EXCLUSIVE: PitchCom was introduced to MLB at the beginning of the 2022 season, and the communication system has quickly become prominent in the baseball world, overhauling pitcher-catcher communication.Perfect Game, a youth baseball company that promotes baseball by hosting high-quality amateur events and providing exposure for players to play at higher levels, is the first organization of its kind to partner with PitchCom, Fox News Digital exclusively learned Thursday.PitchCom emerged after the Houston Astros sign-stealing scandal during their World Series run in 2017 rocked the baseball world.CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COMJohn Hankins, co-investor and co-owner of PitchCom, saw that MLB had a need for a communication device that could prevent sign stealing. The challenge was the device couldnt be vocal, and MLB officials didnt want players to wear a communication device on their bodies.Hankins came up with PitchCom, which allows a catcher to press a button on a transmitter to call pitches. The transmitter sends prerecorded audio clips to the receivers, who in turn will hear the pitch call and defensive signals.The pitcher and fielders wear the receiver in their hats and can hear what the catcher inputs, allowing for clear and secure communication safe from being stolen, unlike traditional catcher signs.When Major League Baseball first heard of it, it loved the idea.TIGERS' TARIK SKUBAL PITCHES INCREDIBLE GAME IN WIN OVER GUARDIANS: 'SKY IS THE LIMIT'"(We had) a meeting before a playoff game. The immediate response was this solves all of our problems," Hankins told Fox News Digital."That was nice, and we left the meeting feeling pretty good. But, within about an hour, we got another phone call that said, 'Can you meet with 20 of our executives on Zoom tomorrow. That was a positive sign."After that meeting, Major League Baseball became PitchComs first client.Jered Goodwin, the vice president of scouting operations at Perfect Game, trains with MLB players during the offseason. Goodwin told Fox News Digital the players had "a ton of positive feedback" about PitchCom."I can tell you from a guy that gets to coach some pitchers during the offseason, they love being on a level playing field," Goodwin said."Theyre throwing a pitch without anybody on the field being able to know whats coming (prior to PitchCom), and theres been open conversations about that. There hasnt been a lot of negative feedback. You get some transmitters you got to replace, but it takes a really short amount of time. And I think really everybody in baseball, players to owners and especially fans, have loved the pace of play and the shorter games.""Obviously, some other rules were put into effect as well, but the direct communication in the short amount of time it takes has definitely been a ton of positive feedback."ROCKIES FAN FILES LAWSUIT AGAINST MLB TEAM, CLAIMS TO HAVE SUFFERED INJURIES DUE TO CLUB'S LACKLUSTER OUTPUTGoodwin said he first thought of trying to bring PitchCom to Perfect Game when MLB began using it. He called it an "easy decision" to bring PitchCom into youth baseball and to form a partnership."I knew very early on that this was going to be something that was going to stick, so as its grown into major college baseball, to MLB, its great that we got to have a direct path for our players and our coaches to be able to learn operationally, intensely during a game. Anything like that of what they are going to use directly at the next level. So, it really was on the agenda as soon as it could be scaled," Goodwin said.Jon Updike, vice president of customer relations at PitchCom, said the device offers youth players benefits beyond just pitcher-catcher communication."Its just not calling the pitches," Updike said. "Its the ability to send in maybe technical cues, but even more so than that, Hey, great job or Youre going to get them next time."You are able to send in some psychological messages to them as well that will help either uplift them or snap them into place, which is a lot easier when its being whispered to an 8-year-old or a 12-year-old or 14-year-olds ear than being yelled across the field."Goodwin said the introduction of PitchCom into Perfect Game will allow for more development among kids."Being able to talk through, especially with direct communication, being able to talk directly about why you called a pitch, how you were calling a pitch, being able to go over what those different reasons were, because youve got just an extra second to be able to do it. When you can speed up the game but also slow down the process, some real development of the why? can happen," Goodwin said.SHOHEI OHTANIS FIRST TIME PITCHING TO HITTERS AS A DODGER IS A SUCCESS: HES A TOP-END STARTER"I think you are going to see some things come out directly related to PitchCom helping with development. Whether its pitch calling, whether its the speed of the game, whether its location that (is) really going to help the youth be able to understand how they are trying to attack, why they are trying to attack, why this in that situation or that pitch in this situation and thats one of the things that nobody is really dove into yet."But at Perfect Game we are constantly trying to find different ways to develop, and I think this is going to be a real asset to young ballplayers."Not only does Goodwin believe PitchCom will help players development. It should also change the way coaches teach and communicate in games."It speeds up the time, but it also slows down whats going on. Reaffirm some of the things that you might have gone over in practice. So, I think its such a huge advantage when these young athletes are going to be able to have that sense of pace, but also a sense of communication