First Thing: Israel continues to commit genocide by targeting children in Gaza, UN inquiry finds
UN Inquiry Concludes Israel's Actions in Gaza Amount to Genocide
First Thing - In a recent development, an independent United Nations investigation has concluded that Israel’s military operations in Gaza constitute genocide, emphasizing the deliberate targeting of Palestinian children as a key factor. The inquiry, led by the international commission of inquiry, scrutinized attacks on minors since the onset of the conflict, revealing that roughly 30% of those killed were children. This finding underscores a pattern of systematic violence, with the commission asserting that Israeli forces intentionally focused on civilian targets, including children, throughout the war.
A prior report from the same commission, issued in September, had already declared Israel responsible for genocide in Gaza, citing the role of government officials such as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in inciting these actions. Netanyahu, who is also facing charges from the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes, has yet to formally address the latest findings. The report details how children were specifically targeted even after a ceasefire was implemented in October 2025, challenging the notion that the conflict had eased.
"The evidence demonstrates that Israeli security forces have consistently targeted Palestinian children during the war, including in the aftermath of the October 2025 ceasefire," stated Srinivasan Muralidhar, chair of the commission, in a statement accompanying the report.
The Israeli government has dismissed the inquiry as a "libellous sham," according to its mission in Geneva. Officials have vigorously defended their actions, while receiving strong backing from allies such as the United States and the United Kingdom. This support highlights the geopolitical tensions surrounding the report and the potential implications for international law.
Legal and Human Rights Perspectives
Legal scholars and human rights organizations have compiled extensive research supporting the claim that Israel’s actions aim to destroy the Palestinian population. Analysts from the UN, alongside groups like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have highlighted the systematic nature of these attacks. Genocide experts worldwide have further analyzed the situation, reinforcing the argument that the targeting of children is a critical element of the broader strategy.
The inquiry's findings align with ongoing debates about the legality of Israel's military conduct. Critics argue that the government's focus on minimizing casualties has been undermined by the consistent targeting of minors. This has sparked discussions about the role of international law in holding states accountable for actions that may constitute genocide.
Political Shifts in New York City
Meanwhile, Zohran Mamdani, the progressive mayor of New York City, has solidified his influence over the Democratic Party through strategic endorsements in recent primaries. On Tuesday, three candidates backed by Mamdani secured decisive victories in key races, demonstrating the impact of his political maneuvering. The mayor, who has been a vocal advocate for social justice, used his political capital to support left-leaning allies, expanding his movement's reach and altering the composition of the state's congressional delegation.
Among the notable winners was Brad Lander, a former comptroller, who defeated an incumbent Democrat in a closely contested race. Claire Valdez, a state legislator and union organizer, also emerged victorious, unseating a prominent successor to a retiring representative. Darializa Avila Chevalier, a public defense investigator, toppled a long-serving five-term incumbent, marking a significant shift in political dynamics. These results reflect the growing support for progressive policies in the region.
Senate's War Powers Resolution
On a separate front, the U.S. Senate passed a war powers resolution aimed at curbing President Donald Trump's ability to engage in military actions against Iran. The measure, which garnered a 50-48 vote, represents a symbolic yet significant rebuke of Trump's policies, particularly in light of public dissatisfaction with the ongoing conflict. Four Republican senators, including Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, Bill Cassidy, and Rand Paul, defied their party to back the resolution, while John Fetterman was the sole Democrat to oppose it.
The resolution, which had already cleared the House of Representatives earlier this month, requires the president to seek congressional approval before launching military strikes against Iran. Although it does not necessitate the president's signature, its passage has intensified discussions about the constitutionality of the 1973 War Powers Act. This move signals growing internal dissent within the Republican Party and highlights the legislative efforts to rein in executive power.
Other Developments
Meanwhile, in Texas, a group of protesters convicted of terrorism charges faced unprecedentedly severe penalties, receiving sentences of at least 50 years in prison. The case has been framed as a test of the Trump administration's approach to curbing dissent, with critics arguing that the sentences are disproportionately harsh. The verdict has raised concerns about the balance between national security and civil liberties in the state.
Separately, the U.S. secretary of state, Marco Rubio, announced plans to prevent any country from imposing tolls on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, during a visit to Abu Dhabi to meet with Gulf allies. This move reflects efforts to secure economic stability in the region. In Nebraska, eight Americans quarantined for six weeks due to a hantavirus outbreak were released on Monday, after being exposed to the virus during their isolation.
Kenya’s health minister faced legal consequences for ignoring previous orders to halt the operation of a U.S.-run Ebola quarantine facility. After being held in contempt, he was compelled to prepare for the facility’s shutdown, adding to the complexities of international health cooperation. Finally, Donald Trump claimed he would enhance the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool’s appearance, but a $14.7 million renovation resulted in a massive algae bloom, turning the pool green. “It also stank,” remarked Davi, a local observer, highlighting the unexpected outcome of the project.