Netanyahu rejects deal to end war in Gaza, raising doubts about truce proposal
TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that he will only agree to a “partial” cease-fire deal that does not bring an end to the ongoing war in Gaza. His remarks, made in an interview with a pro-Netanyahu Israeli TV channel on Sunday, have caused concern among families of hostages held by Hamas. While Netanyahu’s comments are consistent with his previous stance on the matter, they come at a critical juncture and could hinder mediation efforts to halt the conflict.
Experts warn of famine risk in Gaza despite increased aid
KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip (AP) — A draft report from a leading international hunger crisis authority suggests that while aid has improved conditions in northern Gaza, the region as a whole remains at a “high risk” of famine following Israel’s offensive in Rafah. The report indicates that a large number of people in Gaza are struggling to access sufficient food, with over 495,000 individuals expected to face severe starvation in the near future. The final version of the report from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification is scheduled for release on Tuesday.
Lawsuit challenges Louisiana law requiring display of Ten Commandments in classrooms
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — Civil liberties groups have filed a lawsuit contesting Louisiana’s new law mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in all public school classrooms. Plaintiffs in the lawsuit, including parents of Louisiana public school students, argue that the law violates the separation of church and state and could marginalize non-Christian students. Proponents of the law maintain that it holds historical significance beyond its religious connotations. According to the law, the Ten Commandments are considered “foundational documents of our state and national government.”
Weekend shootings across the US raise concerns
The first weekend of summer saw a series of mass shootings in American cities, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. Incidents occurred at a party in Alabama, an entertainment district in Ohio, and a grocery store in Arkansas, marking a troubling trend of gun violence in the country. Municipal leaders in affected cities have appealed to state and federal authorities for assistance. In Montgomery, Alabama, a crowded party was targeted resulting in nine individuals being wounded.
Midwestern flooding causes destruction and evacuations
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (AP) — Severe flooding in the Midwestern U.S. has caused the collapse of a railroad bridge and presented challenges to a dam following heavy rainfall. Hundreds of people have been forced to evacuate in Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Minnesota due to the flooding. As more rain is predicted, affected areas face additional hazards with streams not expected to peak until later in the week. Governors of impacted states have reported widespread damage to infrastructure, businesses, and utilities.
Supreme Court to rule on Trump-related cases
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court is set to address several cases stemming from the U.S. Capitol attack on January 6, 2021. These cases include determining if former President Donald Trump is immune from criminal charges related to his attempts to overturn the 2020 election results, as well as deciding on the culpability of individuals who stormed the Capitol. Additionally, the court will rule on whether former Trump advisor Steve Bannon can remain out of prison while appealing his contempt of Congress conviction.
Rise in new HIV cases among young gay Latinos prompts calls for targeted funding
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Latino gay and bisexual men accounted for a significant portion of new HIV diagnoses in 2022, prompting calls for increased funding to address the issue. While African Americans continue to have high HIV rates nationwide, Latinos have seen a surge in new infections. Health advocates emphasize the need for targeted prevention and treatment efforts to address disparities in HIV diagnoses among Latino communities.
Car dealerships impacted by cyberattacks resort to traditional methods
NEW YORK (AP) — Car dealerships in North America are facing disruptions due to cyberattacks targeting software provider CDK Global. The attacks have led to operational challenges, including delays in serving customers and the manual processing of vehicle orders. CDK anticipates that it will take several days to fully restore service. In response, some automotive retailers, like Group 1 Automotive Inc., have implemented alternative processes to manage sales.
Texas Rangers criticized for lack of Pride Night event
ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — The Texas Rangers have faced criticism for being the only Major League Baseball team without a Pride Night event. LGBTQ+ advocates express frustration with the team’s failure to participate in the annual Pride Month celebration. Calls for change within the organization have been made, with hopes that new ownership could bring about a shift in the Rangers’ approach to diversity and inclusion.
Potential for all-out war between Israel and Hezbollah raises international concerns
BEIRUT (AP) — Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have escalated, prompting fears of a full-scale conflict. Efforts to de-escalate the situation have so far proven unsuccessful, leading to casualties on both sides. The international community is urging for a diplomatic resolution to prevent a regional conflict that could involve other nations as well. A war between Lebanon and Israel could have far-reaching consequences, including a broader conflict between the United States and Iran.
Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.