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Student sues Columbia for not following own policies

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By Batya Jerenberg, World Israel News

A Jewish student filed a class-action lawsuit Monday against Columbia University for its failure to abide by its own policies and safeguard its students’ right to safety and equal access to education.

C.S. alleged that there is an “extreme element” among the anti-Israel protestors who have been roiling the campus for months who are “not just expressing dissent; they have and are continuing to commit acts of violence, they are intimidating and harassing Jewish students and faculty members, they are inciting demonstrators to engage in hate speech and also commit acts of violence, which has been taking place, and they have even called for terrorist attacks against the United States and the State of Israel.”

The sophomore specifically noted the violations of Columbia’s Code of Conduct at the tent protest that began 12 days ago.

“Since its formation, the encampment has been the center of round-the-clock harassment of Jewish students, who have been punched, shoved, spat upon, blocked from attending classes and moving freely about campus, and targeted by pro-terrorist hate speech,” the lawsuit said.

Instead of removing the illegal encampment, the administration said that students who don’t feel safe on campus can learn remotely. This discriminates against the law-abiding, Jewish students, the lawsuit said.

They get “a second-class education where they are relegated to their homes to attend classes virtually, stripped of the opportunity to interact meaningfully with other students and faculty and sit for examinations with their peers.”

The student is demanding a court injunction to compel Columbia to enforce its policies, in addition to compensatory and punitive damages that will be determined at the trial.

Meanwhile, the university sent an email out to all students Monday night informing them that it has begun suspending those who would not leave the encampment, as it had threatened numerous times but not followed through.

This was part of the “next phase of our efforts to ensure safety on our campus,” the notice said.

The administration immediately weakened its stance by adding that those who now left and signed a form stating that they would abide by campus rules from then on would be able to complete the semester as normal.

It also provided an explainer on how to appeal their suspension.

The school has yet to allow the New York Police Department back into the campus as it did once, in order to arrest the students and outsiders who set up the encampment in a show of support for Hamas that demanded that Columbia divest from the Jewish state.

Taking the opposite tack than that of the New York Ivy League school, the University of Texas at Austin on Monday brought in local police to help it dismantle numerous tents of its own anti-Israel protestors following several warnings that it would not tolerate their violation of school guidelines.

While doing so, the school said in a statement, “Baseball size rocks were found strategically placed within the encampment.” This indication that the danger of physical violence on campus had been real was in line with “extensive online threats” the university said it had received from protest organizers on Saturday.

Several arrests were made during the police action.

Anti-Israel Protesters Seize Administrative Building at Columbia University

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Elizabeth Weibel (Breitbart)

Anti-Israel protesters involved in an encampment at Columbia University took over an administrative building early Tuesday morning.

Video footage posted to X showed anti-Israel protesters carrying barricades into Hamilton Hall, an academic building on the university’s campus.

In its Telegram channel, Within Our Lifetime (WOL) Palestine posted an announcement calling for protection of the anti-Israel encampment on the campus.

“Student organizers have called on everyone to come to Columbia TONIGHT and defend the encampment after administration’s threats this morning,” the group wrote in a post on the channel.

Other videos posted to X showed anti-Israel protesters smashing the glass doors of Hamilton Hall, as people can be heard chanting, “Disclose. Divest. We will not stop, we will not rest.”

Anti-Israel protesters who occupied Hamilton Hall were photographed hanging pro-Palestinian posters from the windows of the building.

Protesters were videotaped hanging a banner from the windows of the building that read, “Intifada,” as anti-Israel protesters can be heard chanting, “Free, free, free, free, Palestine. From the river to the sea…”

The takeover of Hamilton Hall by pro-Palestinian protesters comes after the university announced it was suspending students after previously asking protesters involved in the anti-Israel encampment to leave by 2:00 p.m.

An initial encampment was started on Columbia University’s campus on April 17. The next day several students were suspended, and hundreds of protesters involved in the encampment were arrested.

Columbia University had removed the initial encampment, but since then, it has returned.

Since the start of the encampment at Columbia University, others have been established at the University of California Los Angeles, Yale University, Harvard UniversityGeorge Washington University, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, among others.

 

Breitbart News reached out to Columbia University for a statement but did not receive a response back by the time of publication.

Israeli chosen as student body president of Columbia amid anti-Israel protests

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Maya Platek

By Vered Weiss, World Israel News

Israeli student Maya Platek was selected as student body president of Columbia University even amid intense anti-Israel protests on campus.

Platek will serve as president of the student body for the 2024-2025 academic year.

She declared her determination to fight for the rights and safety of Jewish students and is a member of Students Supporting Israel (SSI), an organization whose stated name is to support pro-Israel voices at Columbia.

Following a successful election, Platek gave a speech during which she said, “I am an Israeli rising senior and was recently elected as the Student Body President at Columbia University.”

She added, “As Columbia hits a peak of antisemitism and anti-Zionism, I am honored to have been elected as next year’s Student Body President. More than ever before, it is critical that our voices are heard and our safety is protected.”

In the past week and a half, violent anti-Israel protests have shaken the Manhattan campus, with a rabbi recommending that Jewish students depart campus and stay at home.

Following a congressional hearing on Columbia’s administration’s handling of antisemitic incidents, president Minouche Shafik declared that there would be hybrid learning-both in-person and remote classes-until the end of the semester.

Many Jewish students criticized the move as penalizing Jewish students rather than the anti-Israel students and faculty who were creating an unsafe environment.

Platek called out those responsible for fostering antisemitism on campus, and said, “Our classmates and professors choose to manipulate history in order to demonize us as people have done all throughout history.”

She added, “They choose to rewrite our identity in order to justify terrorist regimes. They choose to cheer in our pain and in our suffering, and they choose to delegitimize the only Jewish state in the world when there are dozens of Christian and Muslim ones.”

“They choose to advocate for our removal from this campus over our nationality. That is discrimination,” Platek declared.

Netanyahu reportedly ‘stressed’ over ICC arrest threat, seeks US support

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Photo Credit: AP

By Vered Weiss, World Israel News

Israeli Prime Minister is reportedly “abnormally stressed” and “frightened” over the possibility of being arrested by the International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague and is seeking US diplomatic support, as reported by Ben Caspi of Maariv.

