The Christian Science Monitor Daily Podcast

A case of alleged sexual assault Cornell University has drawn national attention. The different roles that colleges, the criminal justice system, and media play in such cases is not always clear. Also: today's stories, including how artificial intelligence is playing a central role in Brazil's upcoming elections despite regulations meant to keep AI-generated information at bay; why an eviction in Spain sparked widespread protests; and a look at how farmers in Gaza are rebuilding from the roots. Join the Monitor's Mackenzie Farkus for today's news.

Record low approval of the U.S. Supreme Court puts pressure on the justices, who need to retain support from the public and other branches of government for their rulings to be enforced. Also: today's stories, including why Republicans are losing support among some Latinos; why more young Indians are doubting the value of education; and why Howard Zinn became a “people's historian,” according to a new biography. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

A pilot on a commercial flight from the United Arab Emirates to Tel Aviv with more than 150 Israeli passengers reportedly attacked his co-pilot and tried to crash the plane Wednesday. Israeli officials say the incident was a thwarted terrorist attack. Also: today's stories, including how some residents of the Spanish city Ceuta are trying to build true equity; what changes to China's economy mean for high level trade talks with the European Union; and a look at how some Afrikaners – practically the only refugee group the Trump administration has admitted – are settling into their new lives in the U.S. Join the Monitor's Matthew Bell for today's news.

Where and how to cut wasteful government spending is an enduring debate among politicians and voters. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has been a focus for Republicans, and new requirements for states already appear to be having a ripple effect on recipients. Also: today's stories, including how America's role in the Middle East and beyond is shifting; why an Israeli rabbi sees settler violence as a full-blown “moral crisis”; and the Monitor's reviews of the best fiction and non-fiction books of September. Join the Monitor's Chris Sherman for today's news.

Along Route 66, as in the rest of America, cities and towns often see their economic pillars flourish and fade, driving them to seek new ways to thrive. As wind energy produces more electricity, it spurs the creation of jobs that are needed to sustain a growing industry. Also: today's stories, including how colleges are grappling with a call to action from the federal government; why a rare sign of unity in the U.N. could make island nations the general assembly's real winners; and a look at a former bureaucrat trying to keep Tibetan calligraphy alive. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

There were no concrete breakthroughs on trade, AI, or Taiwan. But Chinese leader Xi Jinping's trip to Washington was an opportunity for him and President Donald Trump to strengthen their rapport. Beijing also used it to promote more people-to-people ties. Also: today's stories, including why Russia is showing confidence in its position on the battlefield as peace talks grow more likely; why public attention on jurors raises concerns for the U.S. justice system; and a look at the new Presidential Military Spouse Commission, which aims to support service families in the U.S. Join the Monitor's Mackenzie Farkus for today's news.

President Donald Trump's muscular approach to presidential power aimed to score big wins for his agenda. Polls suggest voters are largely dissatisfied, from the Iran war to the economy. Also: today's stories, including why Europe is opting for a safe and steady course in the AI race; a look at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's U.N. speech; and how lawmakers are reassessing road rules for e-bikes. Join the Monitor's Matthew Bell for today's news.

The competition between the U.S. and China around AI is about more than technology. It's about soft-power influence. The Monitor investigates what messages China's increasingly popular AI models are promoting. Also: today's stories, including how Vivek Ramaswamy's platform of shared ideals is playing in a party roiled by debates over diversity; why graduate's earnings mean their schools could lose access to federal student loans; and a look at a key cohort to mobilize in Brazil's coming presidential election, voters over 70. Join the Monitor's Chris Sherman for today's news.

President Donald Trump has once again used aggressive rhetoric against Iran, telling delegates at the United Nations he could “annihilate the Islamic Republic.” But he also suggested the conflict could be heading to a resolution “one way or the other.” Also: today's stories, including how valuable biodiversity is to the world's economy; efforts to steady ties as Chinese leader Xi Jinping and President Donald Trump prepare to meet in Washington; and what happens when Native justice clashes with “Anglo” law. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

The United Nations is trying to adapt to major cuts in its funding, affecting its ability to provide humanitarian aid to countries in need. This is one of the key challenges facing global leaders and diplomats traveling to U.N. headquarters in New York this week. Also: today's stories, including how some members of Congress's track records with technology could play a part in regulating artificial intelligence; why many hope adopting a new pact will put the tensions around President Donald Trump's preoccupation with Greenland to bed; and a look at a migrant in Beirut who hosts cricket games that form community and provide support. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

