5 things to know for Nov. 16: Biden-Xi, Israel, Government shutdown, Immigration, SpaceX

5 Things to Know for Nov. 16: Biden-Xi, Israel, Government Shutdown, Immigration, SpaceX Welcome to CNN's 5 Things. This daily briefing provides you with the top news stories you need to know every morning. Here are today's top headlines: 1. Biden and Xi discuss major issues, including Taiwan tensions US President Joe Biden held a virtual meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday to address a range of pressing issues. Tensions relating to Taiwan were a key point of discussion, with Biden affirming the United States' commitment to Taiwan. The two leaders also tackled climate change, the pandemic, and economic ties between the nations. The meeting comes as China continues its military exercises around Taiwan, stoking concerns about a potential conflict in the region. 2. Israel to close its borders to curb spread of Omicron variant Israel has taken the proactive step of closing its borders to foreign nationals in an effort to prevent the spread of the Omicron variant of COVID-19. The measures also include limiting the number of incoming Israelis and launching a nationwide booster shot campaign. These stringent measures aim to protect the country's population as scientists work to gather more information on the new variant. 3. US government shutdown looms as funding deadline approaches Democratic and Republican lawmakers are facing a critical deadline to fund the government and avoid a shutdown. The current funding is set to expire on December 3, and negotiations have hit a roadblock due to disagreements on immigration and other key issues. While both parties agree that a shutdown should be avoided, finding common ground remains a challenge. 4. Biden administration faces criticism over immigration policies President Biden's administration has come under scrutiny for its handling of immigration policies, particularly regarding the treatment of Haitian migrants at the US-Mexico border. Images showing Border Patrol agents on horseback interacting with migrants drew widespread condemnation. The incident has reignited discussions about immigration reform and calls for more humane treatment of migrants. 5. SpaceX successfully launches cargo mission to International Space Station SpaceX, the private aerospace company founded by Elon Musk, sent a cargo spacecraft to the International Space Station (ISS) on Monday. The Dragon spacecraft is carrying essential supplies, experiments, and holiday treats for the astronauts on board. This successful launch marks another milestone for SpaceX and its ongoing partnership with NASA. And now for the "5 Things to Catch Up On" segment: - The newly discovered Omicron variant has raised concerns worldwide. Scientists are racing to gather more data on its potential impact and transmissibility. Countries around the globe are implementing measures to prevent its spread. - Protests continue in Sudan following the military coup that ousted the transitional government. Demonstrators are demanding the return to civilian rule, and the situation remains tense. - The trial of British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell, who is accused of aiding Jeffrey Epstein's sexual abuse, is set to begin on Monday. The trial will shed light on Maxwell's alleged involvement in Epstein's crimes. - The COP26 climate summit in Glasgow, Scotland, concluded with some progress but also disappointment. While some key agreements were reached, there is still a need for more ambitious action to address the climate crisis. - The jury selection process begins in the trial of three men charged in connection with the killing of Ahmaud Arbery, a Black jogger, in Georgia last year. The case sparked national outrage and raised questions about racial bias in the criminal justice system. That's all for today's briefing. Stay informed with CNN's 5 Things, and have a great day.