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Escalation in Middle East Tensions
Just yesterday, the U.S. Central Command reported a new wave of hostilities involving the U.S. and Iran. Iranian missile attacks targeted U.S. forces in the Middle East around 6 p.m. ET. Fortunately, all missiles were intercepted. This prompted a response from both U.S. and Saudi forces, who launched retaliatory strikes on Iranian-backed militias in Iraq. This marks a notable involvement from Saudi Arabia in the ongoing conflict. The events coincided with President Trump’s meetings at the White House with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Ukrainian leader Zelenskyy, during which Netanyahu aimed to repair strained U.S.-Israel relations.
- 🎧 Five months into a war Israel and the U.S. launched together, both sides face conflicting priorities, NPR’s Franco Ordoñez tells Up First. Israel wants to continue fighting to address security threats from Iran and Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon. Israel does not want Trump to sign any agreement that would hinder its ability to defend itself, Ordoñez says. Trump supports maintaining Israel’s security, but seeks a swift end to an unpopular war. He also wants to open the Strait of Hormuz and tackle rising gas prices. Michael O’Hanlon of the Brookings Institution tells Ordoñez that Trump and Netanyahu have a cooperative relationship, complicated by the fact that neither side knows how to end the conflict.
Fauci to Testify on COVID-19 Origins
Dr. Anthony Fauci is scheduled to appear before a Senate committee today as part of the ongoing probe into the origins of COVID-19. This hearing comes after years of debate over whether the virus originated from a Chinese lab. Despite this controversy, the prevailing scientific consensus is that COVID-19 spread from animals to humans. Prior to the hearing, Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., published several diary entries allegedly written by Fauci, claiming they highlight inconsistencies between his public statements and private writings. Though initially removed, these entries have been reposted with redactions. Fauci’s legal representatives have accused Paul of conducting a “years-long public crusade” against him.
Federal Reserve Meets on Interest Rates
The Federal Reserve’s rate-setting committee is convening today to discuss potential changes to interest rates. Kevin Warsh, who recently assumed the role of Fed chairman, previously emphasized a commitment to curbing inflation. Although a rate hike was anticipated following a June meeting, easing inflation last month might influence the Fed to keep rates unchanged for now.
Iowa’s Water Quality at the Forefront of Election Debate
Iowa’s water quality has become a significant issue in the state’s gubernatorial race, potentially impacting the November midterm elections. The state holds the second-highest cancer rate in the U.S., as reported by the Iowa Cancer Registry, with rates on the rise. Both candidates, Democrat Rob Sand and Republican Zach Lahn, are addressing concerns over water quality, emphasizing voluntary and incentivized improvements. However, some farmers argue these measures are inadequate, and discussions with both candidates are underway.
Today’s Listen
Conductor Dalia Stasevska showcases her Ukrainian heritage with her latest album, Ukrainian Mixtape. The project, which took over a year to complete, highlights underappreciated Ukrainian composers. Stasevska attributes their obscurity to Ukraine’s history of cultural suppression. Her work aims to help Ukrainians reconnect with their cultural legacy. Hear snippets of the album and learn more about its impact here.
Picture Show
Wildfires have wreaked havoc in Spain and France, displacing hundreds of thousands. The Gironde region in France has experienced unprecedented destruction, burning an area four times the size of Paris. Climate change is intensifying fire seasons across Europe, the continent warming at more than twice the global average. Explore images of the devastation and recovery.
3 Things to Know Before You Go
- FIFA is considering selling stakes in the World Cup to private investors, aiming to manage commercial rights through a separate company. Learn more.
- Celebrated artist Betye Saar, known for her work addressing Black identity and women’s issues, has passed away just shy of her 100th birthday. Read about her legacy.
- Denver’s “Potato Palooza” saw residents quickly claim 21 tons of potatoes in a mere 90 minutes. (via Denverite)
This newsletter was edited by Suzanne Nuyen.
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