WATCH: Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: “Hamas is responsible for this war. It invaded our towns, murdered our people, raped our women and kidnapped our loved ones. Hamas refused offer after offer to release our hostages. In the past two weeks, Israel did not initiate any military action in the hope that Hamas would change course. Well, that didn’t happen….”
A heartbreaking tragedy has shaken the Lakewood community, as a 4-month-old infant was niftar after being accidentally left in a vehicle near 5th Street and Princeton Avenue on Tuesday afternoon, leaving residents in shock and mourning. Hatzolah of Central Jersey responded swiftly to the scene shortly before 1:30 PM, where paramedics worked tirelessly to save the child’s life. The infant was urgently transported to Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus in Lakewood, but despite all efforts, the child was tragically Niftar. Details surrounding the incident remain limited at this time. Additional information, including levaya arrangements, will be shared with the tzibbur as soon as they are made available. Baruch Dayan HaEmmes… (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)
A federal judge orders Elon Musk and DOGE officials to reinstate basically all of USAID’s functionality, stating that DOGE’s efforts likely violated the Constitution in multiple ways.
Measles outbreaks in West Texas and New Mexico are now up to nearly 320 cases, and two unvaccinated people have died from measles-related causes. Measles is caused by a highly contagious virus that’s airborne and spreads easily when an infected person breathes, sneezes or coughs. It is preventable through vaccines, and has been considered eliminated from the U.S. since 2000. As of Friday, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said its count of confirmed measles cases in the U.S. surpassed 2024. Here’s what else you need to know about measles in the U.S. How many measles cases are there in Texas and New Mexico? Texas state health officials said Tuesday there were 20 new cases of measles since last week, bringing the total to 279 across 11 counties — most in West Texas. Two more people were hospitalized, for a total of 36. New Mexico health officials announced three new cases Tuesday, bringing the state’s total to 38. Most of the cases are in Lea County, where two people have been hospitalized, and the other cases are in Eddy County. Oklahoma’s state health department reported two probable cases of measles last week, saying they are “associated” with the West Texas and New Mexico outbreaks. A school-age child died of measles in Texas last month, and New Mexico reported its first measles-related death in an adult last week. Where else is measles showing up in the U.S.? Measles cases have been reported in Alaska, California, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines an outbreak as three or more related cases — and there have been three clusters that qualified as outbreaks in 2025. In the U.S., cases and outbreaks are generally traced to someone who caught the disease abroad. It can then spread, especially in communities with low vaccination rates. In 2019, the U.S. saw 1,274 cases and almost lost its status of having eliminated measles. Do you need an MMR booster? The best way to avoid measles is to get the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. The first shot is recommended for children between 12 and 15 months old and the second between 4 and 6 years old. People at high risk for infection who got the shots many years ago may want to consider getting a booster if they live in an area with an outbreak, said Scott Weaver with the Global Virus Network, an international coalition. Those may include family members living with someone who has measles or those especially vulnerable to respiratory diseases because of underlying medical conditions. Adults with “presumptive evidence of immunity” generally don’t need measles shots now, the CDC said. Criteria include written documentation of adequate vaccination earlier in life, lab confirmation of past infection or being born before 1957, when most people were likely to be infected naturally. A doctor can order a lab test called an MMR titer to check your levels of measles antibodies, but health experts don’t always recommend this route and insurance coverage can vary. Getting another MMR shot is harmless if there are concerns about waning immunity, the CDC says. People who have documentation of receiving a live measles vaccine in the 1960s don’t need to be revaccinated, but people who were immunized before 1968 with an ineffective measles […]
Attorney General Pam Bondi: “If you’re gonna touch a Tesla, go to a dealership, do anything, you better watch out ’cause we’re coming after you and if you are funding this, we’re coming after you.”
After conducting a situational assessment this evening, the IDF Homefront Command has decided to relax restrictions for communities in Southern Israel near the Gaza Strip, shifting from “Limited Activity” to “Partial Activity.” This change permits schools and other educational activities to resume, provided they are located close to a protected area.
TEARS FOR TERRORISTS: Columbia University tells students it is “heartbroken” that DHS raided university residences as the Trump administration cracks down on terror supporters ginning up chaos and antisemitism on American college campuses. *(Shout-out to YWN’ers Nossy & Yehuda)*
BREAKING: The Houthis just released a totally bogus statement: “We targeted the Nevatim Air Base with a Palestine 2 hypersonic ballistic missile, which successfully achieved its target.” Per the IDF the missile was shot down by the long-range Arrow air defense system outside of Israel.
IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir visited troops in southern Gaza’s Rafah earlier today, as the military launched a surprise aerial bombing campaign against Hamas. “Your mission is to protect the communities here. We are in an ongoing action against Hamas, alongside a full commitment to return the hostages,” Zamir says.
