Terror Strikes Synagogue, University; Mideast Conflict Escalates

Suspect Rams Car into Michigan Synagogue, FBI Probes Terrorism Link

West Bloomfield, MI – A chilling incident unfolded yesterday at Temple Israel synagogue when a man, identified as Ahmed Mohammed Ghazali, a naturalized U.S. citizen from Lebanon, drove a car through the building’s entrance. The vehicle traveled down a hallway before the suspect was killed in a confrontation with synagogue security guards. The FBI is investigating the act as a targeted act of violence against the Jewish community.

The attack occurred around noon, with authorities responding to reports of an active shooter. Fortunately, no children or staff members were harmed, as a preschool class was in session at the time. Approximately 140 children and staff were present and were safely evacuated. Smoke was seen billowing from the building, and about 30 law enforcement officers were treated for smoke inhalation. One security guard was injured after being struck by the vehicle but is expected to survive.

Early reports suggest a potential motive may be linked to the suspect’s family. A local Lebanese official told NBC News that several members of Ghazali’s family were killed in an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon just last week. The FBI has confirmed multiple local, state, and federal agencies are involved in the investigation, but a definitive motive has not yet been identified. Investigators are also working to determine how the vehicle ignited during the attack.

“This is a deeply disturbing and tragic incident, and our deepest sympathies are with the victims, their family, and the entire Jewish community,” stated an FBI official.

Jason Plotkin, the executive director of Temple Israel, was in his office adjacent to the hallway where the vehicle entered. He described hearing a loud crash, followed by the sound of gunshots. “Instincts kicked in. We do security training regularly,” Plotkin said, recounting how he hid under his desk before needing to evacuate due to the heavy smoke.

Rabbi Joshua L. Bennett, who was off-site during the attack, rushed to the synagogue. “Unfortunately, by the time I arrived, the police presence was so enormous that the roads were blocked,” he explained. He noted the strong partnerships with community members who helped establish a staging area for parents to collect their children.

Temple Israel has implemented robust security measures, including regular training and a dedicated security staff. Plotkin highlighted the importance of these measures and the swift response from security and law enforcement. “Our security team is our own guys… these gentlemen executed as they’re supposed to, they engaged the individual and, you know, neutralized the individual to keep us all safe,” he said.

Rabbi Bennett conveyed a message of resilience to the Jewish community: “The Jewish community will remain strong, that we are not going to allow these moments to deter us from our worship, from our education, and from being a powerful community.” He also acknowledged the challenging times faced by Jewish communities globally.

Old Dominion University Shooting Investigated as Terrorism

Norfolk, VA – In a separate incident, Old Dominion University is investigating a shooting that occurred in a classroom as an act of terrorism. A gunman, identified as 36-year-old Mohamed Salah, opened fire in an ROTC class, killing one person and injuring two others. The suspect was subdued by students and subsequently died.

Authorities reported that Salah explicitly targeted the ROTC class and shouted “Allahu Akbar” before the attack. Court documents reveal that Salah had a prior conviction in 2016 for attempting to provide material support to ISIS, for which he was sentenced to 11 years in prison and released in 2024.

The victim has been identified as Lieutenant Colonel Brandon Shaw, a devoted ROTC instructor. The injured individuals were also identified as Army personnel. Students in the classroom bravely intervened to subdue the shooter, an act praised by officials. “And if not for them, I’m not sure what else he may have done,” said one official.

Classes at Old Dominion University have been canceled for the remainder of the week as the investigation continues. Officials are seeking public assistance to understand Salah’s specific motive and to identify any individuals he may have been in contact with prior to the incident.

Mideast Tensions Surge: US Aircraft Down, Iran Issues Threats

The conflict involving Iran has intensified, with new developments emerging overnight. U.S. Central Command confirmed that an Air Force refueling aircraft crashed in western Iraq, resulting in the deaths of four of the six crew members aboard. Military officials stated the incident was not a result of friendly fire or combat.

This tragedy comes as Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, issued his first public statement. The message, read on state TV, warned that the Strait of Hormuz should remain closed and vowed continued attacks on Middle Eastern neighbors hosting U.S. bases. President Trump responded via Truth Social, stating the U.S. is “totally destroying the terrorist regime in Iran” and warning to “watch what happens next.”

From Tel Aviv, NBC News international correspondent Matt Bradley reported that while missile sirens in Israel have decreased in frequency, the overall conflict remains volatile. He noted that the IDF believes the number of missiles in each salvo has been decreasing, making them easier to intercept.

Bradley also highlighted concerns over approximately 450 kilograms of highly enriched uranium (up to 60%) that remains unaccounted for by the U.S. and Israel, raising fears it could be used for nuclear weapons development. “It’s about the size and weight of a grand piano or maybe a small horse. So it’s something that you can’t put in your pocket, but it could be moved. So it could be anywhere in Iran right now,” he stated.

Oil Prices Soar Amidst Mideast Conflict; US Policy Shifts

The escalating conflict in the Middle East is causing oil and gas prices to skyrocket, prompting shifts in U.S. policy. President Trump’s messaging on the economic impact has varied, with a recent Truth Social post suggesting that rising oil prices are profitable for “us.” This statement comes after his administration ordered the release of 172 million barrels of oil from the U.S. Strategic Reserve to mitigate price pressures.

During a recent State of the Union address, President Trump had highlighted lower gas prices as a success, but prices have since risen significantly. Capitol Hill correspondent Julie Tsirkin reported on the pressure the administration faces to justify its actions and their impact on American consumers.

In response to rising prices, the administration has temporarily lifted some sanctions on Russian oil. The Treasury Department has allowed India, a country reliant on Russian energy, to temporarily purchase these products. Secretary Scott Bessent stated this move “will not provide significant financial benefit to the Russian government.” However, this decision has drawn criticism from some Democrats and Republicans who argue it undermines efforts to penalize Russia for its actions in Ukraine.

On Capitol Hill, Democrats are attempting to place checks on the President’s foreign policy powers. Senators, including Tim Kaine, are pushing for a War Powers Resolution concerning Cuba, aiming to prevent potential military action without Congressional input. This effort continues despite previous failed attempts to curtail the administration’s foreign policy authority.

Severe Storms Batter Coasts; Winter Weather Lingers

Mother Nature is showing no mercy as a series of severe storms impact both coasts of the United States. Hawaii is currently experiencing a powerful Kona storm, with high wind advisories in effect and significant rainfall causing widespread flooding on Oahu.

On the mainland, winter weather is clinging on. Several inches of snow fell on Richmond, Virginia, following a dramatic temperature drop. Washington state is facing a major snowstorm, with Snoqualmie Pass expected to receive up to four feet of snow. In Colorado, wind gusts of up to 80 miles per hour are creating severe dust storms that drastically reduce visibility.

Meteorologist Angie Lassman reported that winter alerts are affecting over 20 million people across the country. Snow continues to fall in parts of Michigan and Wisconsin, with rain impacting areas further south. The Great Lakes region and New England can expect continued snow and wind, leading to hazardous travel conditions. While a cold snap is affecting the East, the Southwest is experiencing record-breaking heat, with triple-digit temperatures expected in some areas.

Calorie Controversy Surrounds Popular Protein Bar

A popular brand of protein bars is now at the center of a class-action lawsuit, with allegations of undercounting calories. The lawsuit raises questions about the accuracy of nutritional information consumers rely on for their food choices.

Source: Morning News NOW Full Episode – March 13 (YouTube)