Air travel across the US faced widespread delays for a second day as air traffic control staffing shortages hit major airports, including Nashville, Chicago, and Philadelphia. The Federal Aviation Administration, already short about 3,000 controllers, reported “insufficient staffing” at multiple facilities. The shortages, worsened by the ongoing government shutdown, have forced controllers and TSA officers to work without pay, prompting increased absences. While officials deny any organized protest, union leaders warn the system is “fragile” and could see worsening disruptions if the shutdown continues and workers continue missing paychecks.

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Natalie Johnson

Israel’s right-wing government has overseen a record expansion of settlements in the West Bank in recent years. The settlements, which are illegal under international law, are driving the displacement of Palestinians. One proposal the government is now advancing is the controversial E1 settlement plan, which would effectively slice the West Bank in two and severely undermine Palestinian aspirations for a contiguous state.

Natalie Johnson

More than 70% of the earth’s surface is covered in good old H2O, so it would seem there’s plenty to go around. But the vast majority, at least 97%, is contained in the oceans as saltwater. The growing scarcity of freshwater for drinking, cooking, industrial, and agricultural uses is quickly moving water up as a global risk. In fact, our parent company, Eurasia Group, added it to its Top Risks list for 2026 as “The water weapon.”