeli concerns about Iranian-backed militias and terrorist groups gaining access to Syria’s advanced weaponry. Additionally, Israeli forces have been active in the Golan Heights, securing the region and reinforcing control over the buffer zone that was established after the 1974 Disengagement Agreement. While there have been reports of IDF ground forces advancing toward the town of Qatana, the IDF has denied any such move, stating that its operations remain confined to the buffer zone. The United States has expressed support for Israel’s actions, acknowledging the need to prevent terror groups from gaining ground near Israeli borders.
The IDF and Shin Bet security agency announced the recovery of Itay Svirsky’s body from the Gaza Strip, 14 months after he was kidnapped by Hamas and nearly a year after his death in captivity. The IDF stated that Svirsky was murdered by Hamas terrorists about four months after being taken hostage on October 7, and his body was recovered in an operation whose details are being kept confidential to protect ongoing efforts. During his captivity, Svirsky was held alongside hostages Yossi Sharabi, who was likely killed in an IDF strike, and Noa Argamani, who was rescued earlier in the year. The IDF confirmed that Svirsky did not die in an Israeli strike, contradicting claims made by Hamas. Following the recovery, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed condolences to Svirsky’s family and reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to securing the release of the remaining hostages.
A drone fired from Yemen struck a residential building in the city of Yavne, causing damage but no injuries. The Israeli Air Force (IAF) did not activate sirens in the area because the drone was not initially classified as a clear threat. According to IAF Chief Tomer Bar, the drone was flagged as suspicious and was originally set to be shot down, but concerns about it being a civilian aircraft led officials to hold off on taking action. As a result, no sirens were triggered. Following an investigation, Bar admitted that the Air Force had failed to provide proper protection and warnings to citizens, and recommended that sirens should be activated in future incidents involving suspected drones, even if they are not confirmed as threats. The Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen claimed responsibility for the attack, describing it as a “pinpoint military operation” targeting a sensitive Israeli location. The Houthis have been involved in launching various missile and drone strikes against Israel, part of the broader conflict involving Iran’s “Axis of Resistance.”
Israeli Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi launched an initiative to dismiss Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, accusing her of obstructing government policies for political reasons, citing her opposition to several key legislative and policy issues, including bills expanding police spyware use and changes to television ratings. Karhi’s proposal has gained support from 13 Cabinet members, though the Shas Party ministers have not backed it, revealing divisions within the coalition. This push is part of a broader conflict between the government and the judiciary, fueled by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s criticism of the Attorney General’s Office for approving actions by the previous government, such as the maritime border agreement with Lebanon. Baharav-Miara’s assertive stance on issues like ultra-Orthodox military draft exemptions and daycare subsidies has further strained relations, while her potential involvement in demanding the dismissal of National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir over his conduct during the ongoing war with Hamas adds another layer of tension. Amid these conflicts, the government faces public frustration over perceived legal constraints on military actions, further complicating the political and legal landscape. Karhi argues that removing Baharav-Miara is essential for Israel’s democracy, but the initiative highlights deep rifts within the coalition and an ongoing battle for judicial control.
Rabbi Meir Fendel, a pioneering educator and spiritual leader, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to Torah education and outreach. Known for establishing religious schools in areas with no prior infrastructure, such as Long Island, Rabbi Fendel played a transformative role in Orthodox day-school education under Torah Umesorah in America. His book, Nine Men Wanted for a Minyan, detailed his efforts to nurture Torah communities post-Holocaust. After immigrating to Israel, he contributed to institutions like the Ora Institute and Moriah Seminary and initiated a life-changing summer camp for Diaspora girls. Rabbi Fendel’s son, Rabbi David Fendel, heads the Sderot Yeshiva, continuing his father’s mission of spreading Torah in underserved areas. Remembered as a kind and empowering mentor, Rabbi Fendel’s impact resonates in the lives of his students and the communities he built. His funeral will be held tomorrow at Eretz Hachaim cemetery in Beit Shemesh. May his memory be a blessing.
WORLD NEWS
Syria’s long-standing leader, Bashar al-Assad, has reportedly been ousted after over two decades in power, with terrorist rebel groups, primarily Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), claiming control of the capital, Damascus. HTS, which evolved from al-Qaeda’s former Syrian branch, has rapidly seized cities across the country, including Aleppo, Hama, and Homs, in a lightning campaign. Reports suggest that Assad fled Damascus to an undisclosed location after allegedly seeking U.S. assistance to save his regime. A plane potentially carrying Assad was tracked towards Syria’s coast but later disappeared. The collapse of Assad’s rule is attributed to his allies, Russia and Iran, being militarily overstretched and unable to provide sufficient support. The rebels also claimed to have captured Saydnaya Military Prison before taking the capital. In an attempt to secure his survival, Assad had made diplomatic overtures to the U.S., seeking either a deal to remain in power or safe passage into exile. However, President-elect Donald Trump, in his statements, has emphasized that the U.S. should stay out of the conflict, suggesting that the various factions should be allowed to fight it out among themselves.
Australian officials are investigating an arson attack on the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne as a likely terrorist incident. The fire, which occurred early on Friday during overnight prayers, prompted worshippers to flee. Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Shane Patton confirmed that a joint counter-terrorism team, including Victoria Police, the Australian Federal Police (AFP), and Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), is handling the investigation. The attack is one of several antisemitic incidents in recent months, leading the Australian government to create a new task force called Operation Avalite. This force will focus on addressing threats and violence against the Jewish community. Additionally, the government has committed AU$32.5 million to bolster security at Jewish community sites across the country.
A new survey by the Jewish Medical Association of Ontario reveals that nearly one-third (31%) of Jewish medical professionals in Ontario are considering leaving Canada due to the rise in antisemitism. The survey, which included over 1,000 Jewish medical professionals across Canada, found that while only 1% experienced “severe antisemitism” before the October 7 Hamas terror attacks, 29% reported encountering some form of Jew-hatred in their communities, 39% in hospitals, and 43% in academic settings. Discrimination is significantly affecting the healthcare system, as stated by Dr. Ayelet Kuper, with potential impacts on patient care and workplace integrity. Dr. Sam Silver from Queen’s University also expressed concern about the hostile environment his students face, where their Jewish identity makes them targets of hate and exclusion.
Thousands of people participated in a peaceful demonstration in downtown London, organized by the Campaign Against Antisemitism, calling on authorities to “match their rhetoric with action against antisemitism and extremism.” The march, which moved from the Royal Courts of Justice to Parliament Square, was presented as a contrast to the violence seen at some anti-Israel protests. Organizers emphasized that the event was conducted without violence, vandalism, or terrorism-related displays. They highlighted the peaceful nature of the march through their social media, stressing that there were no attempts to breach government sites, no destructive behavior, and no hate-filled rhetoric, presenting it as a model for true peaceful protest.