Diesel fuel is key to the American economy because it's used by trucks and railroads to move most goods across the country. Analysts say the steady rise in diesel's price per gallon means consumers and businesses should expect to see even higher prices. Also: today's stories, including how Houthi threats to Saudi Arabia's oil exports are having an impact on global energy markets; why a two-part biopic about Charles de Gaulle has proved to be a major hit with French filmgoers; and a look at how female basketball players in Somaliland are advocates for both gender equality and Somaliland's right to sovereignty. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

This weekend's parliamentary elections in Russia appear set to be even more predictable than usual. But that predictability hints at what is worrying the Kremlin, and how little it has to offer the public right now. Also: today's stories, including Mark Carney turning across the Atlantic to seek a partnership with the EU, a look at a Navy SEAL trying to reform FEMA, and what a University at risk of closing in Ecuador can teach us about social gains. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldman for today's news.

As the war in Iran pushes up the price of fuel and food, experts say Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh had little choice but to raise interest rates for the first time in three years. Also: today's stories, including how moving military assets in the Pacific has made it easier for China and North Korea to pursue their objectives; why an upcoming Xi-Trump meeting could be key for AI guardrails; and a look at a documentary about Palestinian civilian deaths in Gaza that has sparked national controversy in Israel. Join the Monitor's Matthew Bell for today's news.

The Trump administration is designing AI tools to vet chemicals and pesticides for safety, the Monitor's Aaron Glantz and Story Hinckley report. Critics question whether the administration is meeting legal standards for transparency. Also: today's stories, including how a traffic stop could lead to much more as ICE deputizes local law enforcement; why Armenia and Georgia are diversifying their international relationships amid political turmoil; and a new biography on Harry Belafonte's activism and cultural significance. Join the Monitor's Chris Sherman for today's news.

The International Criminal Court was set up to bring individuals to justice for war crimes. But its future is now being questioned by the United States. At issue is whether the U.S. should maintain its commitment to international justice or try to end an organization it sees as flawed and overreaching its authority. Also: today's stories, including how a new round of strikes by the United States and Iran threatens to restart a conflict in the Middle East; a look at how Boston is making strides in composting; and how in Somaliland, a major book fair is putting the unrecognized country on the literary map. Join the Monitor's Matthew Bell for today's news.

Iran's economy was in ruins even before the war, and before U.S. President Donald Trump's latest “D-Day” sanctions. So far, ordinary Iranians are bearing the brunt and feeling apathetic, meaning surviving leaders, for now, might face a lower risk of an uprising. Also: today's stories, including why tech leaders are moving to put data centers in space; why small-scale nuclear reactors are drawing interest as stable, economically feasible power generators; and a look at Côte d'Ivoire's economic aspirations as its capital, Abidjan, will soon be home to Africa's tallest building. Join the Monitor's Chris Sherman for today's news.

Utah aims to be industry-friendly. But choosing a fragile ecosystem to house a sprawling data facility has generated intense grassroots opposition. Also: today's stories, including whether a U.S.-Venezuelan oil deal could bolster schools, hospitals, and infrastructure in the country; how farmers across Europe are trying to adapt to hotter summer temperatures and less rainfall; and how one former Marine is celebrating the lives of resilient public servants in his latest book. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

Many countries and companies are competing to be the first to achieve “artificial general intelligence,” a theoretical AI that can match or beat humans in any task. China hopes that putting AI in a body – by investing in humanoid robots – will give their developers an edge. Also: today's stories, including what Iceland is weighing before it votes on whether to restart talks about joining the European Union; how a global initiative to pay-what-you-can for high end dining started by a restaurant in Mexico City has expanded; and a Monitor writer's review of DéLana R.A. Dameron's last novel, “Fairfield County.” Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

The Trump administration wants to put tougher vetting in place for mail-in voting. Despite a preliminary Supreme Court win this week, it remains to be seen if new rules will go into effect before the midterms, with a number of lawsuits in play. Also: today's stories, including a look at Meta's new rules for minors after a historic legal settlement; why local journalists in Sudan are being targeted by rival military forces; and how one organization in Massachusetts celebrates vintage base ball (yes, two words!). Join the Monitor's Mackenzie Farkus for today's news.

During Syria's long civil war, Russia propped up the Assad regime with military and diplomatic support. Now, the new government in Damascus is recalibrating the power dynamic with Moscow. Also: today's stories, including how Iowans could elect a Democratic governor for the first time in two decades, how a drought in the western United States has affected food sources for black bears, and a tribute to one of America's most beloved and iconic performers and songwriters, Dolly Parton. Join the Monitor's Matthew Bell for today's news.

