With his inauguration just two weeks away, President-elect Trump has issued a stark warning regarding the hostages held in Gaza: if they are not released by January 20th, there will be severe consequences in the Middle East. This reiterates a threat Trump initially directed at Hamas in early December. The terrorist organization continues to hold approximately 96 hostages, with an estimated 50, including three Americans, still alive.

Former President Trump and then Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem. (AP/Sebastian Scheiner)

In other news, Israeli special forces executed a daring raid in Syria during September. The operation targeted and destroyed a clandestine underground facility used for manufacturing long-range missiles. The IDF confirmed that the site also housed intelligence related to Syria’s chemical weapons program. A video detailing the raid is available for viewing.

The surge in antisemitism since the Hamas attack on Israel 14 months ago has impacted individuals from kindergarten through high school. Devora Simon, National Director of the Jewish Student Union (JSU), reported a significant increase in student participation, with 4,000 teenagers joining JSU clubs seeking community and connection. This has led to the establishment of 125 new JSU clubs across the country during the current school year.

Michael Masters, head of the Secure Community Network, argues for the expulsion of illegal immigrants involved in antisemitic acts within the United States.

George Mason University student Abdullah Ezzeldin Taha Mohamed Hassan faces federal charges related to a mass casualty threat in New York City.

Attorney Brooke Goldstein proposes that President-elect Trump establish a dedicated "antisemitism czar" position. This role would focus on addressing antisemitism, including taking action against universities where anti-Jewish sentiment is prevalent.