and development at a younger age," Goodwin said.Updike said the introduction of PitchCom at the youth baseball level will make for cleaner games because of the enhanced communication the device allows."I see it has an opportunity to reduce pitches, which will directly, in turn, have a chance of reducing over usage and injury," Updike said. "Just from having better information or paying attention to it. And then, on top of that, it makes it a cleaner baseball game. Less wild pitches, less cross-ups and more quality executed pitches."The voice that comes through the transmitter is an AI-generated voice, but Updike said the voice can be "anybodys voice.""Its a simple, easy, clean process. And then what we found is that some of our colleges and some of our major league clubs would run the tracks through an AI voice generator to create something else. Whether it was a star or a famous voice and then put it on, sometimes even recording other players, its kind of like your limitation is your imagination with it," Updike said.Updike said he heard one pitcher in college baseball customize the voice to be his favorite musician."I wont give up the secret sauce for a few clubs, but like we have a college, a really good NCAA team, their Friday night guy is a real good pitcher, and hes got a musician that he loves, or a rapper, and its that rappers' voice every time they call a pitch. So, its unique to see how creative everybodys been with the product," Updike said.Goodwin said he heard a story about how a coach programmed the voice to be a players mothers voice, and that it provided good results for the player."The guy had a really close relationship with his mom, and the coaches wanted to see if that in turn would kind of be a calming presence. So I thought that was pretty cool, pretty interesting. Obviously, a lot going on with sports psychology now and things like that. So, I think there are a lot of things that you can do here even from voice recognition to maybe help kids, and maybe not," Goodwin said."I do know that in the early stages of this the kid actually did very well when it happened."The PitchCom's will be given out to Perfect Game in August, and coaches and players will be able to use them for the All-American Classic and PG Select Festivals.Follow Fox News Digitals sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

A U.S. federal judge has inflicted another blow to the Trump administrations efforts to end a multiple Biden-era parole program for hundreds of thousands of migrants from Afghanistan, Latin America and Ukraine.U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani of Massachusetts on Wednesday ordered the Trump administration to resume processing applications from those migrants who are seeking work permits or renewing their status.Talwani, an appointee of former President Barack Obama, rejected the Trump administration's claim that suspending the parole programs was within its broad discretion to direct immigration policy.FEDERAL JUDGE BLOCKS TRUMP ADMIN FROM REVOKING TEMPORARY LEGAL STATUS OF HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF MIGRANTSFederal law still requires agencies under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to follow a lengthy process for granting or denying parole and other immigration relief, she wrote in siding with migrants pursuing a class action lawsuit.Talwani also certified a nationwide class, temporarily protecting all individuals in several humanitarian parole programs while the case proceeds."This court emphasizes, as it did in its prior order, that it is not in the public interest to manufacture a circumstance in which hundreds of thousands of individuals will, over the course of several months, become unlawfully present in the country, such that these individuals cannot legally work in their communities or provide for themselves and their families," the judge wrote."Nor is it in the public interest for individuals who enlisted and are currently serving in the United States military to face family separation, particularly where some of these individuals joined the military in part to help their loved ones obtain lawful status."Some of the applicants were paroled into the U.S. after working with the U.S. military as translators.TRUMP ADMIN PULLING LEGAL STATUS FOR MORE THAN 530K MIGRANTSThe migrantswere granted a two-year "parole" to live in the country under programs established by former President Joe Biden. The programs let migrants and their immediate family members fly to theUnited Statesas long as they had sponsors in America. Then, they would be placed on parole for two years.However, the Trump administration has been trying to end all parole programs as part of its immigration crackdown and has already asked the Supreme Court to weigh in on the matter. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Jan. 20 directing the government to end "all categorical parole programs" set up during the Biden administration.Last month, Talwani blocked the administrations effort to revoke parole and work authorization en masse for migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela, ruling that such actions required case-by-case determinations.Anwen Hughes, a lawyer for the plaintiffs at Human Rights First, said in a statement that they are pleased with the ruling."This ruling reaffirms what we have always known to be true: our government has a legal obligation to respect the rights of all humanitarian parole beneficiaries and the Americans who have welcomed them into their communities," Hughes said."We share the judges hope that the government will adhere to this order and immediately resume adjudicating our clients applications for relief."Reuters contributed to this report.

