Incoming New York mayor Zohran Mamdani has named Ramzi Kassem, a lawyer known for defending controversial clients, as chief counsel. The move signals a progressive direction for city leadership. Kassem says he is honored to serve the city he calls home.

Nvidia is nearing a deal to acquire Israeli AI startup AI21 Labs for up to $3 billion. The move aims to boost Nvidia's artificial intelligence capabilities and expand its footprint in Israel.

President Trump is keeping policy disagreements with Prime Minister Netanyahu private, opting for public praise to maintain strategic cooperation. This approach aims to advance United States interests in the Middle East while preserving political alliances at home.

Gary Lineker has called for the British Broadcasting Corporation to review how its leaders are appointed, citing concerns over government influence. He also shared his views on immigration and the situation in Gaza, while affirming he will not enter politics.

George Clooney criticized ABC and CBS for settling lawsuits with Donald Trump, saying they should have fought back. He expressed concern about media integrity and reiterated his call for President Biden to step down. Clooney now lives in France and remains outspoken on political issues.

An investigation reveals that Ilhan Omar's late father was a senior military officer under a Somali regime accused of genocide, challenging her public refugee narrative. The findings raise questions about her family's past and the accuracy of her memoir. Omar has dismissed scrutiny of her background as politically motivated.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces criticism after counterterrorism police review extremist social media posts by activist Alaa Abd El-Fattah, whom Starmer had welcomed to Britain. Abd El-Fattah has apologized for the posts, while the government investigates information failures in the case.

President Isaac Herzog has warned that a politically appointed probe into the October 7 attack could undermine the quest for truth. He called for an independent state commission of inquiry, echoing demands from bereaved families and opposition lawmakers. The government's decision has sparked widespread criticism and protests.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Bernie Sanders will headline the inauguration of New York City's first Muslim mayor, Zohran Mamdani, at a public block party. The event highlights a shift toward progressive leadership and comes amid controversy over Mamdani's and his allies' positions on Israel.

Rani Gvili's father met with US and Israeli leaders, urging continued efforts for his son's return from Gaza. He expressed hope and asked the public not to assume Rani's fate.

Israel will revoke the licenses of 37 aid groups working in Gaza, prompting international criticism over the potential impact on humanitarian services. Israeli officials say aid will continue through approved channels, while aid organizations warn the move could jeopardize essential support in the region.

United States and regional forces killed or captured nearly 25 Islamic State fighters in Syria after an ambush that killed American personnel. The operations reflect growing cooperation between the United States and Syria's new government. Officials say the goal is to eventually hand over security efforts to Syrian forces.