Netanyahu has been engaged in non-stop phone calls over the past few days, particularly with US President Joe Biden to prevent an ICC arrest of him and other Israeli officials for their role in the war between Israel and Gaza.

Among other reasons, an ICC arrest is dreaded because it would signal a major deterioration in Israel’s global standing.

The reason for the urgency is the suspicion that ICC’s prosecutor, Karim Khan may issue warrants for the arrest of Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi this week.

Although Netanyahu said such an arrest would create a “dangerous precedent” he insisted that it would not influence his policy for conducting the war.

“We will never stop defending ourselves. Whereas decisions of the court in the Hague will not affect Israel’s actions, they would be a dangerous precedent threatening the soldiers and officials of any democracy fighting criminal terrorism and aggression,” he said on Friday.

Israel is not a member of the ICC and doesn’t recognize its jurisdiction, although the Palestinian territories were accepted as a member state in 2015.

In October 2023, Karim Khan warned that the ICC had jurisdiction to try war crimes allegedly committed by Israel or Hamas during the war.

Khan said he is actively investigating alleged war crimes in Gaza.

The ICC currently has 124 permanent members and can prosecute individuals for war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide, and aggression.

The current Gaza case in the ICC is separate from the genocide charges in the ICJ, or the International Court of Justice.

South Africa’s Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor told MSNBC, “I believe that the ICC needs to make a decision as to whether in terms of war crimes, are they being committed. They must make the decision, same as they did with the Russian president.”

Houthis Claim to Down American Reaper Drone over Yemen

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In January 2021, the Houthis were designated by the Trump administration as a terrorist organization. However, in early February 2021, shortly after entering office, the Biden administration removed the Houthis from the terrorist list. On January 12, 2024, President Biden said: “I think they (the Houthis) are terrorists.” Credit: AP

John Hayward(Breitbart)

The Iran-backed Houthi terrorists of Yemen claimed this weekend to have brought down a $30 million U.S. Reaper drone, the third one in six months if confirmed.

The Houthis have also resumed attacks on international shipping after a brief operational pause, with several strikes reported in the Red Sea over the weekend.

The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) confirmed on Sunday that an MQ-9 Reaper drone “crashed in Yemen.” DoD said the cause of the crash is under investigation.

The Houthis claimed on Saturday to have destroyed the MQ-9 with a surface-to-air missile as it flew near their stronghold in Yemen’s Saada province.

The terrorists backed up their claim with video footage of what they claimed was the missile launch and intercept. A man could be heard reciting the Houthi slogan as the missile was fired: “Allahu akbar, death to America, death to Israel, curse the Jews, victory to Islam.”

The video concluded with the Houthis parading debris from the destroyed alleged drone. Some of the pieces were stamped with the logo of General Atomics, the company that manufactures Reapers, and appeared to have valid serial numbers. The authenticity of the video could not otherwise be confirmed.

The Houthis also claimed on Saturday to have attacked a Panama-flagged oil tanker called the Andromeda Star with ballistic missiles.

The Houthis said the Andromeda Star is owned by British interests, but, in fact, it was recently sold to an owner in the Seychelles and was traveling from Russia to India, presumably with a cargo of Russian oil.

The Houthis have promised safe passage through the Red Sea to Russia, China, and Iran, while they attack other ships to pressure Israel to halt its military campaign against Hamas.

RED SEA – NOVEMBER 20: (—-EDITORIAL USE ONLY – MANDATORY CREDIT – ‘HOUTHIS MEDIA CENTER / HANDOUT’ – NO MARKETING NO ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS – DISTRIBUTED AS A SERVICE TO CLIENTS—-) A screen grab captured from a video shows that cargo ship ‘Galaxy Leader’, co-owned by an Israeli company, being hijacked by Iran-backed Houthis from Yemen in the Red Sea on November 20, 2023. (Photo by Houthis Media Center / Handout /Anadolu via Getty Images)
A screen grab captured from a video shows that cargo ship “Galaxy Leader,” co-owned by an Israeli company, being hijacked by Iran-backed Houthis from Yemen in the Red Sea on November 20, 2023 (Houthis Media Center / Handout /Anadolu via Getty Images)

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the Houthis launched three anti-ship ballistic missiles (ASBMs) into the Red Sea, apparently targeting the Andromeda Star and another ship, the Antiqua/Barbados-flagged tanker Maisha.
According to CENTCOM, the Andromeda Star suffered “minor damage” from the attack but was able to “continue its voyage.” A missile landed in the “vicinity” of the Maisha but did not damage the ship. No injuries were reported.

Terror chief Abdel-Malik al-Houthi told a crowd of demonstrators in the Houthi-controlled capital of Yemen, Sana’a, that rumors of his forces running low on weapons because of U.S. and coalition airstrikes were false. He claimed the Houthis would prove this by extending their campaign of terror attacks into the Indian Ocean, as well as the Red Sea.

Cindy Adams’ Grand HS Diploma Ceremony: A Star-Studded Evening of Celebration & Surprises

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Cindy Adams’ Grand HS Diploma Ceremony: A Star-Studded Evening of Celebration & Surprises

Edited by: TJVNews.com

Cindy Adams, the renowned gossip columnist known for her decades-long career at The New YorkPost, celebrated a unique milestone at her 94th birthday party: receiving her high school diploma. According to a recently published report in The Post’s Page Six, in an event marked by both sentiment and triumph, the diploma was presented by New York Governor Kathy Hochul, making the occasion a notable intersection of state recognition and personal achievement.

Born and raised in New York City, Adams has often shared with friends and readers alike that despite her sharp wit and encyclopedic knowledge of the celebrity world, she never graduated from Andrew Jackson High School in Queens, as was reported by The Post. The reason, as whimsical as it sounds, was a failure in home economics—a class that required her to sew her own graduation dress. Adams’ journey through this academic hurdle was fraught with challenges. Destined for college at the tender age of 15, she faced an unexpected roadblock when the school insisted that graduation candidates produce their own white lawn dresses, a task at which Adams admittedly had no skill.