A Louisiana rapper who was convicted on gun charges is now thanking President Donald Trump for pardoning him, saying he is "giving me the opportunity to keep building -- as a man, as a father, and as an artist."NBA YoungBoy, whose real name is Kentrell Gaulden, made the statement as Trump issued a number of pardons Wednesday. Last year, Gaulden was sentenced by a federal judge in Utah after he acknowledged possessing weapons despite being a convicted felon. However, hereached an agreement that resolved Utah state charges against him and settled two sets of federal charges against him -- one carried a 23-month sentence and the other ordered five years of probation and a $200,000 fine."I want to thank President Trump for granting me a pardon and for giving me the opportunity to keep building -- as a man, as a father, and as an artist," Gaulden, whose stage moniker stands for "Never Broke Again," wrote on his Instagram. "This moment means a lot."TRUMP PARDONS EX-CONNECTICUT GOVERNOR ROWLAND AND COMMUTES CHICAGO GANG LEADER HOOVER'S SENTENCE"It opens the door to a future Ive worked hard for and I am fully prepared to step into this," Gaulden added.Gaulden was released from federal prison in March and sent to home confinement after receiving credit for time served,his attorney Drew Findling told the Associated Press. With home confinement finished last month, the pardon means he won't have to follow the terms of his probation, including drug testing, he said."From Louisiana to Utah the battles have been endless, and now he can concentrate on first and foremost his family, and then, of course, his amazing career," Findling said in a statement.ISLAND BOYS RAPPER FRANKY VENEGAS ARRESTED IN FLORIDA ON GUN, DRUG CHARGESThe rapper has acknowledged that he possessed a Glock 21 .45-caliber pistol and a Masterpiece Arms MPA30T 9mm handgun while filming a rap video in Baton Rouge. He has also said he had a Sig Sauer 9mm semi-automatic pistol at his home in Huntsville, Utah. He had agreed to give up the guns.Gaulden had previously been convicted in Louisiana of aggravated assault with a firearm, according to his statement released in advance of the plea agreement.He had also pleaded guilty in November to his role in a prescription drug fraud ring that operated out of his home in Utah. He had to pay a $25,000 fine and was given no prison time.Gaulden, who has achieved four No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200 and one Top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, is now preparing to set out on a major U.S. arena tour later this year.The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Archaeologists recently discovered the purpose of a mysterious 1,500-year-old bucket at one of England's most historic sites and it wasn't pleasant.The National Trust released a statement about the Byzantine Bromeswell bucket, found at Sutton Hoo, in May.The site of two ancient Anglo-Saxon cemeteries, Sutton Hoo has offered a wealth of knowledge about pre-Norman British history since its first excavation in 1938.STRANGE VIKING GRAVE WITH 'CHRISTIAN OVERTONES' DISCOVERED BY PERPLEXED ARCHAEOLOGISTS: 'VERY UNUSUAL'During an excavation last summer, archaeologists unearthed the base of the Bromeswell bucket, which dates back to the 6th century. Different fragments of the bucket were uncovered in past excavations, but this latest discovery gave researchers more to study.With the base in hand, researchers quickly went to work to analyze the artifact with a variety of techniques, including computerized tomography, CT scans and X-rays and they found an answer.In a morbid turn of events, experts learned the bucket was used to hold the cremated remains of an important person, and their grave goods."The cremated human and animal bones uncovered confirm the find was used as a cremation vessel," the National Trust noted.The organization added, "Cremated human bones included parts of a talus (ankle bone) and fragments of a skull vault (the upper part of the skull that protects the brain)."The bucket dates back to the 500s. It's decorated with a hunting scene depicting men armed with swords and shields, as well as dogs and lions painting a vivid picture of life in the past."The latest fragments include feet, paws, the base of shields and even the missing face of one of the men," the statement described.It is believed the bucket came from Antioch in the Byzantine Empire, now located in modern Turkey.The National Trust noted, "Letterforms used within the buckets design suggest it was made in the 6th century, meaning it was already 100 years old when it arrived here at Sutton Hoo."Researchers also found "a mystery object" that turned out to be a double-sided comb made from an antler. Interestingly, the object had not been burned.LATE BRONZE AGE SETTLEMENT DATING BACK 3,000 YEARS UNCOVERED AMID ROAD WORK: 'IMPORTANT DISCOVERY'The National Trust said the presence of the comb suggests the Anglo-Saxons took grooming seriously, as combs have been found in male and female burials before."Slightly less romantically, combs also would have been useful in the control of lice," the statement said. "Although the human bone in the cremation couldnt be sexed, its hoped that ancient DNA from the owner might survive on the comb, and analysis could reveal more about them."National Trust archaeologist Angus Wainwright said that he was "hopeful" future research will uncover new insight into "this very special burial."For more Lifestyle articles, visit foxnews.com/lifestyle"We knew that this bucket would have been a rare and prized possession back in Anglo-Saxon times, but its always been a mystery why it was buried," Wainwrightsaid."Now we know it was used to contain the remains of an important person in the Sutton Hoo community."CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTERAnglo-Saxon expert Helen Geake told the National Trust the puzzle of the Bromeswell bucket has "finally" been solved."Now we know that it is the first of these rare objects ever to have been used in a cremation burial," she said."Its a remarkable mixture a vessel from the southern, classical world containing the remains of a very northern, very Germanic cremation."She also said the find "epitomizes the strangeness" of Sutton Hoo, which has captivated British history enthusiasts for decades."It has ship burials, horse burials, mound burials and now bath-bucket burials," Geake observed."Who knows what else?"

