SUMMARY: Saad bin Atef al-Awlaki, leader of al-Qaida’s Yemen branch (AQAP), issued his first video message since taking leadership, threatening U.S. President Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and other leaders over the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. Al-Awlaki called for lone-wolf attacks against leaders in Egypt, Jordan, and Gulf states, emphasizing “no red lines” in retaliation for Gaza’s suffering. AQAP, weakened by U.S. drone strikes but still considered dangerous, has about 3,000-4,000 members and funds operations through robberies and smuggling. This video challenges the Iran-backed Houthis’ influence amid Yemen’s ongoing war, signaling AQAP’s intent to remain a key regional player.

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The post Yemen’s al-Qaida branch leader threatens Trump, Musk and others appeared first on www.news4jax.com

SUMMARY: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed 11 new laws covering various topics as the legislative session nears its end. Key measures include allowing certain nursing homes to reserve beds for veterans (effective July 1), repealing a defunct narcotics unit in Broward County, and prohibiting conflicts of interest in the North Springs Improvement District. A new special arts and entertainment district in Oviedo permits alcohol to be carried openly with regulated cups. Other laws revise fire and police pensions in Tampa, adjust water district governance, and expand veteran services, including suicide prevention and stricter oversight of veterans’ benefits advisors. Many laws took effect immediately; some start July 1.

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The post Florida Gov. DeSantis approves latest batch of laws. Here’s the full list appeared first on www.clickorlando.com

SUMMARY: Suspended Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez pleaded not guilty to federal racketeering charges linked to an illegal gambling ring that generated over \$21 million, with Lopez allegedly receiving around \$700,000. His \$1 million bond remains unpaid amid strict conditions, including proving his posted collateral isn’t connected to the gambling operation. Prosecutors say they have evidence of Lopez using his sheriff position to obstruct investigations, constituting a severe breach of public trust. Two co-defendants appeared in court; one was released on bond, another remains jailed. Governor Ron DeSantis appointed Christopher Blackmon as interim sheriff amid community shock and calls for restored leadership.

Suspended Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez has pleaded not guilty to charges of racketeering and conspiracy to commit racketeering. Lopez attended a bond hearing on Friday morning. A judge ordered he be held on a $1 million bond — $500,000 for each charge. If he posts bond, he will have to be fitted with a GPS monitor, turn in his passport, and surrender any firearms. Lopez and others are accused of running an illegal gambling operation. A state prosecutor alleged at the hearing that Lopez received $600,ooo to $700,000 from the operation over the years. The entire enterprise brought in more than $21 million, according to the complaint.

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