Ten people were killed in an attack in New Orleans when a man drove a pickup truck into crowds on Bourbon Street on New Year’s Day, injuring approximately 35 others before being shot by police. The F.B.I. is investigating the incident as an act of terrorism.
The suspect, identified as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Bahar Jabbar, a U.S. Army veteran from Texas, had an Islamic State flag, weapons, and a potential improvised explosive device in his vehicle. Investigators are exploring possible connections between Jabbar and terrorist organizations.
Officials believe the combination of the vehicle attack and the bomb indicated that the perpetrator aimed to inflict further civilian casualties. The incident occurred around 3:15 a.m. as crowds celebrated the New Year in the French Quarter. Following the crash, Jabbar opened fire and was killed in a shootout with police, during which two officers were shot and are reported to be in stable condition.
Vehicle-based attacks have a historical precedent, as cars and trucks are more accessible than firearms or explosives and require minimal training to execute.
In a separate development, Ukraine has declined to renew an agreement allowing Russian natural gas to transit through its territory to Europe, according to officials from both nations. This decision is part of a broader strategy by Ukraine and its Western allies to weaken Moscow's financial resources for its military operations.
While Europe anticipated this move, analysts do not expect significant impacts on gas prices. Some countries, including Hungary, Austria, and several Balkan nations, still rely on Russian gas delivered through Ukraine. However, existing gas stockpiles and alternative supplies are expected to mitigate potential disruptions in electricity and heating. Slovakia, which remains heavily dependent on Russian gas, has threatened to retaliate against Ukraine.
Additionally, tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have escalated due to recent Pakistani airstrikes targeting the T.T.P., or Pakistani Taliban. These strikes, which reportedly resulted in civilian casualties, have led to retaliatory actions from the Taliban inside Pakistan. Both countries face pressure to respond to the ongoing violence, as Pakistan aims to demonstrate its capability to protect its citizens while the Taliban grapples with internal divisions related to the T.T.P.
In other news, a tradition in Rome involves tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure a return to the city. A dedicated individual is responsible for collecting the coins and managing the funds.
In the realm of fitness, experts suggest focusing on sustainable goals rather than cosmetic outcomes. Setting achievable objectives, such as improving mobility or strength, can foster a lasting exercise habit.
For culinary enthusiasts, a recipe for pancakes from Brooklyn's Chez Ma Tante is available, alongside a recommendation to watch the Soviet-era classic "The Irony of Fate." Entertainment critics are also sharing their anticipated highlights for 2025.
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