Spring is an exciting season. The weather is getting warmer, flowers are blooming and you can finally spend some much-needed time outdoors. However, for many allergy sufferers, this time of year can be a double-edged sword.The influx of pollen in the air can trigger sneezing, itchy eyes and a host of other uncomfortable symptoms that make enjoying the season a challenge. Pet owners also often find themselves battling another allergen: pet hair.Fortunately, modern technology offers a solution to these seasonal woes. Vacuum cleaners designed specifically for allergy sufferers can significantly reduce the presence of allergens in your home, providing relief and allowing you to breathe easier.8 NATURAL REMEDIES ON SALE THAT CAN HELP COMBAT SPRING ALLERGIESOriginal price: $279.99The Kenmore 400 series vacuum is a lightweight, swivel steering vacuum with a triple HEPA filter system. The two-motor system delivers extra-strong suction strength on any surface, and the wand extends up to 9.5 feet, so you dont miss any nook or cranny. This particular Kenmore vacuum has a bagged system that traps dirt and pet hair, helping to eliminate all allergens.You can find many of these vacuums on Amazon, and they can be delivered to your door in 24 hours if you're anAmazon Prime member.You canjoin or start a 30-day free trialto shop.Original price: $429.99Shark vacuums are popular for a reason, and the Shark PowerDetect proves why. Its an advanced cordless vacuum thats designed to pick up more hair and dirt than other models. You can easily reach edges and corners and trap all allergens on carpet and wood floors. Where most cordless vacuums fail is in their runtime, but the Shark PowerDetect runs up to 70 minutes on a full charge, so you can tackle your whole house.8 THINGS YOU SHOULD HAVE IN YOUR HOME TO BEAT SPRING ALLERGIESCant stand the thought of vacuuming every week? A Roomba Plus 405 is the right option for your needs. Roombas vacuum on their own, and the Roomba Plus 405 also mops your floors as well. A Roomba is especially helpful for households with pets, since it automatically senses when your floors need to be vacuumed, or you can set a daily timer.A Dyson V15 is a dream for anyone who suffers from household allergies. The vacuum adapts to each type of flooring or carpet in your home, boosting the power when needed. The LCD screen shows the total picked-up particles and displays the power mode and runtime left, so you can better control your vacuuming experience.This stick vacuum is extremely lightweight and transitions into a handheld vacuum, ideal for stairs, couches and other harder-to-reach areas. The hair screw tool sucks up long hair and pet hair without getting tangled.12 AIR PURIFIERS TO HELP YOU THROUGH ALLERGY SEASONOriginal price: $199.99The Shark Navigator Lift-Away XL is a powerful, lightweight vacuum that deep cleans carpets while still being gentle on hardwood floors. This budget-friendly Shark vacuum has an anti-allergen seal and HEPA filter that traps 99.9% of dust and other allergens, helping you breathe better. The vacuum is extra-large while still being lightweight, and the lift-away feature makes it easier to reach everything.Original price: $1,369When you want a high-tech vacuum, the Miele Complete C3 fits the bill. Its a bagged vacuum with a lifetime HEPA filter thatll suck up even the smallest dust mites and allergens. Included with the vacuum are all the accessories needed to clean your entire home, including a dusting brush, upholstery nozzle, crevice nozzle and an integrated storage compartment.Mieles Complete C3 comes with a foot switch, so you dont need to constantly bend over to turn the vacuum on and off. Miele is a quiet vacuum that works on all flooring and carpet types.Original price: $199.99A Levoit cordless vacuum is an affordable daily cleaner that provides 50 minutes of power on one charge. Theres an included pet tool that specifically cleans up pet hair and helps you get to hard-to-reach areas. There are three LED lights built in that help you see dust, and the lightweight and flexible handle lets you reach every area of your home.7 HEALTH PRODUCTS TO SUPPORT YOU THROUGH SEASONAL CHANGESOriginal price: $499.99Homeowners with larger homes need a vacuum that can tackle big messes. The Dyson Ball Animal 3 is up to the challenge. The specialized pet tool helps you groom your pets, eliminating hair before it ever reaches the floor. The tangle-free turbine tool removes pet hair from your furniture.You can select from three different cleaning modes, each optimized for different floor types. Dysons ball technology allows you to easily navigate around furniture and corners, picking up hair, dust and dirt as you go.Bissell is known for its pet-friendly vacuums. Every Bissell purchase supports the Bissell Pet Foundation, which works to save homeless pets. The Bissell 2252 CleanView vacuum has a triple-action brush roll that removes embedded pet hair from all corners of your home.For more deals, visit www.foxnews.com/dealsWhen you need an ultra-affordable vacuum, the Eureka PowerSpeed vacuum is under $100. It weighs just 10 pounds, so its easy to maneuver. It also includes a pet turbo tool and an upholstery tool that can eliminate pet hair from all your furniture and floors. Instead of relying on bags, you get washable filters, making the Eureka PowerSpeed easy to maintain.

