A recent poll by The New York Times and Siena University reveals a historic shift in American attitudes toward Israel. Nearly two years into Israel’s Gaza offensive, support among US voters has dropped dramatically, with many opposing additional American financial and military aid. While 47% backed Israel after Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack, new data shows only 34% still support Israel, compared to 35% siding with Palestinians, and 31% choosing neutrality. Six in ten Americans now want Israel to stop the war even without freeing all hostages or defeating Hamas. Almost 40% believe Israel is deliberately killing civilians in Gaza—double last year’s number. The survey, conducted in English and Spanish with 1,313 respondents nationwide, highlights a record-breaking anti-Israel sentiment not seen since polling began in 1998, with sympathy increasingly tilting toward Palestinians.

YouTube has agreed to a $24.5 million settlement to resolve former President Donald Trump’s lawsuit over the suspension of his account following the January 6 Capitol riot. Court filings show $22 million will be donated to the National Mall Trust for a White House ballroom project, while $2.5 million will go to other plaintiffs, including the American Conservative Union and author Naomi Wolf. YouTube, owned by Alphabet, admitted no wrongdoing, saying the deal was meant to avoid further litigation costs. The move follows multimillion-dollar settlements between Trump and Meta, X, ABC News, and Paramount Global. Experts warn such settlements undermine consistent content moderation standards, raising concerns over tech platforms’ political alignment and influence. The case highlights ongoing clashes between Trump and media companies over alleged censorship since the 2020 election and January 6 events.

The Trump administration’s steep increase in H-1B visa fees has shattered the aspirations of countless young Indians hoping to build careers in the US. Once costing around $2,000, visa expenses now reach up to $100,000, forcing employers to spend nearly $160,000 per hire. As a result, many US companies are turning to local workers, shrinking opportunities for Indian talent. Experts warn that IT, software, healthcare, and project management sectors will face major setbacks. Students and professionals feel targeted and unwelcome, while Indian government officials encourage skilled workers to return home. However, many may choose alternatives like Canada, Australia, or Europe. Analysts stress that this policy could harm not only Indian professionals but also America’s own economic growth and innovation ecosystem, with long-term consequences for the global tech industry.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has tabled a 20-point plan to end hostilities in Gaza, receiving immediate approval from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Trump warned that if Hamas rejects the terms, the U.S. will fully back Israel’s military actions. Key provisions include:

Immediate ceasefire upon mutual agreement.

Israeli troops to pull back to designated lines for prisoner exchanges.

Suspension of all military operations, including airstrikes and artillery fire.

Hamas must release all hostages—alive or dead—within 72 hours.

In exchange, Israel to release 250 prisoners serving life terms and 1,700 detainees held since October 7, 2023.

Amnesty for Hamas members who surrender arms and accept coexistence, while safe passage will be arranged for those wishing to leave Gaza.

Massive humanitarian aid to flow into Gaza once the deal is signed.
The plan also proposes a temporary transitional administration led by a non-political Palestinian technocratic committee, overseen by a new international body, the Board of Peace. Trump would serve as chairman, joined by former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair and other leaders.

The United States has announced a 100% tariff on all branded and patented pharmaceutical imports from October 1, 2025, unless companies establish production facilities in the country. President Trump stated this move aims to boost domestic manufacturing and reduce the budget deficit. India, whose pharmaceutical exports to the U.S. reached $8.7 billion in 2023–24, could face significant costs and negative impacts on its drug exports. Analysts warn the policy may severely strain India’s pharmaceutical industry.

U.S. President Donald Trump said he will not allow Israel to annex the occupied West Bank, stressing that such a move is unacceptable. Speaking ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s UN address, Trump noted that a deal on Gaza is “very close.” Global pressure is mounting on Israel to end the Gaza war and halt West Bank annexation, with the UK, Germany, and the UN warning of severe consequences. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas urged support for the French peace plan.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump declared that Israel would not be permitted to annex the Palestinian West Bank, while suggesting that a settlement over Gaza could be reached soon.
Speaking at the White House on Thursday, ahead of Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu’s scheduled UN address, Trump said: “I will not allow Israel to annex the West Bank… it simply won’t happen.”
His remarks come as several Western nations formally recognize Palestine as an independent state. The UN Secretary-General warned that annexation would be “morally, legally, and politically unacceptable.” Meanwhile, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas expressed willingness to work with world leaders on France’s proposed peace plan.

