CNN 5 Things

Delays in returning the remains of deceased Israeli hostages may stretch for weeks amid ongoing ceasefire discussions. The impact of a government shutdown is discussed, highlighting potential federal workforce consequences. New York's Attorney General Letitia James delivered a passionate speech at a rally, showcasing her determination despite legal challenges. Instagram is shifting to a PG-13 rating for some users, aiming to enhance safety. In an exciting medical breakthrough, a new FDA-approved blood test helps diagnose Alzheimer’s for those over 55.

The ongoing ceasefire in Gaza raises important questions about maintaining peace and military engagement. Meanwhile, the Pentagon is reallocating funds to ensure troops get paid amidst a government shutdown. North Carolina Republicans are pushing to redraw House districts, aiming to gain an advantage in the upcoming elections. Severe weather wreaks havoc across several states, with Alaska facing stormy conditions and Arizona dealing with devastating floods. Lastly, SpaceX successfully tests its Starship V2, paving the way for future lunar missions.

A ceasefire deal in Egypt stirs conversations about the Middle East, while a government shutdown looms as House Speaker Mike Johnson issues a stark warning. In a significant shakeup, the Justice Department sees key personnel changes that may impact ongoing cases. Alaska faces devastation from Typhoon Halong, with reports of rescues and missing persons amid severe weather. Meanwhile, OpenAI announces a groundbreaking partnership to develop custom AI chips, highlighting the increasing power demands of artificial intelligence.

Trump declares a 'new dawn' for the Middle East during a speech in Israel. The Smithsonian and National Zoo face closures amid a government shutdown, but animal care continues. Stormy weather grips the East Coast with high tides and strong winds. Stock markets stabilize as tensions with China ease following Trump's softened tariff threats. Meanwhile, the planet's alarming climate milestone raises concerns about the future.

Twenty Israeli hostages have been released, sparking emotional reunions. Chaos erupted at the CDC with hundreds fired and then reinstated in one weekend over coding errors. In legal news, a court has ruled on the deployment of National Guard troops in Chicago. A tragic mass shooting at a South Carolina bar left four dead during a high school event. Lastly, the podcast pays tribute to Hollywood legend Diane Keaton, celebrating her iconic roles and lasting legacy.

Ari Peksoe, Director of the Electricity Law Initiative at Harvard Law School, delves into the complexities of the AI boom's impact on electricity consumption. He discusses how data centers, crucial for AI, not only consume massive amounts of power but can also lead to soaring utility bills for consumers. Peksoe outlines the regulatory challenges and suggests that necessary reforms might come too late. He urges listeners to engage with policymakers to address how tech companies contribute to rising infrastructure costs.

A revolutionary molecular framework that won a Nobel Prize works like a magical handbag, promising to impact carbon capture. An Indigenous inventor utilizes a robot to teach a nearly lost language to children in an engaging way. Wildlife conservation efforts shine as a photographer helps hermit crabs find safe shells. In a heartwarming tale, a comedian revives an audience member, leading to a touching reunion. Plus, a man joyfully reconnects with his dog after a decade apart, thanks to a microchip.

Massive government layoffs are starting as the shutdown continues, affecting many federal employees. A powerful explosion at an explosives plant in Tennessee has left 19 people dead or missing, and local neighborhoods devastated. U.S. troops are now on the ground in Israel to help with humanitarian efforts amid the Gaza ceasefire. Meanwhile, tensions rise in the trade war between the U.S. and China, potentially rocking the stock market further. Lastly, severe weekend weather is threatening parts of the East and Southwest with heavy storms and flooding.

A ceasefire has allowed thousands of Palestinians to return to Gaza City, bringing a measure of hope. Meanwhile, the indictment of New York Attorney General Letitia James has sparked significant political reactions. Allegations surface that the Trump administration attempted to block security grants for Muslim groups, raising eyebrows about bias. Tesla is under investigation for safety issues related to its Full Self-Driving technology, raising concerns over its vehicles. The 2025 Nobel Peace Prize honors María Corina Machado for her efforts in promoting democracy in Venezuela.

Israel's government has approved a US-brokered ceasefire plan, sparking emotional reactions from Palestinians about the details. In Illinois, a judge has halted National Guard deployments, while tensions in Congress escalate over the government shutdown. A military spouse confronted House Speaker Mike Johnson in a tense exchange. Meanwhile, Ukraine faces a massive Russian attack on its energy infrastructure. Lastly, a judge dismissed Drake's defamation lawsuit regarding a diss-track, reinforcing the song's status as opinion.