Dreaming of going to Harvard University? Well, the university has made things a little easier with an announcement Monday that students whose families make less than $200,000 won’t pay tuition. The university said the plan goes into effect for the 2025-2026 academic year and is aimed at making Harvard more affordable, especially for middle income students. Those students could also get additional financial aid to cover other expenses. “Putting Harvard within financial reach for more individuals widens the array of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives that all of our students encounter, fostering their intellectual and personal growth,” Harvard University President Alan Garber said in a statement. “By bringing people of outstanding promise together to learn with and from one another, we truly realize the tremendous potential of the University.” Garber said the plan also means students whose families make less than $100,000 will pay nothing, meaning their tuition as well as other expenses like food and housing will be covered. As a result, the university estimates that going forward nearly 90% of families in the United States whose children are accepted will qualify for some form of financial aid. “Harvard has long sought to open our doors to the most talented students, no matter their financial circumstances,” Hopi Hoekstra, the Edgerley Family Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, said. “This investment in financial aid aims to make a Harvard College education possible for every admitted student, so they can pursue their academic passions and positively impact our future.” The announcement is the latest from an elite higher education institution offering tuition breaks and comes as the rising cost of higher education has some questioning whether college is worth the price. Surveys find that Americans are increasingly skeptical about the value of a degree, and the percentage of high school graduates heading to college has fallen to levels not seen in decades, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Yet research still finds that, over time, a degree pays off. Americans with a bachelor’s degree earn a median of $2.8 million during their careers, 75% more than if they had only a high school diploma, according to research from Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce. The rising tuition at private institutions — increasing 4% over the past decade — has led to several big name institutions offering similar deals to Harvard’s. In November, MIT announced that students whose families make less than $200,000 will be able to attend tuition-free this fall. Similarly to Harvard, students whose families make less than $100,000 will pay nothing at all. Those income limits are from previous limits of $140,000 and $75,000 respectively. “The cost of college is a real concern for families across the board,” MIT President Sally Kornbluth said. “We’re determined to make this transformative educational experience available to the most talented students, whatever their financial circumstances. So, to every student out there who dreams of coming to MIT: Don’t let concerns about cost stand in your way.” UMass announced in October that Massachusetts students whose families make up to $75,000 will be able to attend all four undergraduate campuses tuition-free. The University of Michigan announced in December that in-state undergraduate students whose families have incomes and assets up to $125,000 will attend tuition free. (AP)
The Orthodox Jewish community, along with the broader Brooklyn South neighborhoods, is warmly welcoming NYPD Lieutenant Duran McLean as the newly assigned Community Affairs Lieutenant for Patrol Borough Brooklyn South. Lieutenant McLean brings years of experience and a deep commitment to community service to this vital role, overseeing all community affairs officers and supervisors in the borough. Lieutenant McLean’s journey with the NYPD began in 2008 when he joined as a police officer assigned to Brooklyn Transit. He was later specially assigned to Transit District 34, serving the neighborhoods of Coney Island, Bensonhurst, Sheepshead Bay, and Midwood. His dedication and skill earned him a promotion to Sergeant in 2013, where he was assigned to the 71st Precinct covering Crown Heights. In 2021, he was promoted to Lieutenant and assigned to the 70th Precinct, which includes Midwood and Flatbush—areas with significant Jewish populations. By 2022, he was designated as the Field Training Lieutenant, overseeing the 66, 70, and 71 Precincts. Now, in his current role, Lieutenant McLean oversees all community affairs officers and supervisors assigned to the Community Affairs Bureau, working out of the 60, 61, 62, 63, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 76, 78, and Patrol Borough Brooklyn South Commands. Community leaders and NYPD clergy liaisons have expressed overwhelming support for Lieutenant McLean’s appointment. NYPD Clergy Liaison David Heskiel said, “I’ve known Lieutenant McLean for a few years and I’ve seen him in action. He has a very strong work ethic, and he’s extremely community-oriented. We’re fortunate to have him in Brooklyn South, and I look forward to more great things to come.” NYPD Deputy Chief Richie Taylor echoed this sentiment, stating, “I’ve known Lieutenant Duran McLean for many years and he has an exemplary reputation. I’m proud to have Lieutenant McLean on our community affairs team in Brooklyn South, and I know he’ll work hard on behalf of the community every day.” NYPD Clergy Liaison Avrumi Brown added, “I’ve been working with the NYPD for decades, and it’s always a pleasure to work with Lieutenant McLean. He is a consummate professional, a great friend, and I look forward to accomplishing many more great things together with him.” NYPD Clergy Liaison Rafi Treitel welcomed Lieutenant McLean’s return to the borough, saying, “On behalf of the community, we welcome Lieutenant McLean’s return to the Boro. It has been a pleasure working with him in the past, and we look forward to it once again.” NYPD Clergy Liaison Rev. Dr. Terry Lee offered high praise, noting, “Lieutenant McLean to me is an unsung hero. He goes above and beyond the call of duty. He is like a star who shines in the middle of the day. Thank you, NYPD, for assigning him to this important position.” Lieutenant McLean’s appointment has been met with enthusiasm across Brooklyn South’s diverse communities, including the Orthodox Jewish neighborhoods that rely on strong NYPD partnerships. On behalf of the entire community, we extend a heartfelt welcome to Lieutenant Duran McLean as our new Community Affairs Lieutenant. We thank the NYPD for assigning such a dedicated officer as a tremendous resource and look forward to working closely with him and his team to ensure the safety and well-being of Brooklyn South’s residents. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)
Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu is expected to speak to the nation this evening at 8:00pm local time, delivering his address from the Defense Headquarters located at the Kirya in Tel-Aviv.
