Trump’s VP shortlist and the reasons each contender may be chosen or overlooked
Donald Trump has narrowed down his vice presidential shortlist to a few candidates as he gears up to announce his pick before the Republican National Convention next month. He has stated that he has already made his decision and that the chosen person will be present at the first debate of the general election campaign with Joe Biden. Some of the names rumored to be on the shortlist include North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Sens. JD Vance of Ohio, Marco Rubio of Florida, and Tim Scott of South Carolina, former Trump Cabinet member Ben Carson, and Reps. Elise Stefanik of New York and Byron Donalds of Florida.
Death toll at Hajj pilgrimage reaches 1,300 amid high temperatures
Over 1,300 people lost their lives during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia due to soaring temperatures at Islamic holy sites. The Saudi Health Minister mentioned that a majority of the fatalities were unauthorized pilgrims who walked long distances in extreme heat. The deceased included individuals from Egypt, Indonesia, India, Jordan, Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria, Malaysia, and two from the United States.
Heatwave affects millions in the US, while floods inundate the Midwest
Millions of Americans endured another sweltering day as floodwaters prompted evacuations in parts of the Midwest, such as a town in Iowa where the water-level gauge was submerged. Public officials across various regions cautioned residents about the risks of excessive heat and humidity, with Oklahoma expecting a heat index of 107 degrees. The National Weather Service warned of potential tornadoes in the Northeast.
Netanyahu alleges US is withholding arms shipments, despite Washington’s denial
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused the United States of significantly reducing weapons deliveries for Israel’s efforts in Gaza. His claims, made to the Cabinet, reiterated previous accusations despite denials from the Biden administration. The dispute underscores the strained relationship between Israel and the US during the Gaza conflict.
FBI investigates suspects in New Mexico wildfires that caused fatalities and widespread damage
Residents of Ruidoso will be allowed to return home as federal authorities seek to prosecute the individuals responsible for starting the South Fork Fire and Salt Fire, which resulted in two deaths and destruction of hundreds of buildings. The FBI is offering a reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrators, indicating human involvement in the fires.
Democrats decide whether to attend Netanyahu’s Congress address amid tensions
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to address Congress, prompting Democrats to deliberate on attending the speech. While some Democrats support Israel, others are critical of its military operations, leading to divisions among lawmakers regarding attendance at the upcoming address.
Russia’s new pact with North Korea escalates tensions with the West over Ukraine
President Vladimir Putin’s agreement with North Korea signals a willingness to challenge Western interests amid the Ukraine conflict. The pact includes mutual military assistance and potential arms shipments to North Korea, which could destabilize the Korean Peninsula and provoke broader consequences. Putin’s actions are seen as a direct response to NATO’s support for Ukraine.
Ukrainian attacks in Russia and Crimea result in casualties, while bombing continues in Kharkiv
Russian authorities reported casualties from Ukrainian drone and missile attacks, as Russia intensified aerial bombing in Kharkiv, resulting in fatalities. The ongoing conflict underscores the escalating violence between the two countries.
New mom among victims in Arkansas grocery store shooting
A new mom, enjoying motherhood, was among those killed in a shooting at an Arkansas grocery store. Callie Weems, with a 10-month-old daughter, was one of the victims, highlighting the tragic impact of the incident. The shooting left multiple casualties and marks another instance of gun violence in public spaces.
Harris emphasizes the significance of reproductive rights in the upcoming election
Vice President Kamala Harris stresses the importance of reproductive health rights in the upcoming presidential election, contrasting the positions of President Biden and former President Trump on the issue. The Biden campaign aims to highlight the Supreme Court’s decision regarding abortion rights and its implications for the election.
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