Rabbi Shmuel Herzfeld went to the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., on March 21, 2024, to pray for the safe return of the hostages. While he was there, Herzfeld was harassed by protesters who were accused of deafening him with megaphone sirens.The rabbi was then falsely accused of stalking and was later vindicated, with the accusers being ordered to pay for his $182,000 legal bills. Despite this, Herzfeld views the D.C. leaderships response to antisemitism as "insufficient," especially in light of the murders of Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim."There's a pattern here of the D.C. government not doing enough to protect the Jewish community. And I said that to Mayor Bowser, and I think that enough is enough," Herzfeld told Fox News Digital.DEADLY DC SHOOTING WAS 'TOO CLOSE FOR EVERY JEW IN AMERICA,' ACTIVIST SAYSHerzfeld said he has known D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser personally "for many years" and that he believes she is "a good person, a genuine person." However, the rabbi still holds Bowser responsible for allowing an "antisemitic environment" to grow in D.C. to the point where Jewish residents feel unsafe something the rabbi said he has heard from many Jews, including his own daughter. He told Fox News Digital that he holds the mayor responsible for "tolerating" antisemitism since Oct. 7.Elias Rodriguez, who was charged with the murders of Lischinsky and Milgrim, was heard shouting "free, free Palestine" as he was arrested. According to court documents, he told D.C. police, "I did it for Palestine, I did it for Gaza, I am unarmed."ISRAELI AMBASSADOR CONNECTS EMBASSY STAFFERS' SLAYING TO 'VERY IMPORTANT' BIGGER PICTUREAfter the reported statements by Rodriguez, and what he was heard shouting in a viral video, Herzfeld told Fox News Digital that it gives D.C. Jews "even more reason to be scared.""So, nobody's talking about taking away the rights to free speech. Everybody has the right to speak in a way that's part of society, in a way that does not endanger and threaten people. And now we know that those people who were at the at these rallies, which were being done in a frenzy, a threatening, intimidating manner, there's a reason why people are scared, because some people who associate with them are violent, and this person who went and killed, murdered.""On the streets of D.C. to people who supported Israel, this person was associated with that group. He shouted free Palestine. And so now we have even more reason to be scared as these free Palestine protesters are giving carte blanche on the street of D.C."In response to a Fox News Digital request for comment, Bowsers office referred to the mayors remarks at a news conference on May 22 following the shooting."We are here to echo what the U.S. attorney has said, that this crime will not be tolerated in our city," Bowser said. She also lamented that D.C. has had "practice standing together as a community to fight antisemitism both in hate speech and hateful acts."U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, who also spoke at the press conference, said she would not tolerate violent crimes such as the deadly shooting in front of the Jewish museum.