One key goal for Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi has been the disarming of Iraqi militias, including those backed by, and serving, Iran. The Trump administration robustly endorses that goal, but its economic pressure on Iran is making it harder to attain. Also: today's stories, including how the Russia-Ukraine war is impacting Ukraine's North Azovian Greek community; why the WNBA is dealing with a string of controversies despite a growing fanbase and increased revenue; and a look at a new documentary on the poet Mary Oliver. Join the Monitor's Chris Sherman for today's news.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney hopes that he can use the collapse of trade talks with Washington to show that Canada and other “middle powers” can navigate geopolitical storms without ceding their sovereignty to nations like the United States. Also: today's stories, including a look at President Donald Trump's latest tariffs and sanctions; why Washington's curtailing of joint military drills in South Korea could push the country on a path to self-reliance; and how Native Americans along Route 66 are grappling with the highway's legacy. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

We've got a little something different — and sweet — in today's Daily. Our reporters traveled the globe to find out more about skyrocketing cocoa prices, taking a look behind the scenes at cocoa farmers and boutique chocolatiers as they grapple with social, economic, and environmental questions. Join the Monitor's Kendra Nordin Beato for today's news.

The Federal Communications Commission may cut funds for internet access at schools and libraries. Schools and libraries say that cuts could leave them with hard choices. Also in today's stories: French parents rethink childhood safety after reports of abuse in after school programs; midterm elections may allow Democrats to put new scrutiny on self-dealing in Washington; and in Africa, a push for more kid-friendly cities. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

Among Israelis working to protect West Bank Palestinians from settler attacks, members of the leftist religious group Bnei Avraham are outliers. The group aims to show “another face of Judaism,” one member says. Also in today's stories: why milestone diplomatic moments in Iran and Gaza fell flat; why Russia banned an anti-war party from legislative elections; and what the updated Endangered Species Act means for the species it protects. Join the Monitor's Matthew Bell for today's news.

In the United Nations' 80 years, it has been led by nine secretaries-general, none of them women. But as the U.N. begins the process of electing a successor to António Guterres, pressure is mounting to shatter its glass ceiling. Four top candidates are women. Also: today's stories, including how a spate of cyberattacks on water utilities across the United States has spurred calls for increased cybersecurity requirements; a look at the latest Gen Z trend, “Chinamaxxing”; and why the University of Michigan is dropping first-year letter grades. Join the Monitor's Mackenzie Farkus for today's news.

President Donald Trump's announcement that he is scaling back U.S. participation in long-standing, joint military drills in South Korea is another example of Washington's willingness to turn away from traditional allies. It also shows how faraway wars might be reshaping security dynamics in the Pacific. Also: today's stories, including a look at the depletion of U.S. missile stockpiles due to the U.S.-Iran war; why growing food in water is providing a green line of defense in Saudi Arabia; and a look at a turtle conservation effort along Kenya's coast. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

Human rights advocates say women and girls in Afghanistan have seen most of their basic human rights taken away. These accounts from two Afghan women offer a glimpse of what life is like under Taliban rule. Also: today's stories, including a look at the new Women's Pro Baseball League in the U.S.; how Europeans are considering how waterways shape communities, economies, and sense of place amid recent drought; and a Q&A with an Iraqi American director on her latest film, about a young Muslim woman who moves to a Chaldean Christian neighborhood in Detroit. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

Who suffers when AI gets things wrong? In Brazil, where fighting crime is a top priority for citizens, facial-recognition technology is exploding, even though the legislature is still working on laying out clear rules. Also: today's stories, including a look at how a rising pragmatic approach to clean energy is slowing Europe's green transition; how AI is rattling the book publishing industry; and a photo essay on climbing in Damascus and its uplifting effect on Syrian life. Join the Monitor's Matthew Bell for today's news.

The AI boom is proving complicated for everyday Americans. It's raising the cost of living and stopping the Fed from lowering interest rates. It is making some things faster and easier, but it is also changing how we live. Also: today's stories, including how Israel's new left-wing party is not focusing on peace within its campaign; how Kazakhstan is questioning Russia's invasion of Ukraine; and how parents are advocating for less screen time in schools. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

The United States struggles with traffic safety in comparison with the track records of other developed nations. There are some bright spots, such as the city of Somerville, Massachusetts, where use of road safety tools and community engagement has brought success. Also: today's stories, including a town's repurposing of a closed college campus to help foster community; lawmakers' involvement in the new era of revenue-generating college sports; and our Africa editor's enlightening experience in starting a letter exchange between South African students and students from America and Mexico. Join the Monitor's Chris Sherman for today's news.

