Stories that are getting the most attention from our readers this week.
A deepening humanitarian disaster grips Gaza, with continued Israeli bombardments and a protracted blockade endangering civilians. Local health officials report mounting casualties, including children, as drone strikes and critical shortages push the enclave closer to famine. International legal bodies are scrutinizing whether Israel’s actions breach international obligations, while calls for a ceasefire intensify. Meanwhile, a US Treasury inspector general is investigating possible misuse of private taxpayer data by President Trump or his allies. Allegations suggest the White House or the new Department of Government Efficiency might have sought sensitive IRS records on political rivals. Both situations underline escalating concerns about human rights and civil liberties, whether in a war-torn region or within the realm of domestic governance.
Serious threats toward U.S. federal judges more than doubled from 2021 to 2023, with many aimed at women jurists, reports The 19th. Judges cite social-media attacks and high-profile political criticism as accelerants; a new judiciary task force will assess security gaps.