Biden is entering a crucial phase of his campaign for re-election
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden is facing a pivotal moment in his bid to save his re-election campaign. In a radio interview aired on Thursday, he emphasized that the outcome of the election against Donald Trump holds significance beyond his own political future, impacting the country’s economy and democracy. With Democratic support waning following his dismal debate performance against Trump last week, there is a sense that Biden has limited time to prove his competence before discussions about potential replacements become more overt.
Israel gives green light to construction of nearly 5,300 new homes in West Bank settlements
JERUSALEM (AP) — An Israeli monitoring group has reported that the government has approved plans for the construction of approximately 5,300 new homes in settlements in the occupied West Bank. This move is part of Israel’s efforts to strengthen its control over the West Bank and hinder the establishment of a Palestinian state. The government’s Higher Planning Council has given the go-ahead for 5,295 homes in multiple settlements. Additionally, talks about a cease-fire in Gaza are resuming, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sending negotiators to engage in negotiations following Hamas’ latest response to a proposed deal backed by the U.S.
Labour optimistic and Conservatives disheartened as UK voters cast their ballots on election day
LONDON (AP) — British voters are participating in a parliamentary election expected to bring the Labour Party to power as they pass judgment on the Conservative Party led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. With polls open in numerous locations, voters are prioritizing concerns about the economy, infrastructure, and healthcare over traditional party loyalties. Tight contests are unfolding in many areas as voters make their choices based on immediate issues affecting their communities.
Americans set to enjoy Fourth of July festivities with parades, cookouts, and fireworks
The Fourth of July celebrations in the U.S. are expected to draw large crowds, with record-breaking travel numbers as people gather for various events such as cookouts, parades, and fireworks displays. Unique celebrations are planned across the country, including lobster boat races in Maine, historic events in Philadelphia, and a hot dog eating contest in Coney Island, New York.
Millions endure extreme heat wave over Fourth of July weekend
An unprecedented heat wave is affecting around 134 million people in the U.S., prompting warnings about dangerous temperatures as fires rage in California. People in various regions, including the West Coast and southern Plains, are advised to stay hydrated and seek shelter from the scorching weather.
Hurricane Beryl poses threat to Mexico after causing devastation in Jamaica and Caribbean
TULUM, Mexico (AP) — Hurricane Beryl has caused widespread destruction in several Caribbean islands and is now heading towards Mexico’s Caribbean coast. The hurricane, which has claimed at least nine lives, is downgraded to a Category 3 storm but still poses a significant threat. Residents and authorities in Mexico are preparing for the storm’s impact, taking preventive measures to protect vulnerable areas.
Indian mother gives birth on boat amid floods in Brahmaputra River
MORIGAON, India (AP) — Jahanara Khatoon delivered her baby on a boat during a perilous journey through flooded waters in the Brahmaputra River. The increased rainfall attributed to climate change has made living near the river even more dangerous for those in Assam state, one of the areas most vulnerable to climate change globally. The mother and her newborn daughter sought refuge on the boat after their home on an island in the river was inundated by floodwaters.
U.S. citizen Woodland sentenced to 12.5 years in Russian prison for drug-related charges
MOSCOW (AP) — Robert Woodland, a Russia-born U.S. citizen, has been convicted of drug-related offenses in Moscow and sentenced to 12 1/2 years in a maximum security prison. Woodland, who also holds Russian citizenship, was found guilty of attempting to traffic illegal drugs. His lawyers plan to appeal the ruling, arguing that his guilt has not been proven.
World swimming federation confirms U.S. investigation into Chinese swimmers’ doping tests
GENEVA (AP) — The international swimming federation has confirmed that its executive director will testify as a witness in a U.S. criminal investigation into Chinese swimmers who tested positive for banned substances in 2021. The swimmers were allowed to compete at the Tokyo Olympics despite failing drug tests, prompting a federal investigation into potential doping conspiracies.
German city renamed “Swiftkirchen” in honor of Taylor Swift’s upcoming concerts
BERLIN (AP) — In anticipation of Taylor Swift’s upcoming concerts in Germany, the city of Gelsenkirchen has temporarily renamed itself “Swiftkirchen” to welcome the artist and her fans. Thousands of Swifties are expected to attend the concerts, and the city unveiled a new sign with the name “Swiftkirchen” in honor of the occasion.
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