Netanyahu Disbands Israeli War Cabinet

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel has disbanded the war cabinet formed in response to the Hamas-led assault on Israel in October. The decision follows the resignation of two key members, Benny Gantz and Gadi Eisenkot, due to disagreements over the war’s direction. The five-member body’s dissolution is largely symbolic. Major decisions will now be handled by a separate security cabinet, and Netanyahu will rely on an informal group of advisors for important military decisions. Recently, the Israeli military paused operations in parts of southern Gaza during daylight hours to facilitate aid delivery.

Putin Visits North Korea

Russian President Vladimir Putin commenced a two-day state visit to North Korea amid growing military ties between the two nations. With Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, the country seeks ammunition supplies, which North Korea can provide. During a visit to Russia in September, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un toured space and military facilities, highlighting their technological collaboration. Despite both countries’ denials, allegations of arms trading persist, which violates U.N. sanctions. Putin last visited North Korea in the year 2000.

U.S. Surgeon General Proposes Social Media Warning Labels

Dr. Vivek Murthy, the U.S. Surgeon General, announced plans to advocate for legislation requiring social media platforms to display warning labels indicating potential harm to teenagers’ mental health. The initiative aims to inform parents about the risks, akin to the labels on tobacco and alcohol products. The proposal is still in the early stages, with no legislation currently announced.

China Investigates EU Pork Dumping

China’s Ministry of Commerce has launched an anti-dumping investigation into European Union pork imports, focusing on imports in 2023. The probe is a response to claims that the EU has been dumping low-priced pork and pig by-products, adversely affecting China’s domestic industry. This move comes shortly after the EU imposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicle shipments, escalating trade tensions. The investigation reflects Beijing’s strategy to pressure the EU to reconsider these tariffs.

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