The situation escalated when, despite her mother hiring a professional to complete the dress, the school principal denied Adams her diploma on the grounds that she hadn’t personally made the dress. This denial not only prevented her graduation but also barred her from proceeding to college as planned. The Post reported that upon reflection of the incident, Adams once wrote, “I was set for college at 15. But Andrew Jackson High required females to make their own white lawn graduation dress in home etc. I can’t sew. After my mother paid a pro to finish it for me, the principal said: ‘She didn’t make her own dress, she can’t graduate.’ So: No diploma, college, graduating high school. I’m living proof that you can’t get anywhere without a college education.”

Despite this setback, Adams’ career was anything but hindered. She became an iconic figure in journalism, renowned for her insightful and often sharp-tongued gossip columns that entertained and informed New Yorkers for generations, as per the information in The Post report. Meanwhile, her high school eventually closed its doors in 1994, yet the story of her denied diploma lingered as a peculiar footnote in her storied life.

The effort to award Adams her diploma gained momentum thanks to the advocacy of some of her influential friends who worked behind the scenes for years. These efforts, however, were met with bureaucratic hesitance as officials insisted she take the General Educational Development (GED) test instead. The Post report indicated that it wasn’t until Governor Hochul stepped in that Adams was finally able to receive her diploma, officially making her a member of the class of 1946, albeit 78 years later.

This belated recognition is more than just a correction of a long-standing oversight; it is a testament to the resilience of a woman who, despite educational setbacks, rose to the top of her field and became a legend in her own right.

Surrounded by a who’s who of political, media, and entertainment figures, Adams celebrated not just her 94th birthday but also a long-awaited academic accolade. The report in the Post explained that in a touching tribute to her storied career and vibrant life, Adams was presented with a high school diploma, completing a chapter that began more than seven decades ago.

The diploma, awarded under her maiden name Cynthia Heller, was presented by New York Governor Kathy Hochul in a private and dignified ceremony at Adams’ apartment. As per the information contained in the Post report, the degree included not only the diploma itself but also a plaque featuring an image of her alma mater, Andrew Jackson High School, and a “Discharge Card” dated May 1, 1946, symbolizing her official completion of high school requirements. A source described the event to Page Six as “very classy,” highlighting the elegance and personal nature of the celebration.

The guest list for Adams’ birthday and diploma ceremony read like a roll call of New York’s elite. Revealed in The Post’s Page Six report was that among those in attendance were former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, current NYC Mayor Eric Adams, and a spectrum of celebrities from various fields, including filmmaker Woody Allen, civil rights activist Al Sharpton, political commentator Kellyanne Conway, television host Bill O’Reilly, and CNN anchor Don Lemon. Each guest added a layer of prestige and recognition to the event, calling attention to Adams’ significant impact on both the media landscape and the broader cultural fabric of New York.

Adams, ever the epitome of humor and zest, told attendees about her age with her characteristic flair: “I’m size 8, 5-foot-4, 118 pounds, 34B bra size, and I was there when the Egyptians were putting up the pyramids,” the Post’s Page Six quoted Adams as saying. This quip not only lightened the mood but also reflected her timeless ability to engage and entertain an audience.

The celebration was further graced by the presence of soap opera legend Susan Lucci, Fox 5 New York’s Rosanna Scotto, and a host of other prominent figures including Matilda Cuomo, mother of Andrew Cuomo, economic commentator Larry Kudlow, billionaire businessman John Catsimatidis, former NYC Comptroller Scott Stringer, New York Times columnist Maureen Dowd, News Corp CEO Robert Thomson, and New York Post Group Editor-in-Chief Keith Poole, according to the Post report.  Each toast and greeting conveyed a deep respect and admiration for Adams’ contributions to journalism and public life.

 

MTA Sets Date for Controversial Congestion Pricing Plan Amid Legal Battles

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MTA Sets Date for Controversial Congestion Pricing Plan Amid Legal Battles

Edited by: TJVNews.com

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) of New York has marked June 30th as the commencement date for its much-debated congestion pricing plan. According to a recently published report in the New York Post, this initiative mandates a $15 daily fee for drivers entering Manhattan south of 61st Street, with higher charges imposed on larger vehicles. The plan aims to alleviate traffic congestion in the heart of Manhattan and generate substantial revenue for the MTA’s deteriorating infrastructure, potentially exceeding a billion dollars annually, as was noted in the Post report.

The primary objective of the congestion pricing plan is to reduce vehicular traffic in one of the most densely populated areas of New York City, thereby mitigating environmental impact and improving air quality, the Post report explained.  Additionally, the fees collected would provide a crucial financial lifeline for the MTA, which has long struggled with budget deficits and infrastructure issues.

However, the initiative has encountered significant opposition. Critics argue that it disproportionately affects certain groups, particularly suburban commuters and those who rely on vehicle transportation due to the lack of viable public transit options in their areas, as was indicated in the Post report. The imposition of a daily fee is seen by these critics as an unfair tax on drivers who might not have other transportation alternatives.

The rollout of the congestion pricing plan is not yet guaranteed on the slated date due to ongoing legal challenges. New Jersey has filed a lawsuit in federal court, claiming that the MTA’s evaluation of the toll’s impact inadequately considered the effects on drivers from the Garden State and failed to address certain environmental consequences,  ccording to the information provided in the Post report.  This legal action spotlights the inter-state friction that the plan has exacerbated, given the significant number of New Jersey residents who commute to Manhattan for work.

In addition to the lawsuit from New Jersey, local opposition has been robust. The United Federation of Teachers (UFT), a prominent teachers’ union in New York, and Vito Fossela, the Staten Island Borough President, are actively challenging the plan in court. The Post reported that the UFT filed a lawsuit set for arguments in mid-May and its involvement calls attention to the widespread concern over the plan’s impact, extending beyond logistical and financial issues to encompass broader social justice and equity considerations.

The report in the Post noted that their efforts highlight concerns that the congestion pricing could have unintended negative impacts on specific communities, including potential health effects on residents of areas such as Staten Island, who may see increased traffic and pollution as drivers seek alternative routes to avoid the tolls.

State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton of Staten Island and State Senator Jim Skoufis of Orange County have also voiced their strong opposition to the plan. Scarcella-Spanton labeled the MTA’s oversight of the potential health impacts on Staten Islanders as “abhorrent,” the Post report said.

