Author: Thomas L. Knapp

Italy: Ben-Gvir under investigation over Gaza flotilla abuses

Source: The New Arab [UK]

“Italian prosecutors put Israel’s fanatical National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir under investigation over the treatment of activists who were part of a Gaza flotilla last month, a judicial source said on Monday. The source, who asked not to be named, confirmed earlier reports by Italian news agencies and said Ben-Gvir was being investigated on suspicion of torture and kidnapping of Italian citizens who were among the activists. If the probe determines charges are warranted, prosecutors could lodge a formal request for trial. … Israel and Ben-Gvir have faced mounting international criticism after the minister, in late May, released a video showing abducted Gaza activists kneeling with their hands bound after Israel kidnapped members of the aid flotilla in international waters.” (06/09/26)

https://www.newarab.com/news/ben-gvir-under-investigation-italy-over-gaza-flotilla-abuses

Thomas L. Knapp

Trump Started a War He Can’t Control

Source: Foreign Policy
by John Haltiwanger

“U.S. President Donald Trump has become a passenger in the Iran war, despite insisting that he remains behind the wheel after months of failed efforts to reach a peace deal. And by attempting to portray himself as in control and denying complex realities on the ground, he has only made it more difficult to reach an agreement.” (06/08/26)

https://archive.is/kVCX6

Thomas L. Knapp

CA: Democrat Secures Second LA Mayor Spot and Ends Pratt’s Run

Source: New York Times

“Nithya Raman, a progressive Democrat who has drawn comparisons to New York’s mayor, Zohran Mamdani, will face Mayor Karen Bass of Los Angeles in a two-person race in November, The Associated Press determined on Monday. Ms. Raman, 44, a City Council member and former Bass ally, was behind in the initial vote count but came back in later returns to edge out Spencer Pratt, a Republican reality TV star who lost his home in the 2025 wildfires that devastated Pacific Palisades, a wealthy coastal enclave. Mr. Pratt had jumped out to an early lead in a field of more than a dozen contenders, in part because Republicans, who make up about 15 percent of the city’s electorate, had coalesced behind him. But his margin shrank as ballots from thousands of liberals [sic] who voted closer to Election Day were processed.” (06/08/26)

https://archive.is/FDZ6F

Thomas L. Knapp