Netanyahu refuses to accept a deal that would end the Gaza war, casting doubt on the latest truce proposal
TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — The potential success of a U.S.-backed plan to resolve the 8-month conflict in Gaza was called into question after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated he would only consider a “partial” cease-fire agreement that does not bring an end to the war. His remarks, given in an interview with a pro-Netanyahu Israeli TV channel on Sunday, caused outrage among families of hostages held by Hamas. While Netanyahu’s comments were not vastly different from his previous statements regarding the terms for a deal, they come at a critical juncture and could present a setback for mediators working towards ending the war.
Could Trump face criminal charges as a former president? The nation awaits a ruling from the Supreme Court
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court is set to face a series of decisions directly related to the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol. In the coming days, the justices are expected to rule on issues such as whether Donald Trump is immune from criminal charges related to his attempts to overturn the 2020 election and whether individuals who stormed the Capitol can be prosecuted for obstructing an official proceeding. Additionally, the court will determine if former Trump adviser Steve Bannon can remain out of prison while appealing his conviction for contempt of Congress.
Sweltering heat persists in the U.S. as flooding affects the Midwest
Millions of Americans endured scorching temperatures over the weekend as heat waves swept across the country, while residents in the Midwest were rescued from floodwaters that led to evacuations. The governor of South Dakota confirmed a death due to flooding, and Iowa’s governor declared a disaster in 21 counties after receiving up to 15 inches of rain over three days. Public officials across various regions cautioned residents about excessive heat and humidity, with forecasters predicting the heat wave to continue into the early part of the week in certain areas.
Youthful gay Latinos see a rise in new HIV cases, prompting calls for targeted funding
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has been working for years to eradicate the nation’s HIV epidemic by allocating substantial funds to states, counties, and U.S. territories with high infection rates. While African Americans still have the highest rates of HIV overall in the U.S., a recent analysis shows that Latinos accounted for the largest share of new HIV diagnoses and infections among gay and bisexual men in 2022 compared to other racial and ethnic groups. Health policy advocates are urging federal authorities to declare a public health emergency to secure additional funds for prevention and treatment.
In a wealthy Atlanta suburb, Biden and Trump vie for support from Georgia voters
FAYETTEVILLE, Ga. (AP) — Georgia, the battleground of the 2020 elections that witnessed the tightest margin in any state between Joe Biden and Donald Trump, is once again the focus of political attention. With Trump’s efforts to overturn Biden’s victory centered in Georgia, the two are set to meet for their first general election debate in the state on Thursday. The upcoming election will test their ability to rally support despite existing challenges. Some voters express disillusionment with the rematch, with former Trump supporters hesitant to vote for him again and Biden needing to maintain his coalition, particularly among Black and young voters.
‘Hamster’ cryptocurrency craze sweeps Iran, underscoring economic challenges ahead of elections
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — In Tehran, a new phenomenon known as the “Hamster Kombat” app has taken hold, with residents hoping to strike it rich. This surge in interest underscores the economic difficulties facing Iran ahead of the presidential election to replace the late President Ebrahim Raisi. The country continues to grapple with Western sanctions, high inflation, and a lack of job opportunities. Inspired by the success stories of bitcoin, Iranians are flocking to this app in the hopes of securing a better financial future.
Dagestan observes a day of mourning after attacks claim 19 lives
MOSCOW (AP) — Following a series of coordinated attacks by Islamic militants in Dagestan that left 19 people dead, the southern Russian region has declared the first of three days of mourning. Most of the victims were law enforcement officers, and the attacks also targeted religious sites in two cities. Blamed on Islamic extremists, the violence represents the deadliest incident in Russia since March when gunmen carried out a mass shooting at a concert near Moscow. The culprits of the recent attacks in Dagestan have not been identified, but all five assailants were reportedly killed.
Fire at lithium battery factory in South Korea claims 22 lives, mostly Chinese workers
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — A fire that likely originated from exploding lithium batteries has resulted in the death of 22 individuals, the majority of whom were Chinese migrant workers, at a manufacturing plant near Seoul, South Korea. The incident occurred while workers were inspecting and packaging batteries on the second floor of the factory. An investigation is currently underway, and the victims include 18 Chinese nationals, two South Koreans, and one individual from Laos. The presence of a significant ethnic Korean population from China in the workforce underscores the tragic nature of the event.
Visitors to Israel now include visits to Hamas’ devastation in the southern region
KIBBUTZ NIR OZ, Israel (AP) — Following the October 7 attack by Hamas, a new trend in tourism has emerged in Israel. Celebrities, politicians, influencers, and others are making a point to visit the heavily impacted area in the south, which bore the brunt of the assault. For many visitors, witnessing the destruction firsthand is a sobering experience that sheds light on the magnitude of loss. While some residents recognize the significance of outsiders coming to observe, others are looking towards a future where memorials outside their communities will stand in remembrance of the events. As one resident puts it, “Our cemetery is full. Isn’t that memorial enough?”
Japanese emperor to strengthen ties with UK through state visit
LONDON (AP) — Emperor Naruhito of Japan is embarking on a state visit to the U.K., where he plans to engage in various activities to bolster relations between the two countries. Prior to attending official events and tours, including a banquet hosted by King Charles III and visits to Westminster Abbey and research institutes, the emperor will begin his trip by visiting the Thames Barrier. The connection between the emperor and the River Thames dates back to his time as a graduate student at the University of Oxford, where he studied the river’s historical significance in commerce.
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