Wray warns of increased terrorist threat, says U.S. is in a ‘dangerous period’ Senior American officials say Hamas’ deadly Oct. 7 attack on Israel has created a new dynamic with dangerous implications at home and abroad. Read more on NPR

Lionel Messi wins 8th Ballon d’Or; Spain’s Aitana Bonmatí is named top female player Messi has now won 12% of all men’s Ballon d’Or trophies. Both of this year’s winners are midfielders who led their national teams to long-awaited World Cup victories. Read more on NPR

House Republicans aim to pay for Israel aid with cuts to IRS funds Democrats want Israel and Ukraine funding to be linked together. House Republicans are proposing a standalone bill with roughly $14 billion for Israel offset with cuts to the Internal Revenue Service. Read more on NPR

In ‘White Holes,’ Carlo Rovelli takes readers beyond the black hole horizon Physicist Carlo Rovelli is unique among modern scientists who write for popular audiences in his ability to capture the purest essence of his science with both precision and lyricism. Read more on NPR

In a new expulsion campaign, Pakistan is forcing many Afghans out of the country Pakistan has drawn criticism for warning those living in the country illegally to leave or be arrested and deported after Oct. 31. The U.N. says over 2 million undocumented Afghans live in Pakistan. Read more on NPR