Time to choose a new favorite social media platform.

Happening in the World: After a year not in power, Benjamin Netanyahu has returned as the prime minister of Israel. This election continues Netanyahu’s leadership of the last 15 years, and supports the social shift towards right wing politics, including occupation of the West Bank and ending peace negotiations with the Palestinians. In the past, Netanyahu has allied with at least one centrist party, but it appears that this new era of leadership will be allied with far right, ultra-Orthodox parties. Netanyahu is also currently standing trial for the corruption charges that forced him to step down during his time as prime minister. (NYT)

Happening in the US: After Elon Musk’s purchase of Twitter and ongoing criticism about structural changes within the company, employees are now being locked out of work accounts during en mass firings. All staff are expected to receive an email with the subject line “Your Role At Twitter” by 9 am Pacific time today, which will inform them whether they will continue to work at Twitter. Musk is expected to reduce the 8,000 person workforce by half, citing dropping sales and limited advertisements during a rocky economic period. Technology commentator Gareth Edwards states that the site may not function as it did before after firing so many employees with needed skillsets. (BBC)

Happening in NYC: Bronx voters are expressing concerns over Hochul’s run for governor in a tight race. A weak performance in the Bronx could prompt a wakeup call for Democrats and their engagement with the Latino community. While the Bronx has traditionally been a Democratic stronghold, an analysis by the New York Times showed that Donald Trump doubled his performance in 2020 in parts of the borough where the majority of residents are of Dominican descent. Lee Zeldin, the Republican candidate, has continuously targeted rising inflation and crime, which could resonate well with residents who are struggling with local battles such as rezoning and housing for formerly incarcerated people. (Gothamist)

Happening in Our Community: Attend a workshop to consider the history of the conquered: the Ottoman Algiers Beyond 1830. This event will explore the 130 years after French troops conquered the Ottoman Algiers, and discuss Abdeklkader’s anticolonial resistance, development of the French mission civilisatrice, and the rise of the F.L.N.. In discussing this history, the event will also bring to light the Ottoman entanglements that still remain in Algiers, and how these influences have created old and new imperial identities. This event will take place from 2 to 6 pm, in Buell Hall, East Gallery, 515 W. 116th Street. No registration is needed, please contact sakipsabancicenter@columbia.edu for more information.