QUICKREADS

Palm Springs Blast: 10 facts on explosion near US fertility clinic

A bomb explosion near a Palm Springs fertility clinic killed one person and caused extensive damage, destroying the clinic's roof and shattering nearby buildings' windows. The victim's identity remains unknown, and investigations are ongoing.

NYC rabbi accuses Zohran Mamdani of crossing the line ‘clearly into antisemitism’ | Watch

Mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, the first Muslim nominee, faces backlash from Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, who accuses him of fostering antisemitism through his rhetoric. Buchdahl expresses fears for the Jewish community amid rising anti-Zionist sentiments, criticizing Mamdani's comments on the NYPD and Israel. She refuses to endorse any candidate, citing concerns for Jewish safety in New York City.

Kash Patel FBI jet use sparks row: MAGA infighting erupts after FBI head defends GF, ‘You have lost all credibility’

FBI Director Kash Patel faces backlash after using a government jet to attend his girlfriend Alexis Wilkins' performance, amid a government shutdown. Critics, including MAGA supporters, accuse him of misusing funds, while Patel defends his actions as compliant with policy. Wilkins has since filed a defamation lawsuit, seeking $5 million in damages. The FBI dismissed the controversy as "disingenuous."

Who is Kash Patel's girlfriend Alexis Wilkins and what is the FBI jet usage controversy?

FBI Director Kash Patel faces backlash after allegedly using a government jet to attend his girlfriend Alexis Wilkins' performance. He labeled the accusations as “disgustingly baseless,” asserting that he reimburses for personal travel. The FBI stated his travel complies with policy for security reasons. Wilkins has filed a defamation lawsuit against a former agent for comments made about Patel.

Carlos Manzo assassination: 5 facts to know about Mexican mayor who called for use of ‘brute force’ against drug cartels

Carlos Manzo, the mayor of Uruapan, Mexico, was assassinated on November 1 during Day of the Dead celebrations, days after advocating for strong action against drug cartels. The 40-year-old was shot by two gunmen in front of supporters, despite national guard presence. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum condemned the murder, highlighting the ongoing violence faced by officials in the region.

Canada considers mass cancellation of temporary visas issued to Indians: Report

The Canadian government is pursuing legislation to allow mass cancellations of temporary visas, targeting fraudulent applications from India. A presentation from immigration authorities highlighted challenges specific to India and Bangladesh. This proposed measure aims to strengthen border control amid increasing scrutiny of immigration, reflecting a broader trend of reduced intake and rising anti-immigration sentiment in Canada.

Trump Officials Torpedoed Nvidia’s Push to Export AI Chips to China

Before President Trump's meeting with Xi Jinping, he faced pressure regarding Nvidia's request to sell advanced AI chips to China. Top officials warned that such sales could threaten U.S. national security. Ultimately, Trump chose not to discuss the issue, prioritizing national security over Nvidia's interests, marking a significant policy stance against China's tech advancements.

A Mayor’s Assassination Reignites Mexico’s Debate Over Confronting Cartels

Carlos Manzo, the mayor of Uruapan, was assassinated during a Day of the Dead ceremony, highlighting the ongoing violence from criminal gangs in Michoacán. Known for his bold anti-extortion stance, Manzo's death has sparked public outrage and protests against the government, which faces pressure from the U.S. to combat cartel violence. His killing raises concerns about the return of vigilante groups.

Japan Is Overrun With Tourists. This City Wants More.

Japan's tourism is booming, with 32 million visitors in nine months, but cities like Nagoya feel overlooked amid overtourism in Kyoto and Osaka. Local officials want to attract more visitors while avoiding overcrowding issues. Nagoya, known for its industry and quieter vibe, aims to promote itself as a base for exploring Japan, despite its reputation for dullness.

Wrongfully jailed for 43 years, Indian-origin man's deportation stayed in US

Two US courts have halted the deportation of 64-year-old Indian-origin Subramanyam Vedam, who spent 40 years in prison before his murder conviction was overturned. Vedam, who moved to the US legally as an infant, is currently detained in a Louisiana holding center.

A Fight Over an African Leader’s Body Keeps Getting Weirder

The burial dispute over late Zambian President Edgar Lungu intensifies as a South African court rules for his remains to be repatriated to Zambia, despite his family's wishes to bury him in Johannesburg. Amidst political tensions, supporters celebrate the court's decision, co-opting an English soccer song to advocate for Lungu's return home, highlighting divisions within Zambia's political landscape.

Israel says no safe passage to be given to 200 Hamas terrorists in Rafah

Prime Minister Netanyahu's office denied reports of allowing 200 Hamas terrorists' safe passage into Gaza, reaffirming a stance on disarming Hamas. Israeli officials criticized any potential deal, insisting on either killing or imprisoning the fighters. Meanwhile, the IDF reported eliminating several terrorists, and the remains of three Israeli soldiers killed on October 7 were identified.

War is blasting Ukraine’s border city of Kharkiv but boosting Lviv

The war in Ukraine has dramatically shifted the dynamics between Kharkiv and Lviv. While Kharkiv faces decline due to ongoing conflict and a significant population drop, Lviv thrives as a growing hub for businesses and refugees, benefiting from its proximity to the EU. The disparity highlights the lasting impact of the war on Ukraine's geography and economy.

Will AI make dating apps better—or even worse?

Aleksandr Zhadan, a Moscow software developer, created an AI bot to interact with potential matches on Tinder, leading to 100 dates and a proposal. A recent study reveals that 25% of American singles use AI in dating, prompting apps like Tinder and Bumble to adopt AI tools. However, some users express concerns about authenticity in AI-driven courtships.

‘Analyzing my every move’: Erika Kirk breaks silence over JD Vance moment

Erika Kirk, widow of Charlie Kirk, addressed the backlash following her emotional embrace with Vice President JD Vance, emphasizing shared missions and respect. She criticized the attempt to remove cameras from her husband's assassination trial, advocating for transparency. Erika expressed the pain of public scrutiny while honoring her late husband, calling for openness in the proceedings.

Social Security COLA increase 2026: Benefits set to rise 2.8% in January— How much you could receive

The Social Security Administration has announced a 2.8% increase in monthly benefits for nearly 75 million Americans, effective January 2026. This adjustment, based on the Consumer Price Index, equates to an average of $56 more per month. While the increase is automatic, advocacy groups argue it may not keep pace with rising living costs for seniors.