Israel Marks Two Years Since Oct. 7 Attack Amid Ongoing War

Israelis are commemorating the second anniversary of the deadly Oct. 7 attack by Hamas, as the war in Gaza continues and hostages remain captive. The main memorial is being led by bereaved families rather than the government, highlighting widespread dissatisfaction with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership. In Gaza, civilians face renewed violence and displacement as Israeli forces intensify their offensive. The conflict began when militants stormed southern Israel, killing around 1,200 people and abducting 251, with dozens still held captive. Indirect talks between Israel and Hamas are ongoing, but a ceasefire remains elusive.

Legal Battles Over National Guard Deployments in U.S. Cities

Illinois and Chicago have filed a lawsuit to block President Donald Trump's plan to deploy National Guard troops to Chicago, following a similar ruling in Oregon. State officials argue that federal intervention is unnecessary and escalates tensions, while the Trump administration insists the troops are needed to support immigration enforcement and curb crime. The legal dispute highlights ongoing clashes between federal and state authorities over the use of military force in domestic matters.

Supreme Court Begins Term with Focus on Presidential Power

The Supreme Court has started a new term that will scrutinize President Trump's broad claims of executive authority. The justices will also address significant cases on voting rights and LGBTQ issues. On the first day, the court declined to hear Ghislaine Maxwell's appeal related to her conviction for aiding Jeffrey Epstein's sexual abuse of minors.

Utah Redistricting Could Boost Democrats' Hopes

Utah's Republican-led legislature has approved a new congressional map that slightly improves Democrats' chances of winning a House seat, though all districts still lean Republican. The map consolidates Salt Lake City into a single district, and awaits judicial review.

Taylor Swift Breaks Sales Record with New Album

Taylor Swift's latest album, 'The Life of a Showgirl,' sold 2.7 million copies in the U.S. on its first day, surpassing her previous records and marking the second-largest sales week for any album since 1991.