French President Emmanuel Macron’s motorcade was halted in New York after police blocked several roads for U.S. President Donald Trump’s convoy, according to The Guardian.

Caught in the security lockdown, Macron reportedly phoned Trump directly to resolve the situation. The blockade was lifted shortly afterward.

However, Macron was forced to abandon his vehicle and proceed the rest of the way on foot.

France has officially recognized Palestine as a state, joining a growing list of Western nations.

The announcement came at a high-level meeting in New York, where Andorra, Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, and Monaco also declared recognition. The UK had made its recognition just a day earlier.

French President Emmanuel Macron stated:

“We are here today because the time has come. It is our responsibility to do everything possible to uphold a two-state solution. Today I announce that France recognizes the State of Palestine.”

Spain, Norway, and Ireland extended recognition last year. Spain has also imposed sanctions on Israel over the war in Gaza. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said:

“When a people are subjected to genocide, a two-state solution becomes impossible. For the sake of reason, law, and human dignity, this massacre must end.”

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas addressed the Assembly via video message.

The main session of the UN’s 80th General Assembly begins today, with the world leaders’ debate running until Saturday.

Tradition dictates that Brazil will be the first to speak, followed by the United States and others. This year’s Assembly is chaired by German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and will see participation from leaders of 140 nations.

Palestinian statehood recognition is expected to dominate discussions, alongside the Russia-Ukraine war, sustainable development, the global energy crisis, and climate change. The session concludes on September 30.

Several Western nations, including the UK, Australia, Canada, and Portugal, formally recognized the State of Palestine on September 21, marking a historic shift in foreign policy. Israel condemned the move, while the U.S. criticized it as mere “showmanship,” emphasizing priorities like hostage release, Israeli security, and regional peace. Palestinians in Gaza welcomed it as a victory. Netanyahu reaffirmed that no Palestinian state will be established west of the Jordan River. Other countries may announce recognition at the upcoming UN General Assembly.

U.S. President Donald Trump has demanded Afghanistan’s Taliban government return the Bagram airbase, warning of “terrible consequences” if they refuse. In posts on Truth Social and remarks at the White House, Trump insisted the airbase must be handed back immediately, hinting at undisclosed action if demands are ignored. He earlier revealed during a UK trip that talks are underway to regain Bagram. Trump has long criticized its loss, citing its strategic importance and alleging growing Chinese influence in Afghanistan.

U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke by phone for 90 minutes, agreeing to meet in South Korea next month. Trump described the talk as constructive and praised Xi’s cooperation. He said he would visit China next year, followed by Xi’s U.S. trip. The leaders are expected to discuss TikTok ownership and trade. Recently, Washington and Beijing reached a preliminary deal allowing U.S. investors to hold at least 80% of TikTok shares, ensuring its operations in America.

A U.S. federal judge has dismissed Donald Trump’s $15 billion defamation lawsuit against The New York Times, publisher Penguin, and two reporters, calling it overly long, insulting, and procedurally flawed. The complaint, stretching 85 pages with just two defamation claims, was deemed inappropriate. Trump alleged the defendants acted as Democratic mouthpieces and published false claims about his business, education, and family wealth. The judge allowed him 28 days to refile. The Times dismissed the suit as intimidation of the press.

The Trump administration has approved a $6.4 billion arms package for Israel, including 30 AH-64 Apache attack helicopters and 3,250 infantry assault vehicles.

According to U.S. officials, the helicopters are valued at $3.8 billion, while the vehicles are priced at $1.9 billion. An additional $700 million has been allocated for spare parts and ammunition.

The deal comes as Israeli forces, under Prime Minister Netanyahu’s orders, intensify their ground operations to seize full control of Gaza. Analysts believe the new weaponry will be used in the ongoing offensive.

Meanwhile, France and Saudi Arabia have called for an international conference in New York on September 22 to push for recognition of Palestine as an independent state.