5.11.2025

"Ceasefire in Gaza Tested Amid Renewed Violence"

Renewed fighting tests Gaza ceasefire and Israel briefly halts aid JERUSALEM (AP) — Gaza’s fragile ceasefire faced its first major test Sunday as Israeli forces launched a wave of deadly strikes, saying Hamas militants had killed two soldiers, and an Israeli security official said the transfer of aid into the territory was halted

Renewed Fighting Tests Gaza Ceasefire and Israel Briefly Halts Aid

JERUSALEM (AP) – Gaza's fragile ceasefire confronted its first significant challenge on Sunday as Israeli forces initiated a series of airstrikes, claiming that Hamas militants had killed two Israeli soldiers. Amidst the escalating violence, an Israeli security official reported that the flow of aid into Gaza was initially suspended. However, the military later announced that ceasefire enforcement would resume, and aid deliveries would recommence on Monday, according to the official who requested anonymity due to lack of authorization to speak publicly.

Since its implementation about a week ago, the U.S.-proposed ceasefire aimed to end two years of warfare. President Donald Trump asserted that the ceasefire is intact, emphasizing his commitment to ensuring peace. Speaking to reporters while aboard Air Force One, Trump remarked that Hamas has been "quite rambunctious," hinting that the recent violence might stem from rogue elements within the organization rather than its leadership.

Trump indicated that any response would be "handled toughly but properly," without specifically endorsing the Israeli strikes, stating only that the situation was "under review."

Trump Calls Colombia’s Petro an ‘Illegal Drug Leader’ and Announces Tariffs and an End to US Aid

PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) – President Trump announced plans to drastically reduce U.S. aid to Colombia and impose tariffs on its exports, alleging that the country's leader, Gustavo Petro, has failed to combat drug production effectively. In a social media statement, Trump labeled Petro an "illegal drug leader," criticizing his popularity and effectiveness in office.

While aboard Air Force One, Trump further remarked on Colombia's inaction against drug trafficking, describing it as a "drug manufacturing machine" led by a "lunatic" president. He threatened that if Petro does not address drug operations, the U.S. would intervene forcefully. Additionally, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth disclosed a recent U.S. strike on a vessel linked to Colombia's National Liberation Army (ELN), a rebel group confronting Petro's administration.

A Cargo Aircraft Skids Off a Hong Kong Runway, Killing 2 Airport Workers

HONG KONG (AP) – A cargo aircraft, operated by Turkey’s ACT Airlines, skidded off the runway at Hong Kong International Airport early Monday, colliding with a security patrol car that subsequently fell into the sea, resulting in the deaths of the two occupants in the vehicle. Fortunately, the plane’s four crew members remained unharmed.

The incident occurred around 3:50 a.m. as the Boeing 747 was landing from Dubai. The airport authority emphasized that the patrol car had not entered the runway when the aircraft veered off course. Upon arrival of rescue teams, the plane was found split into two parts, floating in the water, with all crew members waiting by an open door for help.

Centrist Rodrigo Paz Wins Bolivia’s Presidential Runoff, Topping Right-Wing Rival

LA PAZ, Bolivia (AP) – Rodrigo Paz, a centrist senator who had not previously enjoyed national recognition, emerged victorious in Bolivia's presidential election on Sunday, with preliminary results indicating he secured 54% of the vote against former right-wing President Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga’s 45%. The elections were fueled by public discontent over the country’s economic turmoil and dissatisfaction with two decades of governance by the Movement Toward Socialism party.

Paz expressed optimism for his government during a celebratory speech, assuring supporters that he would address the nation's challenges. "Today, Bolivia can be certain that this will be a government that will bring solutions," he stated, signaling a commitment to bipartisan governance.

China Adopts U.S.-Style Export Rules to Counteract Trade War

WASHINGTON (AP) – Responding to the ongoing trade conflict with the United States, China has announced new export regulations concerning rare earth materials, mirroring U.S. policies that extend legal reach internationally. Beijing now requires foreign companies to obtain government approval to export any magnets containing China-originated rare earth elements, significantly impacting the global technology supply chain.

Jamieson Greer, the U.S. trade representative, argued that this regulation effectively gives China authoritative control over crucial sectors of the global market. This move marks a notable instance of China emulating longstanding U.S. trade practices developed to restrict foreign access to American technology, amplifying the competitive dynamic between the world's two largest economies.

Trump Suggests U.S. Will Buy Argentinian Beef to Reduce Prices for Consumers

ABOARD AIR FORCE ONE (AP) – President Trump proposed on Sunday the possibility of the U.S. purchasing Argentinian beef to lower beef prices for American consumers. This statement came during a flight from Florida to Washington, as he sought to address inflationary pressures affecting food prices.

U.S. beef prices have risen due to various factors, including drought conditions and reduced imports from Mexico. Trump’s prior commitments to assist Argentina's ailing economy involve a substantial credit swap line meant to stabilize its currency ahead of midterm elections for President Javier Milei.

George Santos Expresses Humility After Clemency from Trump

NEW YORK (AP) – Former U.S. Representative George Santos, recently released from prison after receiving clemency from President Trump, expressed a sense of humility during a CNN interview. Santos, convicted of financial crimes and identity theft, dismissed critiques of the clemency decision, claiming that criticism is part of public life, regardless of context.

The former Congressman admitted to his past deception and apologized to constituents, attributing his crimes to personal turmoil and chaos in his life at the time. Santos, reflecting on his prison experience, stated that he had garnered valuable insights and a deeper understanding of his actions.

Thieves Steal Crown Jewels from Louvre Museum in Minutes

PARIS (AP) – In an audacious daytime heist, thieves successfully stole valuable Napoleonic jewels from the Louvre Museum in under four minutes on Sunday. The burglary unfolded with visitors present, highlighting security concerns as staff have lately raised alarms over inadequate security measures amidst increasing attendance.

The robbery took place in close proximity to the iconic Mona Lisa, described as a meticulously executed operation. Although one of the stolen items, an emerald-set imperial crown belonging to Empress Eugénie, was later recovered outside the museum, it was found damaged. Visitors inside the museum were evacuated as police secured the area, causing panic and confusion.

State Emergency Officials Warn of Risks from FEMA Grant Delays

State authorities involved in disaster preparedness have raised alarms regarding severe federal cuts to security grants and procedural delays in FEMA funding. This uncertainty hampers their ability to address emergencies effectively, posing risks to public safety as they prepare for upcoming disasters amidst a federal government shutdown. Officials are voicing concerns that these complications could strain state-level emergency responses and hamper readiness.

AP Top 25 College Football Rankings See Major Shifts

The Associated Press Poll underwent significant revisions as Vanderbilt achieved a top-10 ranking for the first time since 1947, amidst a turbulent week where nine ranked teams suffered defeats. Ohio State retained its No. 1 position, marking its eighth consecutive week in that spot following a decisive win against Wisconsin. The shaking up of the rankings reflects the unpredictable nature of college football this season.