The Saudi-Turkish-Pakistani compact is a response to the prolonged Iran war, an Israel seen as seeking hegemony, and the failure of other diplomatic initiatives. It also anticipates a reduced U.S. regional posture. Does that help the United States? Also: today's stories, including how Massachusetts students are suing for continued segregation in school districts; how Tulsa is offering incentives to relocate remote workers; and a review of books about AI. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

As Silicon Valley titans and startups cash in, educators and parents are struggling to decide which artificial intelligence tools help – or harm. Also: today's stories, including how President Donald Trump is trying to limit birthright citizenship through executive orders; how a comedy candidate is playing political spoiler in Britain; and how class pets are helping students refine their social skills and learn how to handle emotions. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

The Trump administration let a contract to provide legal services to tens of thousands of immigrant children lapse. The interruption potentially leaves more children without legal representation in a complex and accelerating immigration court system. Also: today's stories, including how the aftermath of the U.S. government's slashing of two revered national monuments in Utah could determine how vast public lands in the western U.S. are managed; why the clock is ticking on the Trump administration's ability to complete more of the Project 2025 agenda; and how residents of one Indian village look forward to an annual cleanup and fishing festival. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

Many soldiers in Ukraine are spending long periods on the front lines, as Ukraine struggles against Russia's numerical advantage. One infantryman, in the trenches for nearly a year and a half straight, tells us his story. Also: today's stories, including how the Trump administration is stepping in as AI models are evading corporate controls; how a bipartisan Truth Commission in New Mexico is aiming to tell the story of what happened at Zorro Ranch, formerly owned by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein; and how a new law signed by Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey will narrow cooperation between the state and federal immigration authorities. Join the Monitor's Mackenzie Farkus for today's news.

The U.S. intervened in Japan to help steady the yen. A move not taken since the height of the Asian financial crisis, it was motivated as much by American self-interest as it was by a desire to help out a close ally. Also: today's stories, including how two Republican senators temporarily withheld approval of President Trump's attorney general nominee over concerns with an administration policy; the big expectations many Syrians have of their new lawmakers, as their country's Parliament reconvenes with limited amount of leverage over government decisions; and how China's ancient tradition requiring a month of special postpartum care is evolving and slowly migrating to the West. Join the Monitor's Chris Sherman for today's news.

Wisconsin, a political bellwether, might see a Democratic takeover after 15 years of Republican rule. But having a socialist at the top of the ticket raises questions for some voters. Also: today's stories, including how in the wake of the U.S.-Saudi nuclear deal, other countries are asking whether they, too, need to develop nuclear power; how images of thousands of migrants surging from Morocco into the Spanish city of Ceuta, in North Africa, have led EU ministers to try to find new solutions; and how “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” asks what it really means to grow up or to make fresh starts. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

Cheap, mass-produced drones are changing modern warfare by exposing vulnerabilities in the field. The U.S. military is taking notes, and transforming the way American troops train and fight. Also: today's stories, including how Massachusetts' large Haitian community is navigating the loss of temporary protected status; why Uruguay's decades-old cooperative housing model is gaining new attention; and how India has changed the process for how individuals identify their gender, sparking protests and court challenges. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

The success of India's “Cockroach” protests is reinvigorating something that experts say has been lost under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 12 years in power – and that's a sense that dissent matters. This is good news for India's democracy. Also: today's stories, including the launch of the Women's Professional Baseball League; the changing goals of the U.S. and Iran war; and how the new U.S. military service designed to ensure American space superiority was tested in Iran and Venezuela. Join the Monitor's Matthew Bell for today's news.

Tuesday's primary for Michigan's open Senate seat is serving as a proxy battle over the Democratic Party's future, underscoring racial and generational divisions over everything from healthcare to immigration to aid for Israel. How it all plays out could shape the direction of the party, including the 2028 presidential race. Also: today's stories, including how the collapse of a possible compromise to reopen the Strait of Hormuz could expand the conflict in the Middle East; how Japan's first female prime minister is navigating a challenging first year in office; and how some states are suing the Trump administration for redirecting wind power funding towards fossil fuels. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

Federal law and Trump administration rules lay out transparency requirements for the U.S. government's use of artificial intelligence. When the Monitor asked about one tool designed to vet immigrant children's sponsors, information about it disappeared. Also: today's stories, including how some major US firms are rethinking staffing strategies amid a global collapse of entry-level jobs; a look at one woman's conflicted campaign to expel South Africa's migrants; and how Seattle is giving city streets back to kids as spaces to play. Join the Monitor's Chris Sherman for today's news.