Scarcella-Spanton also emphasized the dual burden of financial strain and health risks posed by the plan, condemning what she sees as a “blatant disregard for the health and well-being” of her constituents, the Post report added.

Senator Skoufis raised issues regarding the lack of reliable public transportation alternatives for his constituents in Orange County. According to the report in the Post, he pointed out the impracticality of the current transit options, where train schedules can have gaps as long as six hours, making it difficult for everyday workers such as teachers, police officers, and sanitation workers to maintain their schedules without relying on personal vehicles.

Both Skoufis and Scarcella-Spanton broke ranks with their Democratic colleagues earlier this year during votes for new nominees to the MTA board, signaling their deep dissatisfaction with the direction of the MTA’s policies.

Despite these challenges, Governor Kathy Hochul has defended the congestion pricing plan, arguing that it is essential for raising critically needed funds to maintain and upgrade New York City’s public transportation system. However, recent polls indicate a significant lack of public support, with approximately 63% of voters expressing disapproval of the plan, as was indicated in the Post report.

 

King Charles III’s Funeral Plans Updated as Speculation Mounts Over Health Concerns

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King Charles III was diagnosed with a form of cancer and has begun treatment. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

King Charles III’s Funeral Plans Updated as Speculation Mounts Over Health Concerns

Edited by: Fern Sidman

In British society and the corridors of power, a pressing question looms large: Just how sick is King Charles III?  According to a detailed report that appeared on Thursday on The Daily Beast web site, the answer remains shrouded in mystery and whispers of the monarch’s declining health have ignited a flurry of speculation and concern.

Recent conversations with associates of the king paint a grim picture of his health, with expressions of somber resignation and murmurs of “It’s not good” echoing through the halls of power. The report in the Daily Beast indicated that despite mounting apprehension, officials within the royal circle have remained tight-lipped, deflecting inquiries and opting to maintain a veil of secrecy around the king’s condition.

Formal requests for comment on the matter from reputable sources, including The Daily Beast, have been met with resounding silence from the king’s camp. While his aides have steadfastly adhered to their stance of refraining from providing a “running commentary” on his health, the lack of transparency has only fueled speculation and heightened concerns.

The king’s disclosure earlier this year of a cancer diagnosis, albeit without specifying the exact type, has only added to the uncertainty surrounding his health. The report in The Daily Beast indicated that while ruling out prostate cancer, the nature and severity of his condition remain shrouded in ambiguity, leaving many to ponder the implications for the monarchy and the nation at large.

Reports suggest that King Charles III has been undergoing regular visits to London for radiotherapy treatment, a course of action typically employed in the treatment of various types of cancer. However, the Daily Beast also reported that the extent to which this treatment has alleviated or exacerbated his condition remains a matter of conjecture.

As the leader of a hereditary monarchy, King Charles III occupies a unique position of authority, with his health status carrying significant implications for the continuity and stability of the monarchy, as was explained in The Daily Beast report. While his office may seek to shield his prognosis from public scrutiny, the inherent public interest in his well-being calls attention to the magnitude of the situation.

Reports from sources within the royal circle suggest that detailed plans for King Charles III’s funeral, codenamed Operation Menai Bridge, are being regularly updated and reviewed by government officials. As was noted in The Daily Beast report, the plans have been described as a comprehensive document akin to a “lessons learned” review and this meticulous assessment aims to identify areas for improvement based on the handling of Queen Elizabeth’s funeral and to ensure seamless execution in the event of the king’s passing.

While the Cabinet Office, responsible for state funerals, declined to comment to The Daily Beast on the specifics of the Operation Menai Bridge document, the routine nature of such preparations shines a spotlight on the gravity of the situation. With the prospect of losing the reigning monarch looming large, officials are leaving no stone unturned in their preparations for the inevitable, the report added.

Behind the scenes, friends of the royal family and insiders are grappling with the stark reality of King Charles III’s declining health, with genuine concern and sadness permeating their conversations. Despite efforts to maintain optimism, there is a palpable sense of distress at the prospect of losing the king sooner than anticipated.

One longtime friend of the family, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed to The Daily Beast the serious nature of the situation, acknowledging the severity of the king’s illness while expressing hope for his recovery. The sentiment echoed by this source reflects the delicate balance between acknowledging the gravity of the situation and maintaining a sense of optimism amidst uncertainty.

Adding to the sense of foreboding, reports have emerged of officials routinely reviewing copies of the extensive Operation Menai Bridge document. As was noted in The Daily Beast report, with meticulous attention to detail, preparations are underway to ensure that King Charles III’s funeral proceeds with the dignity and precision befitting the occasion.

Dubbed Operation Menai Bridge, the funeral plan for King Charles III follows a long-standing tradition within the royal family of assigning bridge-based codewords to funeral preparations. The report on The Daily Beast web site noted that while Queen Elizabeth’s death plan was famously known as “Operation London Bridge,” the choice of Menai Bridge holds symbolic significance, as it is a dramatic suspension bridge connecting the island of Anglesey with the Welsh mainland.

Insiders privy to the planning process emphasize the routine nature of reviewing and updating the funeral plans, stressing the importance of ensuring readiness in light of the king’s cancer diagnosis, the Daily Beast report explained.  While the circulation of these plans may evoke a sense of urgency, it is regarded as standard protocol to maintain preparedness for all eventualities.

Former staffers and sources with connections to serving courtiers offer insights into the meticulous attention to detail that characterizes Operation Menai Bridge. Indicated in The Daily Beast report was that for those involved in the planning, it is not merely an emotional undertaking but a solemn duty performed with the utmost seriousness and professionalism.

Senior officials responsible for coordinating royal funerals approach their task with precision and dedication, drawing upon the success of past events, such as Queen Elizabeth’s funeral, to set a high standard for future ceremonies, the report in The Daily Beast affirmed. Every aspect of the plan is scrutinized and refined to ensure smooth execution, with a focus on honoring the dignity and legacy of the monarchy.

