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Missile Fire from Yemen's Houthi Rebels Triggers Sirens in Central Israel for the Second Night

  For the second consecutive night, air raid sirens blared across central Israel as a missile launched from Yemen's Houthi rebels was intercepted by Israeli air defenses early Wednesday morning. The missile, aimed at the Tel Aviv area, was successfully intercepted before crossing into Israeli territory, though shrapnel from the interception fell in several towns.  This marks the fourth time in a week that missile fire from the Houthi rebels has set off sirens in Israel. On Saturday, a missile hit a playground in Tel Aviv, injuring 16 people after Israel's air defense system failed to intercept it. In response, Israeli jets struck Yemen's rebel-held capital and a port city, resulting in nine casualties.  Israel's foreign minister has requested an emergency meeting of the U.N. Security Council to condemn the Houthi attacks and their alleged Iranian allies for providing the rebels with weapons. The situation remains tense as both sides continue to exchange fire, with the H...

Federal Feserve Lowers Interest Rates Amid Economic Uncertainty

 

In a move aimed at bolstering the economy, the Federal Reserve has cut interest rates by 25 basis points, bringing the new target range to 4.50%-4.75%. This decision marks the second consecutive rate cut by the central bank, following a larger 50-basis-point reduction in September.

The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) justified the rate cut as a necessary step to support its dual mandate of maintaining stable prices and maximizing employment. Recent economic data has shown mixed signals, with inflation cooling but the labor market showing signs of softening. The latest Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) index indicated that inflation rose 2.1% in September, close to the Fed’s 2% target, but core inflation remained steady at 2.7%.

Fed Chair Jerome Powell emphasized the importance of this adjustment in a press conference, noting that the central bank is committed to navigating the complex economic landscape to ensure sustainable growth. The unanimous vote by the FOMC reflects a cautious approach to monetary policy as the Fed continues to balance the risks of inflation and employment.

This rate cut is expected to make borrowing slightly cheaper for consumers and businesses, potentially stimulating economic activity. However, the Fed’s removal of certain language from its policy statement has raised questions about the pace and number of future rate cuts.

As the economic outlook remains uncertain, the Federal Reserve’s actions will be closely watched by markets and policymakers alike.


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