ABaylor University football player died early Wednesday morning after police say he was found in a car suffering from multiple gunshot wounds in his Mississippi hometown, which local officials say has seen a recent surge in violent crime.Alex Foster, an 18-year-old defensive lineman, was later identified as the victim of an early morning shooting in Greenville."We are heartbroken by the unexpected loss of Alex Foster, a beloved teammate, friend and a cherished part of the Baylor Family," Vice President and Director of Athletics Mack B. Rhoades, IV and headfootball coach Dave Aranda said in a joint statement released by the school.CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM"Our thoughts and prayers are with Alex's family and all those who loved him. In this time of deep sorrow, we draw strength from our faith and the unwavering love of the Baylor community. Our immediate focus is on supporting Alex's family and his teammates through this devastating loss. Alex's memory will forever be a part of Baylor University."Greenville Police spokeswoman Major Misty Mew told The Associated Press that officers responded to reports of a shooting in a residential/commercial area of the city shortly after midnight. Once on the scene, they located a man suffering from multiple gunshot wounds inside a car. Mew did not name Foster as the victim, but the Washington County Coroners Office later confirmed his identity to the outlet.Foster was transported to an area hospital where he succumbed to his injuries shortly after.EX-PENN STATE FOOTBALL STAR JULIAN FLEMING INJURED, GIRLFRIEND DEAD IN ATV CRASH, POLICE SAYAranda later released a separate statement on X, saying that the Baylor community has been left "devastated" by Fosters passing."Alex was a beloved member of our Baylor Family, and we are devastated by this loss. In his time at Baylor he made a long-lasting impact on all of us in the program. Our hearts are broken, and our prayers are with his family, friends and all those who loved him so deeply."In response to the shooting death, Greenville Mayor Errick D. Simmons spoke out about the recent "surge" of crimes impacting the community."Over the past several weeks, our community has been deeply shaken by a surge in violent crimes, including multiple shootings, a surge in violent crimes, acts of gun violence and senseless killings," he said in a brief video address. Simmons added that after a vote on Wednesday, the city will be implementing a curfew effective immediately from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily "until further notice.""Its to protect the lives and well-being of every Greenville resident."Foster joined Baylor in 2024 as one ofMississippis top-20 prospects and the 69th-ranked defensive lineman in the nation. He did not see any action last season after he redshirted his freshman year.The Associated Press contributed to this report.Follow Fox News Digitalssports coverage on X, and subscribe tothe Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

The terrorist group known as Hamas has long plagued the Gaza Strip but is facing a point of crisis as its influence and support, which was already far from sweeping, continues to drop amid internal pressure to end the war and return the hostages taken during the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks."Hamass current posture reveals a critical inflection point in its grip over the Gaza Strip," Joe Truzman, a senior research analyst and editor atthe Foundation for Defense of Democracies "Long War Journal" and an expert on Palestinian terrorist groups, told Fox News Digital."By opposing the new aid distribution mechanism, one that is coordinated by the U.S. and Israel, Hamas is signaling that its primary concern is not the well-being of Palestinians but the preservation of its authority."Despite the monthslong aid blockade on the Gaza Strip by Israel and the images of starvation, Hamas this week threatened any Palestinian civilians who accept food aid for their families and warned they "will pay the price, and we will take the necessary measures."HAMAS TERROR GROUP REPORTEDLY BUCKLING UNDER FINANCIAL STRAIN AMID ISRAELI MILITARY GAINS AND GROWING UNRESTDespite the threats, Palestinians have flooded the aid sites erected by the U.S.-Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), reportedly resulting in scenes of chaos as desperate civilians overran one distribution location on Tuesday. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said its "troops fired warning shots in the area outside the compound," adding, "Control over the situation was established and the safety of IDF troops was not compromised."The U.N. Human Rights Office claimed some 47 people were injured during the gunfire, while the Hamas-run health ministry said one person was killed and 48 others were wounded, reported the BBC, though Fox News Digital could not independently verify the casualty count.On Wednesday, GHF said in a statement that, contrary to reports, no Palestinians have been questioned or detained while receiving aid. Additionally, GHF said that no Palestinians had been shot or killed while trying to get aid."As we have repeatedly cautioned, there are many parties who wish to see GHF fail. Their goal is to force a return to the status quo, even if it means risking lifesaving aid to the people of Gaza," the GHF said in a statement. "Reports to the contrary originated from Hamas and are inaccurate."Truzman explained that it is in Hamas interest to portray the aid delivery as negatively as possible, and to use the chaos to promote its return to power."Hamas had significant influence over aid flows, which it used not only for governance but also as leverage to reinforce loyalty, reward patronage networks, and maintain internal control," the expert explained. "The erosion of this influence poses both a symbolic and operational threat to the group."With Hamas becoming sidelined from the aid process, the group is facing a legitimacy crisis," Truzman added.Despite the chaotic scenes that arose as aid finally returned to Gaza, the GHF said Tuesday that it had distributed about 8,000 food boxes totaling 462,000 meals so far.On Wednesday, eight trucks worth of aid were delivered, which equates to some 378,262 meals."Operations will continue to scale up tomorrow," the GHF confirmed.One Gazan told the Center for Peace Communications that the failure of Hamas, which serves as the local government, to secure affordable and accessible food has driven civilians to the American distribution site."In fact, they were good to us," he said. "They were handing out rations cards and started to tell us to take them. Unlike those ruling Gaza who don't do anything for us."We, as a people, are telling you that we need anyone, anyone