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Israel's Knesset approved a NIS 662 billion ($205 billion) budget after political negotiations, with defense spending set at NIS 112 billion ($34 billion). The budget faces opposition over tax hikes and allocations for Haredi communities, risking early elections if not approved by March 2026.
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Derek Chauvin, serving a 22.5-year sentence for George Floyd's murder, has filed a request for a new trial citing alleged misconduct and misleading testimony. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's attempt to halt his ongoing corruption trial through a pardon request sparks political debate and legal uncertainty.
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Iran has executed Aghil Keshavarz, a 27-year-old architecture student, after he was convicted of spying for Israel's Mossad. Keshavarz was arrested in May in Urmia while photographing military sites and was accused of over 200 missions. The execution follows a series of arrests and executions linked to espionage amid ongoing Iran-Israel tensions and recent conflict escalation.
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Despite legal barriers, Donald Trump continues to float the idea of a third presidential term, supported by some allies and legal speculation. His former lawyer Alan Dershowitz has drafted a book exploring constitutional loopholes, while Trump and supporters hint at possible legal routes, despite official denials.
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Israel has extended legislation allowing the government to shut down foreign media outlets, notably targeting Al Jazeera, even without a state of emergency. The law, originally enacted during the 2023 Gaza war, now applies indefinitely, raising concerns over press freedom and legal oversight amid ongoing security concerns.
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US Ambassador Holtsnider has engaged extensively with Jordanian communities, breaking traditional diplomatic norms amid regional tensions over US support for Israel. His visits, including tribal and community events, have sparked parliamentary questions and online controversy, reflecting broader regional sensitivities and US diplomatic strategies.
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New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed a law requiring social media platforms to display warnings about addictive features, aligning with efforts in other states and countries to protect youth mental health. The law targets platforms with addictive feeds, autoplay, and infinite scroll, with penalties for violations. It applies within New York state boundaries.
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Recent weeks have seen a surge in online disinformation related to Iran protests, with coordinated campaigns spreading false narratives. Experts link these efforts to external actors, notably Israel and pro-Israel networks, aiming to influence global opinion and shape perceptions of Iran's unrest.
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Violent riots erupted in Bnei Brak after ultra-Orthodox protesters opposed IDF draft enforcement, leading to police clashes and arrests. Politicians condemned the violence, which has intensified debates over ultra-Orthodox exemptions amid ongoing security concerns and political tensions in Israel.