First Thing, a newsletter delivered to thousands each weekday, highlights major events shaping the landscape both domestically and internationally. In California, the Hughes fire has consumed nearly 16 square miles since its eruption on Wednesday, with only 36% of the blaze contained. Firefighters remain vigilant, wary that the Palisades and Eaton fires might breach their containment lines. Meanwhile, political controversies emerge as President Trump's nominee for defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, endorses an extremist Christian doctrine advocating for civil governance under Old Testament law.
In Seattle, a federal judge has temporarily halted an executive order from the Trump administration aimed at ending automatic birthright citizenship. The decision underscores the ongoing legal battles surrounding immigration policies. This sentiment is echoed by Lane Polozola, Washington’s assistant attorney general, who remarked:
"This is step one but to hear the judge from the bench say that in his 40 years as a judge he has never seen something so blatantly unconstitutional, sets the tone for the seriousness of this effort."
The US Department of State has also made waves by banning embassies from displaying any non-US flags, reflecting a tightening stance on symbols of diversity and inclusion under the current administration.
In Bangkok, hazardous air pollution levels have prompted officials to close 351 schools, marking the highest number of closures in five years due to environmental concerns. Back in the US, California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a $2.5 billion relief fund dedicated to aiding Los Angeles's recovery efforts amidst various crises.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has conducted 538 arrests, though details regarding the timing and location of these arrests remain undisclosed. This lack of transparency has drawn criticism, particularly from Newark's Mayor Ras Baraka following an ICE raid in his city. Baraka stated:
"Newark will not stand by idly while people are being unlawfully terrorized."
Further complicating matters in international policy, the European Commission has made future payments to Tunisia contingent on adherence to human rights standards. This decision comes after a Guardian investigation revealed extensive abuse by EU-funded security forces.
Seema Jilani, a pediatric specialist, reflects on the emotional toll of her experiences in conflict zones, particularly in Gaza. Her poignant words capture the haunting memories of children she could not save:
"I have seen your face before. I saw it on medical evacuation flights when I tried to prolong your life until the moment you would be reunited with your mother. I saw it in the waters off the coast of Libya, on a refugee rescue boat, quivering from hypothermia, with no parent there to soothe you."
"I tried to save your young life in a Gaza hospital. Now your face haunts me."
This complex tapestry of global and local events continues to unfold, highlighting significant challenges and debates across various fronts.