who can provide us with these necessities," he added. "Otherwise, no one would be going to the American distribution point. If Hamas is listening to us, get off the people's backs."The people are dying," the man added.ISRAELI AMBASSADOR SLAMS UN'S 'MAFIA-LIKE' TACTICS AGAINST US-BACKED GAZA FOUNDATIONIn recent months, civilian populations have not only been turning to external actors for relief where possible, they have increasingly called on Hamas to return the hostages, stop the war and even leave the Gaza Strip."This shift undermines Hamass image as the authority in Gaza and exposes its weakened state," Truzman said."However, any assumption that Hamas might yield under these conditions must be tempered by the nature of its surviving leadership," he warned. "Those who remain at the helm are among the most ideologically entrenched and militarily committed members of the organization."Hamas took over the Gaza Strip in 2007 after it defeated its rival party, Fatah, which is part of thePalestine Liberation Organization.Despite the plurality vote nearly two decades ago, Hamas has struggled to maintain control and stability for years and its support even in the lead up to the 2023 attacks that prompted the largest-ever war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza was reportedly lacking and its leadership growing increasingly unpopular.ISRAEL BLOCKS HUMANITARIAN AID INTO GAZA AFTER HAMAS REJECTS CEASEFIRE EXTENSION PROPOSALIsrael and Egypt have limited the flow of goods into the Gaza Strip for the last two decades, and border crossing restrictions have been heavily enforced since the 1980s. Israel withdrew from Gaza in 2025.However, according to a report by the Wilson Center, only a fraction of the population prior to the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks blamed food shortages on external factors like sanctions, while a third blamed the Hamas-run government for mismanagement, while another quarter of the population blamed inflation.The report also found that nearly half of Palestinian civilians said they had no trust in Hamas' leadership, while roughly a third of the population threw their support behind the group.Support is believed to have dropped in the nearly 600 days that followed the Oct. 7, 2023 terror attacks, and the subsequent devastation brought to the Gaza Strip."If the new aid mechanism succeeds in improving living conditions for Palestinians, surpassing what Hamas has been able to provide during wartime, it is unlikely to reverse the growing public dissatisfaction with the group," Truzman told Fox News Digital. "Even an imperfect but externally managed aid system may further expose Hamass governance failures, particularly its prioritization of power retention over the welfare of the population."While tangible improvements will take time to materialize, the mere perception that life can improve without Hamas may be enough to shift public attitudes further against the group," he added.

Archaeologists recently discovered the purpose of a mysterious 1,500-year-old bucket at one of England's most historic sites and it wasn't pleasant.The National Trust released a statement about the Byzantine Bromeswell bucket, found at Sutton Hoo, in May.The site of two ancient Anglo-Saxon cemeteries, Sutton Hoo has offered a wealth of knowledge about pre-Norman British history since its first excavation in 1938.STRANGE VIKING GRAVE WITH 'CHRISTIAN OVERTONES' DISCOVERED BY PERPLEXED ARCHAEOLOGISTS: 'VERY UNUSUAL'During an excavation last summer, archaeologists unearthed the base of the Bromeswell bucket, which dates back to the 6th century. Different fragments of the bucket were uncovered in past excavations, but this latest discovery gave researchers more to study.With the base in hand, researchers quickly went to work to analyze the artifact with a variety of techniques, including computerized tomography, CT scans and X-rays and they found an answer.In a morbid turn of events, experts learned the bucket was used to hold the cremated remains of an important person, and their grave goods."The cremated human and animal bones uncovered confirm the find was used as a cremation vessel," the National Trust noted.The organization added, "Cremated human bones included parts of a talus (ankle bone) and fragments of a skull vault (the upper part of the skull that protects the brain)."The bucket dates back to the 500s. It's decorated with a hunting scene depicting men armed with swords and shields, as well as dogs and lions painting a vivid picture of life in the past."The latest fragments include feet, paws, the base of shields and even the missing face of one of the men," the statement described.It is believed the bucket came from Antioch in the Byzantine Empire, now located in modern Turkey.The National Trust noted, "Letterforms used within the buckets design suggest it was made in the 6th century, meaning it was already 100 years old when it arrived here at Sutton Hoo."Researchers also found "a mystery object" that turned out to be a double-sided comb made from an antler. Interestingly, the object had not been burned.LATE BRONZE AGE SETTLEMENT DATING BACK 3,000 YEARS UNCOVERED AMID ROAD WORK: 'IMPORTANT DISCOVERY'The National Trust said the presence of the comb suggests the Anglo-Saxons took grooming seriously, as combs have been found in male and female burials before."Slightly less romantically, combs also would have been useful in the control of lice," the statement said. "Although the human bone in the cremation couldnt be sexed, its hoped that ancient DNA from the owner might survive on the comb, and analysis could reveal more about them."National Trust archaeologist Angus Wainwright said that he was "hopeful" future research will uncover new insight into "this very special burial."For more Lifestyle articles, visit foxnews.com/lifestyle"We knew that this bucket would have been a rare and prized possession back in Anglo-Saxon times, but its always been a mystery why it was buried," Wainwrightsaid."Now we know it was used to contain the remains of an important person in the Sutton Hoo community."CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTERAnglo-Saxon expert Helen Geake told the National Trust the puzzle of the Bromeswell bucket has "finally" been solved."Now we know that it is the first of these rare objects ever to have been used in a cremation burial," she said."Its a remarkable mixture a vessel from the southern, classical world containing the remains of a very northern, very Germanic cremation."She also said the find "epitomizes the strangeness" of Sutton Hoo, which has captivated British history enthusiasts for decades."It has ship burials, horse burials, mound burials and now bath-bucket burials," Geake observed."Who knows what else?"

