CNN 5 Things Israel strikes Syria, DOGE cuts, teens turn to AI & more
Jul 16, 2025
Israel has launched new military strikes in Syria, raising tensions in the region. In the U.S., significant budget cuts are being debated that could affect public broadcasting. The political landscape is heating up as Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. dismisses two top aides. Meanwhile, teens are increasingly turning to AI for support with their problems, sparking concerns among experts about the potential impacts on their social skills and emotional well-being.
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Israel Strikes Syria Over Druze Conflict
- Israel struck Syria's capital due to clashes in the southern province of Sweida involving the Druze minority and Bredowin tribes.
- Israel claims to protect the Druze community and opposes Syrian military presence in what it calls a unilateral demilitarized zone.
Senate Debates $9B Funding Cuts
- The Senate is debating a $9 billion funding cuts package targeting foreign aid and public broadcasting programs.
- Some Republicans set a fast deadline to pass it, despite opposition citing harm and poor precedent.
Public Media Faces Major Funding Loss
- Cuts to nearly $1.1 billion federal funding could severely impact NPR and PBS, especially rural stations.
- Public media executives already plan layoffs and cost cuts, while debates over bias and politics continue.