The military plays a pivotal role in the execution of royal funerals, with the Household Division, under the leadership of Major General James Bowder, taking the lead, the Daily Beast noted. The involvement of multiple regiments, including the Parachute Regiment, illustrates the scale and complexity of the operation, highlighting the comprehensive preparations underway to uphold tradition and protocol.

According to insiders familiar with the planning process, the funeral arrangements for King Charles III represent a significant logistical challenge, requiring detailed preparations for both ceremonial and security aspects, The Daily Beast reported. From the ceremonial proceedings to the complex security measures, every aspect of the event must be carefully orchestrated to ensure its smooth execution.

The ceremonial end of the funeral is just the beginning of a comprehensive security operation, given the attendance of numerous VVIPs from around the world. Security measures range from missile defense systems to safeguarding against potential lone wolf attacks.

Heading the coordination efforts is the Earl Marshal, Edward Fitzalan Howard, the Duke of Norfolk. As the most senior dukedom in the land, the Earl Marshal’s role is hereditary and carries significant responsibility in overseeing royal ceremonies and events, according to the information provided in The Daily Beast report. With a track record of success, including the coordination of Queen Elizabeth’s funeral and coronation, the Duke of Norfolk is poised to lead the preparations for King Charles III’s funeral with expertise and diligence.

Despite the sensitive nature of the topic, hints of the possibility of King Charles III’s passing in a shorter timeframe than widely anticipated have surfaced in the UK press, as was indicated in The Daily Beast report. Notably, the Daily Mail’s Ephraim Hardcastle column hinted at this possibility on February 22nd, reflecting the undercurrent of speculation surrounding the king’s health.

However, amidst whispers and hints, a remarkable silence shrouds the topic in the British press, despite occasional allusions in certain columns.

One such instance arose in Hardcastle’s column, where cryptic references to Prince William’s plans for changes to the accession process hinted at a shifting landscape within the royal family. Noted in the Daily Beast report was that suggestions that Prince William’s envisioned reforms could face an expedited timeline, possibly preceding a general election and a new Prime Minister, hinted at a sense of urgency in the corridors of power.

Further fueling speculation, the column delved into Prince William’s contemplations about his destiny, referencing past conversations where he described his future as akin to “prison walls,” according to The Daily Beast, Against the backdrop of King Charles III’s health concerns, these musings took on added significance, hinting at the weight of impending responsibilities.

Despite such tantalizing tidbits, the British press maintains a conspicuous silence on the matter, adhering to strict laws governing medical privacy and the dissemination of personal information. The report in the Daily Beast suggested that even with a purported diagnosis such as bladder cancer, the stringent regulations render any disclosure virtually impossible, leaving the public to decipher clues and read between the lines.

Meanwhile, foreign media, unbound by the same constraints, have offered veiled insights into the royal family’s inner turmoil. The Daily Beast observed that Tina Brown’s commentary in the New York Times sheds light on the profound impact of King Charles III’s health on the succession timeline, suggesting that Prince William and Princess Catherine may find themselves thrust into the spotlight sooner than anticipated, disrupting their aspirations for a period of private family life.

While the exact type of cancer afflicting the king remains undisclosed, his frequent trips to London for treatment suggest a regimen involving radiotherapy, according to a cancer expert who spoke to The Daily Beast but preferred to remain anonymous.

Radiotherapy, a treatment conducted using specialized equipment, stands distinct from chemotherapy, which can be administered with more commonplace medical tools, the report explained,  Often, these therapies are employed in conjunction to combat cancer comprehensively.

Despite the lack of official updates from the palace, subtle indicators hint at the monarch’s health status. The Daily Beast also reported that following a spirited public appearance at Easter, where he engaged with well-wishers outside St George’s Chapel in Windsor, King Charles III has retreated from the public eye, sparking speculation about his well-being.

Observers note a gaunt appearance during sporadic sightings, such as his journeys to London for treatment, where he is chauffeured in a ceremonial-style vehicle with conspicuous windows, according to The Daily Beast report. However, a glimmer of hope emerged as the king attended church in Scotland, showcasing resilience amidst his health battle.

The trajectory of King Charles III’s recovery will likely be illuminated by key upcoming events on his calendar. The official birthday parade, Trooping the Color, slated for June 15, holds significance as a potential gauge of his progress. Additionally, The Daily Beast report indicated that rumors continue to swirl about his attendance at the prestigious Royal Ascot horse racing festival later in June, suggesting optimism regarding his health.

Moreover, the report in The Daily Beast said that plans for a state visit to Australia followed by participation in the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa, scheduled for mid-October, remain underway, indicating a determination to fulfill royal duties despite health challenges.

Christopher Andersen, a renowned royal writer, revealed to The Daily Beast the behind-the-scenes process that every senior royal undergoes in planning their final send-off.

Andersen emphasized that the solemn task of funeral planning extends beyond the king himself; it encompasses every senior member of the royal family, including Prince William and Prince Harry. Revealed in The Daily Beast report was that even during their teenage years, the young princes were entrusted with selecting music, flowers, prayers, and individuals to participate in their own funeral ceremonies. This morbid reality serves as a constant reminder to royals of the inevitable spotlight that will accompany their passing.

In the case of King Charles III, whose reign is projected to be relatively short, according to The Daily Beast report, the revision of funeral plans is a routine practice rather than a determinant of his health prognosis. The Daily Beast report emphasized that Andersen cautioned against conflating funeral preparations with speculation about the duration of the king’s reign, emphasizing the need for transparency from the palace regarding his condition and prognosis.

The absence of official updates from the palace has fueled gossip and conjecture, creating fertile ground for conspiracy theories to flourish, as was suggested in The Daily Beast report.

While the macabre fixation on death may pervade discussions surrounding royal funeral preparations, Andersen’s insights highlight the pragmatic approach taken by senior royals to ensure that their final farewells reflect their wishes, the Daily Beast reported. In an era marked by heightened public scrutiny, transparency and honesty from the palace are essential to navigate the delicate balance between privacy and public interest. Until then, speculation will persist, casting a shadow over the future of the monarchy and the health of its reigning sovereign.