Spring is an exciting season. The weather is getting warmer, flowers are blooming and you can finally spend some much-needed time outdoors. However, for many allergy sufferers, this time of year can be a double-edged sword.The influx of pollen in the air can trigger sneezing, itchy eyes and a host of other uncomfortable symptoms that make enjoying the season a challenge. Pet owners also often find themselves battling another allergen: pet hair.Fortunately, modern technology offers a solution to these seasonal woes. Vacuum cleaners designed specifically for allergy sufferers can significantly reduce the presence of allergens in your home, providing relief and allowing you to breathe easier.8 NATURAL REMEDIES ON SALE THAT CAN HELP COMBAT SPRING ALLERGIESOriginal price: $279.99The Kenmore 400 series vacuum is a lightweight, swivel steering vacuum with a triple HEPA filter system. The two-motor system delivers extra-strong suction strength on any surface, and the wand extends up to 9.5 feet, so you dont miss any nook or cranny. This particular Kenmore vacuum has a bagged system that traps dirt and pet hair, helping to eliminate all allergens.You can find many of these vacuums on Amazon, and they can be delivered to your door in 24 hours if you're anAmazon Prime member.You canjoin or start a 30-day free trialto shop.Original price: $429.99Shark vacuums are popular for a reason, and the Shark PowerDetect proves why. Its an advanced cordless vacuum thats designed to pick up more hair and dirt than other models. You can easily reach edges and corners and trap all allergens on carpet and wood floors. Where most cordless vacuums fail is in their runtime, but the Shark PowerDetect runs up to 70 minutes on a full charge, so you can tackle your whole house.8 THINGS YOU SHOULD HAVE IN YOUR HOME TO BEAT SPRING ALLERGIESCant stand the thought of vacuuming every week? A Roomba Plus 405 is the right option for your needs. Roombas vacuum on their own, and the Roomba Plus 405 also mops your floors as well. A Roomba is especially helpful for households with pets, since it automatically senses when your floors need to be vacuumed, or you can set a daily timer.A Dyson V15 is a dream for anyone who suffers from household allergies. The vacuum adapts to each type of flooring or carpet in your home, boosting the power when needed. The LCD screen shows the total picked-up particles and displays the power mode and runtime left, so you can better control your vacuuming experience.This stick vacuum is extremely lightweight and transitions into a handheld vacuum, ideal for stairs, couches and other harder-to-reach areas. The hair screw tool sucks up long hair and pet hair without getting tangled.12 AIR PURIFIERS TO HELP YOU THROUGH ALLERGY SEASONOriginal price: $199.99The Shark Navigator Lift-Away XL is a powerful, lightweight vacuum that deep cleans carpets while still being gentle on hardwood floors. This budget-friendly Shark vacuum has an anti-allergen seal and HEPA filter that traps 99.9% of dust and other allergens, helping you breathe better. The vacuum is extra-large while still being lightweight, and the lift-away feature makes it easier to reach everything.Original price: $1,369When you want a high-tech vacuum, the Miele Complete C3 fits the bill. Its a bagged vacuum with a lifetime HEPA filter thatll suck up even the smallest dust mites and allergens. Included with the vacuum are all the accessories needed to clean your entire home, including a dusting brush, upholstery nozzle, crevice nozzle and an integrated storage compartment.Mieles Complete C3 comes with a foot switch, so you dont need to constantly bend over to turn the vacuum on and off. Miele is a quiet vacuum that works on all flooring and carpet types.Original price: $199.99A Levoit cordless vacuum is an affordable daily cleaner that provides 50 minutes of power on one charge. Theres an included pet tool that specifically cleans up pet hair and helps you get to hard-to-reach areas. There are three LED lights built in that help you see dust, and the lightweight and flexible handle lets you reach every area of your home.7 HEALTH PRODUCTS TO SUPPORT YOU THROUGH SEASONAL CHANGESOriginal price: $499.99Homeowners with larger homes need a vacuum that can tackle big messes. The Dyson Ball Animal 3 is up to the challenge. 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Instead of relying on bags, you get washable filters, making the Eureka PowerSpeed easy to maintain.