Netanyahu: Israel Continues Fight in Gaza Against Hamas

DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated on Saturday that Israel has "no choice" but to persist in its military operations in Gaza. He emphasized that hostilities would not cease until Hamas is dismantled, hostages are freed, and the territory poses no further threat to Israel. Netanyahu's comments came amidst rising pressure from families of hostages, as well as from Israeli reservists and retired soldiers questioning the ongoing conflict following the collapse of a ceasefire last month.

In his speech, Netanyahu noted that Hamas had rejected Israel's recent proposal to release half of the hostages in exchange for a continued ceasefire. His remarks followed reports of intensified Israeli airstrikes that claimed the lives of over 90 individuals in just 48 hours, according to Gaza's Health Ministry. Among the casualties were children and women, with at least 11 deaths reported in the southern city of Khan Younis, where several victims were found in a tent designated as a humanitarian zone for displaced individuals.

Ukraine Skeptical of Putin's Easter Ceasefire amid Largest Prisoner Exchange

CHERNIHIV REGION, Ukraine (AP) — Ukraine expressed skepticism regarding Russian President Vladimir Putin's declaration of a temporary Easter truce, which commenced on Saturday. Ukrainian officials indicated that they would reciprocate any genuine ceasefire from Moscow but remained wary of Putin's motives. The ceasefire was announced to last from 6 p.m. Moscow time on Saturday to midnight following Easter Sunday. Putin did not provide details on the monitoring of the ceasefire or its implications for ongoing airstrikes and ground battles.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine would mirror any genuine effort for a full and unconditional ceasefire, emphasizing the importance of revealing Moscow's true intentions, particularly during the significant Easter period. The backdrop of these diplomatic moves saw Russia and Ukraine conduct their largest prisoner exchange since the onset of the conflict over three years ago.

US and Iran Progress in Nuclear Program Discussions

ROME (AP) — In diplomatic developments, Iran and the United States reported progress in negotiations concerning Tehran's fast-advancing nuclear program, with plans for further discussions scheduled for next week. A significant moment in the talks occurred in Rome when U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi engaged in direct discussions.

As the countries prepare to meet again in Oman on April 26, Araghchi mentioned that technical-level talks would take place in the upcoming days. The nature of these expert discussions indicates a potential movement towards a deal, coinciding with President Donald Trump's push for a rapid agreement while simultaneously threatening military action against Iran.

Vatican Meeting Addresses Migrants and International Conflicts

VATICAN CITY (AP) — U.S. Vice President JD Vance had a meeting with the Vatican's Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, on Saturday, focusing on current international conflicts alongside the issues concerning migrants and prisoners. Despite reaffirming good relations, the Vatican expressed concerns regarding the U.S. stance on migrants and its implications for international aid, advocating for peaceful resolutions in both the Ukraine and Gaza conflicts.

Vance’s office highlighted dialogue regarding shared religious values, the challenges faced by persecuted Christian communities, and President Trump’s commitment to global peace. The Holy See has maintained a position of cautious engagement with the Trump administration, particularly in light of its policies towards immigrants.

DEI Rollbacks Affecting Campus Support for Students of Color

WASHINGTON (AP) — As U.S. colleges roll back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, students of color report the erosion of support systems that foster welcoming environments on predominantly white campuses. This retreat has been escalating in response to directives from Republican-led states aimed at closing DEI offices and programs.

Students like Breeana-Iris Rosario from the University of Michigan have witnessed firsthand the closure of DEI resources and articulated a sense of regression, stating, "It feels like we’re going back." The response to these policies has raised alarm about the impact on the sense of community and accessibility within higher education.

Former President Clinton Commemorates 30th Anniversary of Oklahoma City Bombing

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — On the 30th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing, which killed 168 people, including 19 children, former President Bill Clinton returned to commemorate the victims. Speaking at a remembrance ceremony near the Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum, Clinton recalled the profound grief experienced by the community at the time and reaffirmed the nation's commitment to supporting those affected.

Reflecting on his presidency during the crisis, Clinton emphasized the resilience and unity that followed the tragic event. His continued visits to the memorial over the years highlight the lasting impact of the tragedy on his life and the collective memory of the nation.

Investigation into Pentagon Leak Leads to High-Profile Departures

WASHINGTON (AP) — Three senior aides of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth were ousted amid an investigation into alleged information leaks, prompting them to voice opposition against what they termed "baseless attacks." The aides, who were previously placed on leave, have now formally exited their positions.

Caldwell, Carroll, and Selnick expressed disappointment in the manner and lack of clarity surrounding their dismissal. The investigation, which also led to the resignation of former Pentagon spokesman John Ullyot, has prompted allegations regarding the justification and transparency of the proceedings.

Shohei Ohtani Becomes a Father

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers' star player, announced the birth of his daughter through a post on social media. Both Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and Ohtani's teammates celebrated the news during an in-game interview, with Roberts expressing excitement, thanking the star while noting he was unaware of the baby’s name.

Ohtani, who missed the initial games of the series due to this personal milestone, awaited rejoining his team in the final match against the Texas Rangers.

Supreme Court Blocks Deportations Under Wartime Law

The Supreme Court has temporarily halted the deportation of Venezuelans detained in northern Texas under an 18th-century wartime law, responding to an emergency appeal from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). The court's decision ensures that individuals are not removed until further notice, addressing concerns regarding due process and the abrupt application of the Alien Enemies Act of 1798.

By preventing these deportations, the ACLU expressed relief, highlighting concerns over the potential loss of lives without the opportunity for legal recourse.