Allegations of an Islamic takeover of UK schools proved less sensational than first reported, but a new report reveals there is cause for alarm. And it looks like the NYT is coming around to the idea that this investigation wasn’t just motivated by Islamophobia or a partisan witch hunt.

In a court-ordered vote, Detroit’s public sector retirees have accepted the cuts inflicted by the city’s bankruptcy plan. Ultimately, this is just one part of the damage done by the city’s corrupt, one-party political machine.

The IRS scandal has been clouded by partisan hype, but reports that Lois Lerner’s hard drive might not have been dead after all suggest that a tipping point has been reached.

The Assad regime is gearing up for an ISIS attack on Aleppo, Syria’s largest city. The showdown could gain ISIS fame, followers, and a strategic stronghold if it wins—or destroy the group if it loses.

In northeast Nigeria, Boko Haram is conquering territory, most recently the strategically significant town of Damboa. The group has killed more than 2,000 people since the year began, and sadly, that grim figure is likely to increase.

The FAA has put a temporary ban on flights to Ben-Gurion Airport, after a rocket launched from Gaza landed in a nearby town. This is the first military consequence of Hamas rocket attacks for Israel, and could strengthen Israel’s resolve to shut down Hamas, despite international pressure.

Libya’s Foreign Minister entreats the U.N. Security Council for non-military aid, warning that the country is dangerously close to becoming a “failed state.”

It’s Thursday, which means its time for a few quick links to odd and amazing tales. Here are our favorites from the week.

The Ebola death toll has climbed in Sierra Leone and Liberia, and now surpasses 600. Panic is spreading, both within these countries and their neighbors.

A California judge expresses skepticism about Calpers’ claim that it can fine Stockton if the city reduces its pension contributions. The fight isn’t over yet, but this can’t be a good sign for the pension fund.