 

 

 

 

 

 

British Troops May Be Tasked With Delivering Gaza Aid, BBC Report Says

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This satellite picture taken by Planet Labs PBC show the construction of a new aid port near Gaza City, Gaza Strip, on Wednesday, April 24, 2024. A new port is being built in the Gaza Strip ahead of a U.S. military-led operation to surge needed food and other aid into the besieged enclave as Israel's war on Hamas there grinds on, according to satellite images analyzed by Thursday, April 25, 2024, by The Associated Press. (Planet Labs PBC via AP)

(AP) — British troops may be tasked with delivering aid to Gaza from an offshore pier now under construction by the U.S. military, the BBC reported Saturday. U.K. government officials declined to comment on the report.

 

According to the BBC, the British government is considering deploying troops to drive the trucks that will carry aid from the pier along a floating causeway to the shore. No decision has been made and the proposal hasn’t yet reached Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, the BBC reported, citing unidentified government sources.

The report comes after a senior U.S. military official said on Thursday that there would be no American “boots on the ground” and another nation would provide the personnel to drive the delivery trucks to the shore. The official, who spoke to reporters on condition of anonymity to discuss details not yet made public, declined to identify the third party.

Britain is already providing logistical support for construction of the pier, including a Royal Navy ship that will house hundreds of U.S. soldiers and sailors working on the project.

In addition, British military planners have been embedded at U.S. Central Command in Florida and in Cyprus, where aid will be screened before shipment to Gaza, for several weeks, the U.K. Ministry of Defense said on Friday.

The U.K. Hydrographic Office has also shared analysis of the Gaza shoreline with the U.S. to aid in construction of the pier.

“It is critical we establish more routes for vital humanitarian aid to reach the people of Gaza, and the U.K. continues to take a leading role in the delivery of support in coordination with the U.S. and our international allies and partners,” Defense Secretary Grant Shapps said in a statement.

Development of the port and pier in Gaza comes as Israel faces widespread international criticism over the slow trickle of aid into the Palestinian territory, where the United Nations says at least a quarter of the population sits on the brink of starvation.

The Israel-Hamas began with a Hamas-led attack into southern Israel on Oct. 7, in which militants killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took some 250 people as hostages. Israel says the militants are still holding around 100 hostages and the remains of more than 30 others. Since then, more than 34,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s air and ground offensive, according to the Health Ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, around two-thirds of them children and women.

 

Hamas Is Reviewing an Israeli Proposal for a Cease-Fire in Gaza, as a Planned Rafah Offensive Looms

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Pro-Palestinian protesters take part in a demonstration in London, Saturday, April 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Thomas Krych)

(AP) — Hamas said Saturday that it was reviewing a new Israeli proposal for a cease-fire in Gaza, as Egypt intensified efforts to broker a deal to end the months-long war and stave off a planned Israeli ground offensive into the southern city of Rafah.

 

Senior Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya gave no details of Israel’s offer, but said it was in response to a proposal from Hamas two weeks ago. Negotiations earlier this month centered on a six-week cease-fire proposal and the release of 40 civilian and sick hostages in exchange for freeing hundreds of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails.

Hamas’ statement came hours after a high-level Egyptian delegation wrapped up a visit to Israel where it discussed a “new vision” for a prolonged cease-fire in Gaza, according to an Egyptian official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to freely discuss the developments.

It wasn’t immediately clear whether Israel’s new proposal was directly related to Friday’s visit by Egyptian mediators.

The discussions between Egyptian and Israeli officials focused on the first stage of a multi-phase plan that would include a limited exchange of hostages held by Hamas for Palestinian prisoners, and the return of a significant number of displaced Palestinians to their homes in northern Gaza “with minimum restrictions,” the Egyptian official said.

The mediators are working on a compromise that will answer most of both parties’ main demands, which could pave the way to continued negotiations with the goal of a larger deal to end the war, the official said.

There has been growing international pressure for Hamas and Israel to reach an agreement on a cease-fire and avert a possible Israeli attack on Rafah, where more than half of Gaza’s 2.3 million people have sought refuge after fleeing fighting elsewhere in the territory.

Israel has been insisting for months it plans a ground offensive into Rafah, on the border with Egypt, where it says many remaining Hamas militants are holed up, despite calls for restraint from the international community including Israel’s staunchest ally, the United States.

Egypt has cautioned an offensive into Rafah could have “catastrophic consequences” on the humanitarian situation in Gaza, where famine is feared, as well as on regional peace and security.

The Israeli military has massed dozens of tanks and armored vehicles in southern Israel close to Rafah, and hit locations in the city in near-daily airstrikes.

 

Mike Lawler And Ritchie Torres Want To Send Antisemitism Monitors To Campuses, Pull Funding From Noncomplying Schools

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Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y., speaks during a House Financial Services Committee hearing, Thursday, Sept. 30, 2021 on Capitol Hill in Washington. (Al Drago/Pool via AP)

(Dail Caller) Republican New York Rep. Mike Lawler and Democratic New York Rep. Ritchie Torres are planning to introduce legislation to send antisemitism monitors to college campuses and revoke federal funds from schools that don’t comply, the GOP lawmaker announced in a Friday press release.

The College Oversight and Legal Updates Mandating Bias Investigations and Accountability Act, or the COLUMBIA Act, would empower the Department of Education to install a third-party monitor to any school that accepts federal funding, according to the press release.

The monitor would be responsible for releasing quarterly public reports on schools’ progress in their efforts to combat antisemitism. Though the Department of Education would appoint the monitors, the schools would pay for them, the press release reads.

The Representatives highlighted protests across the country, particularly at Columbia University, as a major reason why they’re introducing the bill.

“Rising antisemitism on our college campuses is a major concern and we must act to ensure the safety of students,” Lawler wrote. “I’m proud to work with my friend and colleague Ritchie Torres on legislation that will impose a third-party antisemitism monitor on college campuses to ensure protections are in place and oversee any troubling action by college administrators. If colleges will not step up to protect their students, Congress must act.”

“As we have seen over the last half a year since October 7, campus antisemitism is at an all-time high, and American universities are not capable of handling it when left to their own devices. My office and I have spoken with countless Jewish students from campuses across America who feel deeply unsafe, purely as a result of their religious and ethnic identity,” Torres said in the release.