Europe is dealing with record-breaking wildfires. Some of them are so intense, the authorities are unable to contain them. Climate change is part of the story. But forest management is another factor. Also: today's stories, including how despite extensive Iranian retaliation, people in the UAE are coming through the U.S. and Israel's conflict with Iran with a new sense of national pride; how the U.S. government is spending well beyond its means at a breathtaking pace; and how an unregulated market for hemp in the Carolinas is raising public safety concerns. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

The stalemate between the U.S. and Iran over control of the Strait of Hormuz has created a global economic shock. Now, the conflict is threatening to disrupt international shipping through the Red Sea. Also: today's stories, including how Palestinian villagers are facing discrimination by Israeli forces in South Hebron Hills, an explainer outlining how Trump v. Slaughter may impact federal agencies, and how the Ukrainian Bat Rehabilitation Center is growing in popularity thanks to social media. Join the Monitor's Matthew Bell for today's news.

There have been three federal government shutdowns during President Donald Trump's second term. The potential for a fourth this fall is driving Senate Republicans' political strategy months ahead of the budget deadline. Also: today's stories, including how U.S. tariffs rattled allies and rivals, stressed household budgets, failed to boost manufacturing, but also raised big revenue; how long-simmering frustrations with corruption and youth unemployment have bubbled over into India's streets; and how Ancient Greek, it turns out, is not dead. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

Two recent killings of immigrants by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers have raised questions about whether the shootings were justified. Officers wearing body cameras would add a piece of evidence to contested encounters. Also: today's stories, including a look at the Trump administration's expected announcement of a civil nuclear agreement with Saudi Arabia; how the recent Supreme Court decision on birthright citizenship signals that the national discussion about the topic is not settled; and a review of Andrea Wulf's biography of 18th century naturalist George Forster, exploring how his globe-trotting youth made him more tolerant of Indigenous peoples and customs. Join the Monitor's Kendra Nordin Beato for today's news.

As U.S.-Iran fighting reignites, American ally Jordan, which hosts U.S. forces, has increasingly come under Iranian fire. Dependent on U.S. aid, but eager to avoid angering Iran or creating domestic concerns, it is choosing its words carefully. Also: today's stories, including how the killing of a Colombian man by an ICE officer in Biddeford, Maine, has made other immigrants and Latinos feel less secure; how local humanitarian groups in a city near the front lines in Sudan's civil war have set up Emergency Response Rooms; and how young people are both creating hit content and filling seats for the in-person moviegoing experience. Join the Monitor's Jingnan Peng for today's news.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's dismissal of a popular defense minister, an architect of Ukraine's effective high-tech warfare, has sparked protests across the country. More than just strategy, youth appears part of his appeal. Also: today's stories, including a reflection on how fans were brought together during the World Cup, a dive into why Greeks are using social networks instead of traditional media for their news, and a look at Joplin, Missouri, and how they've rebuilt after a devastating tornado 15 years ago. Join the Monitor's Kurt Shillinger for today's news.

The World Cup final on Sunday is booked. But much focus will be on how the match highlights the changing of the guard at the pinnacle of soccer, between Argentine elder statesman Lionel Messi and Spanish prodigy Lamine Yamal. Also: today's stories, including how a resurgence of group songs and anthems at World Cup games offers a reminder on how shared music can bridge divides; how one bicentennial class of students reflect a divided yet hopeful America; and how a traveler's frantic sprint for a seat in Amtrak's Quiet Car led to a humorous breach of conduct. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

President Donald Trump has kept election security a front-burner issue since his loss in 2020, though his claims of fraud have been disproved. He is again elevating the issue ahead of this year's midterms, which could see Democrats regain control of at least one chamber of Congress. Also: today's stories, including how federal law enforcement participating in immigration operations have killed four people this year; how each side in the U.S.-Iran war is internally divided on the way forward, making resolution of the conflict problematic; and how England's national soccer team was dealt a semifinal loss to Argentina in the World Cup. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

With many of the hawkish voices on China muted or sidelined, the Trump administration has a dearth of seasoned China hands, raising questions about who is helping guide U.S. policy toward China. Other countries may be taking note. Also: today's stories, including why Syrians are voicing confidence in public safety even as some distrust official accounts of recent bombings; how Utah residents are reacting to President Donald Trump's proclamations that dramatically shrink two of Utah's national monuments; and our film critic's round-up of great classic literary film adaptations. Join the Monitor's Matthew Bell for today's news.

A U.S.-Iran deal in mid-June caused oil prices – and inflation rates – to plunge globally. What happens next depends on the antagonists vying over the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Also: today's stories, including how Senator Mitch McConnell's ongoing recovery could keep him away at a time Republicans need all the votes they can get; why Africa has overtaken Europe as the region with the largest number of French speakers; and how a black-and-white rescue dog named Tsunami has become a symbol of promise. Join the Monitor's Chris Sherman for today's news.