Israel and Hamas 'on the brink' of ceasefire
Israel and Hamas is close to a ceasefire agreement US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken announced the release of hostages in Gaza and there yesterday. “It's as close as it's ever been,” he said. “But now as we sit here we await the final word from Hamas on its acceptance. And until we receive this promise, we will remain on the edge of the abyss.”
Last night, a person with knowledge of the talks said Hamas appeared ready to accept the deal, including details on the exchange of Palestinian prisoners for hostages and specific actions by Israeli troops as they withdraw from positions in Gaza.
The person said Israel was also committed to the deal and that both sides were ready to announce their acceptance in the very near future. Neither Israeli nor Hamas officials have publicly confirmed their positions. Here's what we know about the offer.
Gaza: An analysis by The Lancet found that Palestinians died from bombs and other traumatic injuries 40 percent may be underestimated during the first nine months of the war.
The South Korean president was detained for questioning
Yoon Suk Yeol became the first sitting president of South Korea today detained for questioning after a deal was struck by criminal investigators that ended a week-long standoff with law enforcement. He was charged with sedition in connection with his declaration of a short-term martial law last month.
In a video message, Yoon said he agreed to the interrogation to prevent a “bloody” confrontation between his bodyguards and the police. But he called the investigation and the warrant for his arrest illegal. What you need to know about South Korea's leadership crisis.
Investigators have 48 hours to question Yoon, after which they can apply for a separate warrant for his formal arrest. Separately, the Constitutional Court is debating whether the National Assembly's Dec. 14 impeachment against Yun is legal and whether the now-suspended president should be permanently removed from office.
Republicans accepted Hexeth's offer to lead the Pentagon
Donald Trump's choice for Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth A tense confirmation hearing ensued Untouchable with the support of the Republican Party yesterday. A Senate vote on whether he should lead the Pentagon, which has three million employees and an $849 billion budget, could come as soon as Monday.
During hours of questioning, Democrats questioned Hegseth about sexual abuse allegations — Hegseth was accused of rape in 2017 — and his drinking habits. He has been called unfit to lead the Pentagon, and former Fox News host Hegsett has long been irked for making disparaging comments about women in the military.
What's next: It was unclear whether Hegseth left the hearing with the necessary votes. If all Democrats in the Senate oppose him, Hexett would need the support of at least 50 of the chamber's 53 Republicans.
Related: A report detailing the special counsel's investigation into Trump's attempt to overturn the 2020 election was released yesterday. Here are four takeaways.
MORE BREAKING NEWS
The Maha Kumbh Mela festival in India begins this week. Up to 400 million Hindu pilgrims are expected to gather on the banks of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers in what will be the world's largest gathering.
The ceremony is held every 12 years and is based on a series of holy baths. But it has also become an important political event. For Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this is a chance promoting a right-wing party.
24 hour canteen
All-night dining is a signature New York institution. But in the city that supposedly never sleeps, they disappear as costs rise and habits change.
Priya Krishna, a reporter for The Times, spent Friday night at Kellogg's Diner in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, eating non-stop from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. “Surprisingly, I didn't get any attention from the staff because I stayed for a few hours.” a heartwarming reminder that no other place will welcome you as unconditionally as an all-night diner.”
Read about Priya's pecan pie, lost treasures, and Michael Jackson's Thriller night.