Gaza’s Rafah crossing could open within days

JERUSALEM (AP) — The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt could open within days. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says it will reopen soon as the U.S.-brokered Israel-Hamas ceasefire plan moves into its second phase. This raises hopes for thousands of Palestinians needing medical care abroad and those wanting to return home. However, only dozens of Palestinians will be allowed through each day. Israel will control who enters and exits, with tight security screenings. The reopening is a significant shift, but many details, including the movement of goods, remain unclear.

Indigenous protesters block Cargill facility in Brazil over President Lula’s decree

SAO PAULO (AP) — Hundreds of Indigenous people have been protesting at a Cargill facility in Santarem, Brazil, against a decree signed in August by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The decree allows private concessions for waterways, shifting maintenance responsibilities to operators. The Tapajos and Arapiuns Indigenous Council, representing 14 Indigenous peoples, says the government failed to consult affected communities. They warn that dredging projects threaten the Tapajos River and the Amazon rainforest. Protesters plan to stay until the decree is revoked. Cargill says the protest blocks vehicle access but respects the right to protest. The government says consultation is ongoing.

Middle East worries over possible US strike on Iran one month after protests began

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Iran has reached out to Middle Eastern countries over the threat of a possible U.S. military strike. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have signaled they won’t allow their airspace to be used for any attack. The United States has moved the USS Abraham Lincoln into the region and President Donald Trump has urged Iran to negotiate. A month has passed since protests in Iran began over the economy and grew to challenge the theocracy. They led to a bloody crackdown, and activists say at least 6,301 people were killed. Meanwhile, Iran’s currency on Wednesday reached a new low.

Partial federal shutdown seems increasingly likely as Democrats demand major changes to ICE

WASHINGTON (AP) — A partial government shutdown is looming at week’s end. And now Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer has laid out a list of demands for the Department of Homeland Security as the Senate heads toward a crucial Thursday vote on whether to move forward with the spending legislation that funds DHS and a swath of other government agencies. Schumer says Democrats are asking the White House for an enforceable code of conduct for federal agents conducting immigration arrests and a requirement that they identify themselves to the public. Republicans will need Democratic votes to keep the government open when funding runs out at midnight Friday.

Gay ice hockey drama a surprise hit in Russia

LONDON (AP) — The TV drama “Heated Rivalry” has become a global sensation, captivating audiences with its portrayal of a secret gay relationship between Canadian and Russian hockey players. The show, based on a novel by Rachel Reid, has gained unexpected popularity in Russia, despite the country’s anti-LGBTQ+ laws. Journalist Mikhail Zygar believes the show’s success is inspiring and could shift perceptions among Russians. While Western sanctions limit access to such content, Russians are finding ways to watch it illegally. The show’s popularity is seen as a form of resistance against the oppressive regime.