'Israel Siege Continues as $1.7 Billion Powerball Winner Emerges: Morning Rundown'

Israel vows to maintain its siege on Gaza until hostages are released, causing a growing humanitarian crisis in the region.

Israel has made a vow to continue its siege of Gaza until all hostages are released. The country's energy minister, X, made the statement on social media, stating that no humanitarian aid will be provided until the kidnapped Israelis are returned home. The Israeli military has reported that 97 families have been informed of their loved ones being taken hostage, with estimates suggesting that between 100 and 150 people have been kidnapped by Hamas. Aid organizations have expressed concerns about the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, as Israel's complete blockade has cut off supplies of fuel, food, water, and electricity. This has resulted in a barrage of air strikes and the displacement of over a quarter million people.

In a show of support, the Secretary of State has arrived in Tel Aviv and met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. They will also be meeting with regional leaders later in the week. Near the border with Lebanon, gun distribution posts have opened for Israelis who are permitted to bear arms. Iran's foreign minister is set to visit Lebanon in light of the current events, as they are known supporters of Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, which has been exchanging fire with Israel since Hamas' attack.

In the Israeli-occupied West Bank, two Palestinians were killed by Israeli settlers near the town of Qusra. Witnesses reported that the father and son were shot during the funeral of four Palestinians who were killed by armed settlers and Israeli soldiers the day before.

In other news, the latest figures are expected to show that inflation is cooling, with overall prices for consumers rising about 0.2% last month compared to August and 3.6% compared to a year ago. Core inflation, which excludes energy and food prices, is expected to be up 4.1% from September of last year. Gas prices, however, are on track to keep falling. This report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics could have significant implications for the economy, especially as interest rates are currently at their highest levels in two decades.

Republicans have voted to nominate the House Majority Leader as the next speaker of the House, but a floor vote has not yet been scheduled. The representative from Louisiana still needs the support of at least 217 Republicans to secure the position. Negotiations between Hollywood actors and major studios have been suspended, with the trade association for the studios stating that the gap between the two groups is too great. Actors have been on strike since mid-July after failed contract negotiations.

Community health centers across the country are still waiting for shipments of Covid vaccines to arrive, even weeks after the approval of updated booster shots. Some centers have not received any shipments, while others have had to prioritize doses for those at the highest risk. However, even when the vaccines are available, many people do not want to be vaccinated.

In other news, the California lottery jackpot has reached the second largest in the game's history. President Joe Biden has filed paperwork to appear on the Nevada Democratic primary ballot in February, formalizing his 2024 candidacy. Donald Trump's lawyers have requested for the classified documents trial to be postponed until after the 2024 election. A group of House Republicans from New York will introduce a resolution to expel Rep. George Santos from Congress following his indictment on additional charges.

The recent incident of a drone flying over the Ohio State-Maryland football game has raised concerns about security among lawmakers and sports league executives. Some believe there is a risk of injury and death, prompting discussions about strengthening security measures.

For those looking for a lighter alternative to a laptop, tablets are a great option. They are portable and can be easily stored away, and accessories like keyboards or styluses can enhance their functionality. NBC Select has rounded up their favorite tablets, including options from Apple, Google, and Amazon.

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