Netanyahu refuses to accept a deal to end the Gaza war, putting the latest truce proposal to the test
TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has raised doubts about a U.S.-backed plan to bring an end to the 8-month-long conflict in Gaza. In an interview with a pro-Netanyahu Israeli TV channel on Sunday, Netanyahu stated that he would only consider a “partial” cease-fire agreement that does not bring the war to a close. These remarks, which caused an outcry among families of hostages held by Hamas, did not represent a significant departure from his previous statements on the conditions for a deal. However, they come at a critical juncture and could hinder the efforts of mediators working to resolve the conflict.
Hot temperatures impact millions across the U.S. as flooding hits the Midwest
Millions of Americans experienced another scorching day, while parts of the Midwest faced evacuations due to flooding, including a town in Iowa where the water-level gauge was submerged. In South Dakota, one person was killed in the floods, according to the governor. Public officials across the country issued warnings about the dangers of extreme heat and humidity, from the mid-Atlantic to Maine, the Great Lakes region, and all the way to California. In Oklahoma, the heat index was expected to reach 107 degrees on Sunday, with the National Weather Service issuing alerts for potential tornadoes in the Northeast later that day.
Gunmen attack police officers and civilians in Russia’s Dagestan region, resulting in multiple casualties
MOSCOW (AP) — Russian authorities reported the deaths of over 15 police officers and several civilians, including an Orthodox priest, in a violent attack by armed militants in the southern republic of Dagestan. The gunmen targeted two Orthodox churches, a synagogue, and a police post in two cities on Sunday. Governor Sergei Melikov confirmed the casualties in a video statement early Monday, while Russia’s National Anti-Terrorist Committee labeled the attacks in the predominantly Muslim region with a history of armed militancy as acts of terrorism. Governor Melikov stated that six “bandits” were eliminated, and declared Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday as days of mourning in the region.
‘Hamster’ crypto craze sweeps Iran, highlighting economic challenges ahead of presidential election
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — In Tehran, cab drivers and bikers are engrossed in a mobile phone app called “Hamster Kombat,” believing it could make them wealthy. This trend underscores the economic struggles facing Iran ahead of the upcoming presidential election to replace the late President Ebrahim Raisi. The country continues to grapple with Western sanctions, high inflation, and a lack of employment opportunities. Iranians, inspired by the allure of bitcoin, are now turning to this app in hopes of a better future.
Biden and Trump campaign in an Atlanta suburb to win over skeptical Georgia voters
FAYETTEVILLE, Ga. (AP) — Georgia, where the 2020 election yielded the narrowest margin between Democrat Joe Biden and Republican Donald Trump, will host the first general election debate between the two candidates in their rematch. Trump’s efforts to challenge Biden’s victory revolved around Georgia, making it a crucial battleground for both candidates. The upcoming election will test their ability to rally supporters despite their weaknesses. Many voters express disillusionment with the Trump-Biden rivalry, with some Republicans hesitant to support Trump and Biden needing to secure the same coalition that secured his victory.
Prosecutors seek to prevent Trump from making inflammatory comments in classified documents case
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (AP) — As prosecutors pursue the case involving classified documents against Donald Trump, they are seeking to restrict the former president from making public comments that could endanger FBI agents involved in the case. Special counsel Jack Smith’s team argues that Trump’s false claims about the FBI agents could put their lives at risk, necessitating these restrictions. Trump’s legal team contends that any gag order would unjustly silence him during a heated presidential campaign where he is the presumptive Republican nominee.
New mom killed in Arkansas grocery store shooting while cherishing her daughter’s growth
A new mother, Callie Weems, who was enjoying her daughter’s milestones, was among the victims of a fatal shooting at an Arkansas grocery store. Weems, who had a 10-month-old daughter, was shot and killed in Fordyce. Fifteen others were wounded, including the alleged gunman. This incident marks another tragic mass shooting at a grocery store, following similar events in Buffalo, New York, and Boulder, Colorado.
Fire at lithium battery factory in South Korea claims 9 lives, with 15 others missing
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — A fire at a lithium battery factory near Seoul, South Korea, has resulted in at least nine deaths, with four injuries and 15 individuals reported missing. The majority of the missing individuals are foreign nationals, including Chinese citizens. The cause of the fire remains unknown, although reports indicate that much of the blaze has been extinguished at the factory in Hwaseong city.
Visitors in Israel include tours of Hamas’ destruction in the south
KIBBUTZ NIR OZ, Israel (AP) — Since the October 7th attack by Hamas, a new form of tourism has emerged in Israel. Celebrities, politicians, and influencers now include a visit to the devastated southern region as part of their trips. For some visitors, standing in the affected areas helps them grasp the magnitude of the loss of life. While residents recognize the importance of outsiders witnessing the aftermath, they also hope for the construction of memorials outside their communities. One resident remarked, “Our cemetery is full. Isn’t that memorial enough?”
Japanese emperor’s visit to the U.K. aims to strengthen ties, starting at the Thames Barrier
LONDON (AP) — Before attending official events in the U.K., Japanese Emperor Naruhito will visit the Thames Barrier, a site that holds special significance for him. While the flood control gates might not be a typical tourist attraction, the emperor has a personal connection to the River Thames from studying commerce there as a graduate student at the University of Oxford 40 years ago.
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