CNN 5 Things ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ hearing, back-to-school shopping, new dictionary words & more
Aug 18, 2025
Leaders from Ukraine and Europe are convening at the White House to discuss a potential peace plan with Russia. A federal judge is reviewing a lawsuit against a controversial immigration detention center in Florida. Chilling insights emerge from a leaked recording involving Israeli military intelligence. Surprisingly, back-to-school shopping trends are showing unexpected locales. Meanwhile, TikTok is influencing language with new words making it into the dictionary.
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High-Stakes White House Peace Push
- President Trump called Monday a "big day" as leaders meet to discuss a potential Ukraine peace plan at the White House.
- Diplomatic talks continue even as Russian strikes hit Kharkiv, Zaporizhia, and Sumy, underscoring the urgency.
Legal Fears At 'Alligator Alcatraz'
- Lawyers argue the Alligator Alcatraz site creates a legal "black hole" by blocking detainees' access to attorneys and courts.
- DHS says attorneys can meet clients onsite or request email communication, and construction was temporarily paused by a judge.
Stunning Remarks From Israeli Intelligence
- A leaked recording quotes Major General Aron Khalifa saying mass Palestinian deaths in Gaza were "necessary," a statement he later said was leaked and taken out of context.
- The recording's date and audience remain unclear, but the comments prompted public shock and his earlier resignation.