Last known surviving hostage released in Israel
The last surviving Israeli hostage has been released by Hamas. The terrorist group announced the release of Edan Alexander this week. Alexander is an Israeli soldier that was held over 500 days in captivity. He is the last known surviving hostage taken on October 7th. The Israeli government released a statement saying in part that this would not be possible without the help of the Trump administration and military pressure from Israel in Gaza. The prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu also vowed that his country’s military would continue their offensive into Gaza. The terrorist group Hamas attacked Israel and its citizens on October 7th over one thousand people including 46 US citizens were killed in the attack. Out of the 251 hostages taken, only 146 were returned or rescued alive.
US Committee looks to eliminate controversial program funding
Members of Congress are taking aim at defunding some polarizing topics. Members of the House Energy Commerce Committee announced they are working on budget cuts to help reduce the federal debt limit. These reductions will include if approved, cutting funding from Planned Parenthood. The group has been the focus of the abortion and pro-life movements in recent years. The main sore spot is government funding of the controversial group. Planned Parenthood claims their facilities help lower income communities with healthcare and much needed resources. Critics point out the majority of their services and profit surround abortions; a practice voters and GOP leaders believe should not be funded by US taxpayers. The committee would also cut spending by defunding for transgender drugs for minors. The committee is being tasked with finding at least 800 billion dollars to cut out of the budget. Federal funding to Planned Parenthood was more than 700 million dollars in 2023.
Congress members push for more regulation of controversial abortion pill
Members of Congress are also pressuring the FDA to address new safety concerns about the abortion pill. Mifepristone is a drug used in 60 percent of abortions in the US. A new study finds the health risks to patients is 22 times greater than previously reported. According to the Food and Drug Admiration’s Commissioner they have no plans to change its policy on the drug. The abortion pill has been a controversial issue since its debut. The pill is a form of chemical abortion and has been blamed for ongoing health issues in patients and several deaths. Jamie Bryan Hall, who led a study on the drug says one in ten patients risk severe and possibly fatal side effects. The FDA claims in their approval less than one percent of patients had a negative effect to the medicine. Nearly 900 thousand patients were prescribed abortion pills between 2017 and 2023. SNBC NEWS will update you on this story as it develops.
SNBC Health Report: a new trend is gaining attention in health circles, but is it safe?
A new trend in the nutrition world is gaining attention and nutritionists are commenting on its long term affects or warning consumers to proceed with caution. Aloe vera juice is a growing trend in some nutrition circles. The juice from the aloe vera plant is known for treating skin conditions, bug bites and a source of Vitamin E, but consuming the plant is a cautionary issue. Aloe vera is full of various benefits. It has vitamins C and E, is an antioxidant and supports heart health. Research has found aloe vera promotes skin health and aids in blood sugar management. Researchers have used this juice to alleviate constipation in patients and assist with diabetic issues. They caution that consuming aloe vera juice is still being studied long term and do not advise extended use without the guidance of a medical professional. Researchers advise consuming no more than one or two ounces per day and if you consume aloe vera juice carefully monitor how your body responds.