Israel is considering Hamas’ latest response to the Gaza cease-fire proposal as diplomatic efforts are renewed
TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — The Israeli Cabinet is scheduled to meet to discuss Hamas’ response to a U.S.-backed proposal for a phased cease-fire in Gaza. Diplomatic efforts to end the nine-month war have resumed after a break of several weeks. The United States has garnered worldwide support for a plan that involves releasing all militant-held hostages in exchange for a lasting truce and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Last month, Hamas suggested some “amendments” to the proposal. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed that the original proposal was Israeli but has expressed skepticism about its ability to end the war, a key demand for Hamas. Hamas sent another response this week, which the Israeli Cabinet is expected to discuss on Thursday.
Hezbollah launches over 200 rockets into Israel following the killing of a senior commander
BEIRUT (AP) — The Lebanese Hezbollah group has fired over 200 rockets at several military bases in Israel in retaliation for a strike that resulted in the death of one of its senior commanders. The attack by the Iran-backed militant group on Thursday was one of the largest in the ongoing conflict along the Lebanon-Israel border, which has escalated in recent weeks. The Israeli military has not yet commented on the attack. It acknowledged on Wednesday that it had killed Mohammad Naameh Nasser, who led one of Hezbollah’s regional divisions in southern Lebanon, a day earlier. Following Nasser’s death, Hezbollah launched numerous rockets with heavy warheads into northern Israel and the occupied Syrian Golan Heights, with more rockets launched on Thursday.
Biden at 81: Sharp and focused at times, but also confused and forgetful
WASHINGTON (AP) — In various settings, including the Oval Office, Air Force One, and meetings around the world, President Joe Biden is described by many as both sharp and focused. However, he also has moments, particularly later in the day, when his thoughts seem disorganized and he struggles with clarity, especially on certain foreign policy matters. At 81 years old, it’s natural that he may not be as sharp as he once was. These moments have gained attention following Biden’s lackluster debate performance.
FACT FOCUS: Trump’s claim of “total exoneration” after a presidential immunity ruling is misleading
Former President Donald Trump has claimed “total exoneration” after the Supreme Court ruled that presidents have broad immunity for their actions while in office. However, the ruling did not actually exonerate him and upheld the principle that there is no immunity for personal acts. It did, however, limit his liability in an election interference case by establishing absolute immunity for core constitutional duties. The ruling represents a significant victory for Trump, whose legal strategy has aimed to delay court proceedings until after the 2024 election.
Labour optimistic, Conservatives downhearted as UK voters deliver their verdict on election day
LONDON (AP) — British voters are casting their ballots in a parliamentary election that is widely expected to bring the opposition Labour Party to power. A weary electorate is judging Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s Conservative Party, which has been in power since 2010. Polls have opened at 7 a.m. in 40,000 polling stations across various locations, including church halls, a laundromat, and a crematorium. Hundreds of communities are engaged in tight contests where immediate concerns about the economy, infrastructure, and the National Health Service outweigh traditional party loyalties.
Russian-linked cyber campaigns target France with focus on elections and Olympics
PARIS (AP) — Cybersecurity experts and French officials have noted an increasing number of Russian disinformation campaigns targeting France, particularly during legislative elections and the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris. More than a dozen reports in the past year highlight Russia’s efforts to undermine France and President Emmanuel Macron, a vocal supporter of Ukraine in Europe. Tactics include false posts posing as legitimate French media, Star of David graffiti in Paris, and caskets left at the Eiffel Tower.
Ukraine’s army retreats as Russia advances on strategically significant town
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Ukraine’s military has pulled back from a neighborhood in the outskirts of Chasiv Yar, a vital town in the eastern Donetsk region that has been heavily damaged during Russia’s months-long assault. Chasiv Yar is located west of Bakhmut, which Russia captured last year after a lengthy battle. Russian forces have been focused on seizing Chasiv Yar due to its strategic location and elevated position. A fall of Chasiv Yar would jeopardize nearby cities, compromise Ukrainian supply routes, and bring Russia closer to its goal of taking control of the entire Donetsk region.
Hurricane Beryl heads toward Mexico after causing devastation in Jamaica and the eastern Caribbean
PLAYA DEL CARMEN, Mexico (AP) — Hurricane Beryl has caused extensive damage in Jamaica, Barbados, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, destroying or damaging 95% of homes on two islands. The storm, once a Category 5 hurricane, has weakened slightly but remains powerful as it heads towards the Cayman Islands and Mexico’s Caribbean coast. Mexico’s coastal regions are preparing for the storm, with shelters set up, coastal communities evacuated, and protective measures in place.
Comparisons drawn between Biden’s age and fitness and Reagan’s 1984 campaign
In 1984, President Ronald Reagan famously addressed questions about his age with a witty remark that turned around his campaign following a lackluster debate performance to win a second term in a landslide victory. Biden, now 81, faces similar questions about his age and fitness after a subpar debate against his opponent, Republican Donald Trump. Reagan’s response to the age question remains iconic: “I will not make age an issue of this campaign. I am not going to exploit for political purposes my opponent’s youth and inexperience.” Biden is now hoping to recover from his poor debate showing.
Americans prepare for Fourth of July celebrations with parades, cookouts, and fireworks
Fourth of July celebrations in the United States are expected to be grand this year, with record travel numbers, cookouts, parades, and fireworks displays. Unique events, such as lobster boat races in Down East, Maine, and a hot dog eating contest in Coney Island, New York, are planned across the country. In Philadelphia, descendants of the signers of the Declaration of Independence will ring the Liberty Bell to mark the occasion.
Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
