What's Happening

International News

Israeli Mission Rescues Four Hostages, Kills Hundreds of Palestinians

What's going on: Over the weekend, the Israeli military rescued four hostages during a daytime raid in central Gaza. The hostages, who were being held in two apartment buildings in a refugee camp, had no serious physical injuries and were reunited with family. While many celebrated their return home, the rescue mission also prompted international outrage after Gaza’s health ministry said more than 270 Palestinians were killed and hundreds were wounded in the Israeli strikes. The EU’s top diplomat called the operation a “massacre.” Meanwhile, Israeli Minister Benny Gantz resigned from Israel’s three-man war cabinet, weeks after giving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu an ultimatum to come up with a new plan for post-war Gaza.

What it means: This is reportedly the third successful operation to rescue hostages since the October 7 attack. The Israeli government says there are about 120 hostages still in Gaza, with 43 pronounced dead. Now, the operation could spur similar rescue missions in the future, but others are still pushing for a cease-fire as a way to bring the rest of the hostages home and end the fighting. Meanwhile, Gantz’s departure could leave Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu relying on far-right allies, who don't support a US-backed cease-fire deal.

Related: George Clooney Phoned White House To Defend Wife's Work on Israeli Warrants (USA Today)

Politics

Brace Yourself for Some Major Supreme Court Decisions

What's going on: This month, the Supreme Court will issue highly-anticipated rulings on two major abortion cases. The justices could bar or limit access to mifepristone — one of two drugs used in medication abortions. They’ll also rule on whether federal law on emergency care overrides Idaho’s abortion ban. It’ll be the first time the justices revisit abortion since overturning Roe v. Wade in 2022. The high court will also be issuing a slew of other rulings on hot-button topics, including former President Trump’s immunity claim from prosecution in both of his election interference cases.

What it means: The rulings are expected by the end of the month when the Supreme Court wraps up its nine-month term. During oral arguments, the justices appeared unlikely to bar or limit access to the abortion pill. But they seemed divided on the second abortion case regarding emergency care. The rulings will further establish how far the 6-3 conservative majority court is willing to restrict access to reproductive health care — even when a majority of Americans favor access to abortion care in both cases. Meanwhile, it doesn't seem likely that the Supreme Court will sign off on Trump's absolute claim of immunity.

Related: The Supreme Court Justices Raked In Millions of Dollars in Gifts (Newsweek)

Lifestyle

IRL Dating and Singles Events Are Booming

What's going on: A new report is shedding light on the in-person dating trend and where Gen Z and millennials are looking for love. Eventbrite found attendance for singles and dating events on the platform increased 42% from 2022 to 2023, with people turning to gatherings that focus on their hobbies and interests. Think: Game nights and athletic events (hello, run clubs). The report also found singles often look to their friends to help make an introduction to a potential partner and that the ideal meet-cute space is…wait for it…a coffee shop.

What it means: It’s no secret that singles are increasingly ditching the dating apps and opting for IRL connection. From swiping fatigue, disillusionment, and safety concerns — people have had enough with online dating and the apps. Now, many are looking beyond profile pictures and funny bios and venturing out to take a look at what’s out there for themselves.

Related: The New Language Changing the Dating Scene (BBC)