Attacks Heighten Fears of a Wider War for the Middle East and U.S.

The killing of a top Hamas leader in Lebanon and mysterious twin explosions in Iran heighten fears of a regional war that could draw in the United States.

Paxlovid Cuts Covid Death Risk. But Those Who Need It Are Not Taking It.

With Covid deaths rising to about 1,500 per week, researchers question why Paxlovid use has remained low among high-risk patients.

By Christina Jewett

Putin’s Drive to Rewrite History Snares a Retired Lithuanian Judge

A few years ago, Kornelija Maceviciene ruled against Soviet officers for a brutal crackdown on pro-independence protesters in her country in 1991. That has made her a target for a Russian court.

Menendez Case Focuses on How Qatar Trades Its Riches for Clout

The tiny Gulf state has cultivated relationships with powerful people and institutions to raise its global profile, and to protect its interests.

Leader’s Killing Is a Blow, but Not a Knockout, for Hamas

The killing of Saleh al-Arouri, a key Hamas strategist, in Lebanon sets the organization back at a vulnerable time. The group has rebuilt after the assassination of other leaders, though.

Bombing in Iran Kills Over 100, Sowing Confusion and Speculation

No one claimed responsibility for the bombing at a memorial for Qassim Suleimani, the top commander killed by a U.S. drone strike four years ago.

Strawberry Case Study: What if Farmers Had to Pay for Water?

With aquifers nationwide in dangerous decline, one part of California has tried essentially taxing groundwater. New research shows it’s working.

‘It’s State Propaganda’: Ukrainians Shun TV News as War Drags on

A government-approved news program intended to counter Russian disinformation and boost morale is coming under criticism for painting a rosy picture of the war.

Top Hamas Official Is Killed in Lebanon as Fears Grow of a Wider War

The Israeli government would not comment on the death of Saleh al-Arouri. But a U.S. official said to expect Israel to assassinate Hamas officials “for years.”

The Twin Fronts in the Battle Over Israel’s Identity

Monday’s court ruling joined the war in Gaza in a widening crisis over what kind of state Israel will be.

A ‘Miracle’: Plane Erupts in Flames Landing in Tokyo, but All Aboard Survive

Japan Airlines said all 367 passengers and 12 crew members had safely, evacuated the jet. But five crew members on a Japanese Coast Guard plane that collided with it were killed.

Harvard President Resigns After Mounting Plagiarism Accusations

Claudine Gay faced backlash over the university’s response to antisemitism on campus, which led to increased scrutiny of her academic record.

Israel’s Top Court Strikes Down Move to Curb Its Powers

The Supreme Court, by the narrowest of margins, rejected a law pushed by Netanyahu allies that limited its authority to review government decisions.

Can He Condemn the Killings Without Causing More Pain?

Chris George has lived in Israel and Gaza, where he was once held hostage. As his employees ask him to speak out on the latest war, he is torn.

Powerful Earthquake Hits Japan, and Officials Warn of Aftershocks

There were reports of collapsed buildings and people being trapped underneath them. The quake disrupted electricity and phone service, and initially raised fears of a tsunami.

Police Officers Are Charged With Crimes, but Are Juries Convicting?

Since the death of George Floyd, a national movement promised sweeping justice reform. So far, police prosecutions have resulted in a mixed bag of convictions, acquittals and a mistrial.