Israel's security cabinet approves plan to take control of Gaza City

Israel’s security cabinet has approved a plan to seize control of Gaza City, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed. The majority of ministers rejected an alternative strategy, citing doubts it would defeat Hamas or secure the release of hostages, BBC reported.

The UN warned the operation could lead to catastrophic consequences, while families of hostages expressed fears for their loved ones’ safety. The decision comes amid growing international calls for an end to the conflict and increased humanitarian aid access.

The conflict began after Hamas’s October 7 attack, which killed around 1,200 Israelis and took 251 hostages. Since then, over 61,000 Palestinians have died in Israel’s military offensive, according to Gaza’s health ministry. Access for international media to Gaza remains heavily restricted, according to BBC.

 

Trump calls for Intel CEO to resign over China links

Donald Trump has urged Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan to resign immediately, citing concerns over Tan’s investments in companies linked to the Chinese military. Tan, who joined Intel earlier this year to help revive the company, has faced criticism from Republican lawmakers over national security risks, according to BBC.

Intel defended Tan, stressing their commitment to US security and ongoing domestic investments. Experts believe Trump’s attack may also relate to tensions over Intel’s US manufacturing plans.

Following Trump’s comments, Intel’s shares fell more than 3 percent. With US chip production a key priority, industry watchers say stable leadership is vital for Intel’s future growth, BBC reported.

 

US offers $50m reward for arrest of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro

The US has raised its reward for information leading to Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro’s arrest to $50m, accusing him of major drug trafficking, according to BBC.

Attorney General Pam Bondi linked Maduro to cocaine smuggling and criminal gangs like Tren de Aragua and the Sinaloa Cartel. The DEA says it seized large amounts of cocaine connected to him.

Maduro denies the charges. He returned to power after a disputed election earlier this year. The US has long accused him of drug trafficking and corruption, increasing tensions between the two countries.

Former Venezuelan intelligence chief Hugo Carvajal was recently convicted on drug charges in the US, raising speculation of cooperation against Maduro, BBC reported.

Trump opens door for crypto in retirement accounts

Trump has ordered regulators to explore ways to let Americans invest their 401(k) savings in assets like cryptocurrencies, private equity, property, and gold. The move seeks to give everyday workers access to investments usually limited to the wealthy, according to BBC.

While some major firms are already preparing private equity retirement funds, critics warn this could increase risks for savers. The Department of Labor has 180 days to review rules, but any changes won’t happen right away.

This follows recent rollbacks of previous guidance that cautioned against including crypto and private equity in retirement plans, BBC reported.