“This is a blatant violation of Title VI and the federal government cannot allow this to continue unchecked. This past week’s crisis at Columbia is not an isolated incident — it is the straw that has broken the camel’s back — and I am prepared to do something about it. That’s why I am introducing the COLUMBIA Act today, and I urge all of my colleagues in the House, from both parties, to join me in this crucial action. Jewish students have told my office that they feel completely abandoned by their university administrators and they view Congress as the only avenue for accountability and safety. Let’s honor our word to them and get this done,” Torres concluded.

Besides the protests in Columbia, Pro-Palestine demonstrations have erupted on campuses across the country.

The University of Southern California cancelled their main graduation ceremony due to rampant protests.

Atlanta’s Emory University was rife with agitators Thursday as police struggled to contain the chaos. Police arrested Chair of the Philosophy Department Noelle McAfee and economics professor Caroline Fohlin on camera.

 

The University of Texas at Austin was also the setting for some clashes between police and protestors Wednesday, with law enforcement arresting 10.

Students at Harvard took over the school’s iconic Harvard Yard park Wednesday.

Additional protests occurred at Yale, the University of Michigan, UCLA and George Washington University and others throughout the nation.

Anti-Israel Rot Runs Deep And Widespread In Our Education System Starting In Kindergarten OPINION

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Ivy League universities such as Columbia (pictured above), Harvard, Rutgers, UPenn, and MIT are places where anti-Semitism has not only found a foothold but has also been allowed to flourish, often unchecked. Credit: YouTube.com

By Ryan Walters (Daily Caller)

In recent days, the chaos at Columbia University and other colleges has once again reminded Americans about the sheer amount of anti-Semitism that is running rampant at American colleges and the degree to which it has pervaded our institutions of higher learning. But this comes as little surprise to anyone who has been paying attention to the state of American higher education to any degree over the last few years. This problem is far more widespread than the most recent headlines.

The anti-Israel rot in our education system runs a whole lot deeper than a bunch of college inmates once again taking over the asylum. Whether parents realize or not, America’s K-12 government schools are also replete with anti-Israel hatred and propaganda. And in order to address it, we need to take on the education cartel — composed of teachers’ unions, bureaucrats and politicians — that promotes and perpetuates it

Back in December, almost 40 parents’ groups publicly called on the Biden administration to address anti-Israel rhetoric and propaganda in government schools. Their concerns were well founded.

Research recently published in City Journal outlines just how anti-Israel political ideologies have spread throughout primary and secondary educational institutions. This includes “‘Liberated ethnic studies’ curricula, like the one mandated by California” and other lessons where Israel is routinely described as “an egregious example of ‘settler colonialism’ and oppression of ‘indigenous people.’”

A December report published by The FreePress outlines even more despicable examples, including a pre-K lesson on “ethnic noses.” Meanwhile, scores of teachers in New York City earlier in 2024 attended a seminar where they got information on how to get around so-called “censorship” while indoctrinating students about the “Israeli occupation” and “ongoing genocide in Gaza.” Countless other examples abound and require only a minimal amount of effort to dig up.

Most of this pseudo-curriculum is being pushed by the political leanings of radical progressive teachers’ unions, according to a City Journal article, which is completely unsurprising. Just as with other political causes, most of the unions have been very open about their ideological leanings when it comes to Israel.

The simple fact of the matter is that, at the end of the day, bureaucrats, teachers’ unions and politicians are focused far more on political outcomes from public schools than they are on quality education. At the same time, most of this education cartel is ideologically captured by whatever pop-ideological trends are captivating national politics at any given time and whatever the radical left’s political coalitions demand of them. At this moment in time, that means most of these include anti-American civics, biology defying gender ideology, Critical Race Theory and — yes — anti-Israel, pro-Hamas propaganda.

There are, however, other issues that also need to be addressed, such as anti-Israel organizations working to inject their own pro-Hamas perspectives into curricula around the country. At the same time, the Qatar Foundation International — at the direction of the pro-Hamas Qatari government — has been giving money and resources to education departments and institutions to further the pro-Hamas Qatari government and ruling class’s geopolitical ends.

Israel is a vital American ally. Israel has a right to exist. Hamas’ barbaric, terrorist tactics have no place in a civilized world. These should not be controversial statements — especially not in classrooms supported by American tax dollars. Yes, these issues must be addressed where they arise, and school systems need to be completely swept clean of anti-Semitism and anti-Israel propaganda. But playing Whac-A-Mole with a broken and flawed system is not a long-term solution to the problem. Education freedom is.

Political actors posing as educators simply will not have the power to corrupt our institutions and brainwash American students if the American people stand up and demand that we put that power back in the hands of parents and students. It’s that simple. The best way to avoid disturbing surprises in our children’s classrooms is to create a system where transparency is a given. The best way to ensure that hateful and pernicious ideologies do not infect public school curricula is to give parents the power to choose which curricula their children are going to learn from — whether that’s at a traditional public school, charter school, private school or through homeschooling.

That is the future of American education, and it’s a future that more and more parents are pushing for every single day. If we want to root out anti-Semitism and anti-Israel propaganda in public schools, then we need to disempower the terrorist sympathizers in our midst and radically re-empower the American people.

Ryan Walters is Superintendent of the Oklahoma State Department of Education. You can follow him on X: @RyanWaltersSupt.

NYPD arrest hundreds of anti-Israel activists near Shumer’s Brooklyn home

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Tranq is circulating across NY and has been tied to dozens of deaths in the state. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)

Protesters wore black T-shirts declaring “Jews Say Cease Fire Now” as law enforcement led them away in zip ties two at a time. Chants at the demonstration included “Disclose, divest, we will not stop, we will not rest. Disclose, divest” and “Let Gaza live.”

It wasn’t the first time that pro-Palestinian, pro-Hamas marchers directed their ire at Schumer; they first chose the location right after the terrorist attacks in southern Israel on Oct. 7.

The activists started their march holding a banner representing a Passover seder plate. Morgan Bassichis, a member of the far-left, anti-Israel activist group Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP), said to participants that “this will not be a seder as usual. These are not usual times.”

The agitators escalated as some in the crowd shifted their attention to the streets, choosing to block traffic, which provoked long blasts from car horns. Those who ignored NYPD officers’ warnings of potential arrest for refusing to move soon found themselves in zip ties.