Chuck Schumer mocks Americans who want to keep more of their money: “Their attitude is, ‘I made my money all by myself. How dare your government take my money from me?'”
BREAKING: Israel’s UN Ambassador sends a strong message—Hamas must face the consequences. Danny Danon warns the UN: If you want the war to end, demand Hamas release the hostages. Until then, Israel will not stop.
The IDF and Shin Bet (ISA) confirmed on Tuesday that they have eliminated Essam al-Da’alis, the most senior Hamas official in Gaza, in a relentless wave of precision airstrikes Monday night. The head of the Hamas government, the man who orchestrated terror and controlled the group’s iron grip over Gaza, is no more. Over the past 24 hours, Israeli forces rained destruction upon dozens of terror compounds and high-ranking operatives, striking at the very heart of Hamas’ leadership. Al-Da’alis, the architect of Hamas’ governance and terror operations, rose to power after his predecessor, Rawhi Mushtaha, was wiped out in July 2024. From behind the scenes, he wielded control over Hamas’ military and political machine, ensuring its every function served one purpose—terror. Now, his reign has ended in fire and smoke. The Israeli onslaught didn’t stop with him. Intelligence reports confirm with high probability that three additional top Hamas officials met their end in the operation: Mahmoud Marzouk Ahmed Abu-Watfa – The so-called Minister of Internal Affairs, responsible for Hamas’ Internal Security Forces, which enforced terror and brutality across Gaza. Bahajat Hassan Mohammed Abu-Sultan – The head of Hamas’ Internal Security Forces, a key figure in ensuring Hamas’ oppressive rule and violent attacks. Ahmed Amar Abdullah Alhata – Hamas’ Minister of Justice, who twisted the law to serve terrorism. “The IDF will continue to operate until Hamas is no longer a threat to the people of Israel,” the military declared. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)
U.S. births rose slightly last year, but experts don’t see it as evidence of reversing a long-term decline. A little over 3.6 million births were reported for 2024, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention preliminary data. That’s 22,250 more than the final tally of 2023 U.S. births, which was released Tuesday. The 2024 total is likely to grow at least a little when the numbers are finalized, but another set of preliminary data shows overall birth rates rose only for one group of people: Hispanic women. The rise — less than 1% — may just be a small fluctuation in the middle of a broader trend, said Hans-Peter Kohler, a University of Pennsylvania sociologist who studies family demographics. “I’d be hesitant to read much into the 2023-24 increase, and certainly not as an indication of a reversal of the trend towards lower or declining U.S. fertility,” Kohler said, adding that more analysis is needed to understand any changes that happened in birth patterns last year. U.S. births and birth rates have been falling for years. They dropped most years after the 2008-09 recession, aside from a 2014 uptick. They also dropped in 2020, the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, then rose for two straight years after that, an increase experts partly attributed to pregnancies put off amid the pandemic. A 2% drop in 2023 put U.S. births at fewer than 3.6 million, the lowest one-year tally since 1979. Vermont had the lowest birth rate that year, and Utah had the highest, according to Tuesday’s 86-page report on 2023 birth data. The report, based on a review of all the birth certificates filed that year, shows the average age of mothers at first birth has continued to rise, hitting 27 1/2 years. It was 21 1/2 in the early 1970s, before beginning a steady climb. Birth rates have long been falling for teenagers and younger women, but were rising for women in their 30s and 40s — a reflection of women pursuing education and careers before trying to start families, experts say. But in 2023, birth rates fell for women in almost all age groups, include women in their early 40s. Preliminary birth rate data for 2024 shows a continued decrease among teenagers and women in their early 20s. But it also showed increases for women in their late 20s, due entirely to a rise in births to Hispanic women. Increases also were seen for women in their 30s, due to rises among Hispanic and white women, and those in their 40s, due to rises among white women. (AP)