JVP confirmed that it had intentionally chosen the action to coincide with the Jewish holiday of Passover.

“Screams Before Silence”: A Documentary Sheds Light on Hamas Rape of Women During October 7 Attacks

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“Screams Before Silence”: A Documentary Sheds Light on Hamas Rape of Women During October 7 Attacks

Edited by: TJVNews.com

On October 7, a series of brutal attacks on Israeli towns and the Nova Music Festival left a dark mark, characterized by horrific acts of sexual violence against women and girls, including rape, assault, and mutilation. These heinous acts extended to the treatment of Israeli captives in Gaza, with released hostages recounting experiences of sexual assault. Despite the gravity and severity of these atrocities, there has been a noticeable lack of attention from human rights groups and international organizations.

The Documentary: An In-Depth Investigation

In the 60-minute documentary film, “Screams Before Silence,” Sheryl Sandberg, the former COO of Meta and founder of LeanIn.org, takes on the role of presenter to delve deep into these sexual atrocities. The film features interviews with a range of participants including eyewitnesses, released hostages, first responders, as well as medical and forensic experts who were on the ground during and after the attacks.

Lack of Scrutiny and Denial

The documentary highlights a disturbing trend among some sectors of the global community, including notable figures in politics, academia, and media, who have either minimized or outright denied the occurrence of these attacks. This denial and the general scarcity of scrutiny stand in stark contrast to the indisputable evidence presented by survivors and professionals involved in the aftermath of the events.

Purpose and Impact of the Documentary

“Screams Before Silence” aims to bring these ignored and denied narratives to the forefront, providing a platform for the voices of survivors of this sexual violence. By presenting firsthand accounts and expert analyses, the documentary seeks to challenge the prevailing narratives and encourage a more informed and empathetic understanding of the atrocities committed.

Broader Implications

The release of this documentary raises important questions about the role of human rights organizations and the international community in addressing and acknowledging acts of terror and sexual violence. It calls attention to the need for a unified and unequivocal response to such acts, regardless of the geopolitical or social complexities involved.

 

The film serves as a critical reminder of the human cost of conflict and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable while providing justice and recognition to the victims of such unfathomable acts.

Legislators announce language defining squatter in state housing law included in FY25 state budget

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NY State Senator John Liu in a 2017 AP photo

, NY – State Senator John Liu, Assembly Member Ron Kim and Queens legislators today announced that the final FY2025 state budget includes language that defines squatter in state housing law. The language was derived from legislation introduced by Senator Liu and Assembly Member Ron Kim, S8996/ A9772, following recent reports of squatters who take over private property.

The definition updates New York State real property law to read that “a tenant shall not include a squatter,” and further define squatter as “a person who enters or intrudes upon real property without the permission of the person entitled to possession, and continues to occupy the property without title, right or permission of the owner or owner’s agent or a person entitled to possession.”

Including this definition in real property law will help distinguish legal renters from those who unlawfully intrude or take over property. It establishes that squatters are not tenants and therefore not subject to tenant rights or protections after 30 days.

State Senator John Liu stated, “It was important that we acted with urgency to send a strong message to squatters who take over private homes that they are not welcome in our community. Scam artists who intrude on others’ homes should not have rights as tenants in state housing law, and this inclusion in the budget codifies that in simple, straightforward language. Defining squatter is an important step forward, and we will continue examining even stronger measures to protect homeowners without inadvertently putting renters at risk.”

State Assembly Member Ron Kim stated, “Our state needed stronger protections for law abiding property owners who are being victimized by squatters. Our new law defines these terms more precisely. Any occupant who unlawfully resides in a property owner’s home will be more easily removed. I want to thank colleagues in the legislature for moving expeditiously on this new law”

State Assembly Member Ed Braunstein stated, “New York State homeowners have been put on edge by the recent reports of people returning to their properties and finding squatters, only to discover that the squatters cannot be removed without a lengthy and costly eviction proceeding. Trespassing individuals in these situations are abusing a law meant to protect lawful tenants and they absolutely should not be afforded the same rights and protections. I was proud to co-sponsor this bill, which sought to close this loophole and protect New York homeowners from these unlawful opportunists. I am pleased that this clarifying language was included in this year’s state budget.”

State Assembly Member Nily Rozic stated, “Today signifies an important step forward as we include language defining ‘squatters’ in the state budget. This measure will help safeguard property rights and ensure the well-being of our communities. Thank you to my colleagues for their collective efforts to address squatting issues across New York.”

State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky stated, “I want to thank my colleagues in the legislature for supporting this bill, which I cosponsored. A problem was brought to our attention, and we got positive results.”

State Senator Leroy Comrie stated, “The state legislature took a hard stance against squatters who twist existing loopholes through acts that would, by any other circumstance, constitute theft. This change to the law is desperately needed, amongst our Queens residents, especially our seniors and homeowners, who have been living in fear and confusion as to how the law could possibly allow for such abuses. I am proud to stand with my colleagues to resolve this matter and hope for this bill’s swift passage.”

State Senator Roxanne J Persaud stated, “Squatters have jeopardized the livelihood of homeowners far too long. By passing this legislation in the budget, the rights and protections of legal renters will be clearly defined and those who take advantage will be legally held accountable. This law seeks to protect the hard earned assets of property owners and allows them to further secure their economic stability.”

State Assembly Member Grace Lee stated, “In this year’s budget, we are making it clear that if you are illegally occupying someone’s property, you are a squatter, not a tenant. Squatters do not have the same rights and protections as lawful tenants and by clarifying this distinction, we can better protect small landlords in our communities. I was proud to be a prime co-sponsor for this bill and to fight with my colleagues to get it passed in this year’s budget.”

China to host Fatah, Hamas for Palestinian unity talks

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“We support strengthening the authority of the Palestinian National Authority, and support all Palestinian factions in achieving reconciliation and increasing solidarity through dialogue and consultation,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin at a briefing on Friday.

The visit will be the first time a Hamas delegation is publicly known to have gone to China since the start of the war in Gaza. A Chinese diplomat, Wang Kejian, met Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Qatar last month, according to the Chinese foreign ministry.