Reformist Pezeshkian wins Iran’s presidential runoff election, besting hard-liner Jalili
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian has emerged victorious in Iran’s presidential runoff election, defeating hard-liner Saeed Jalili. Pezeshkian has pledged to engage with the West and relax enforcement of the country’s mandatory headscarf law following years of sanctions and protests against the Islamic Republic. He has also stated that there will be no drastic changes to Iran’s Shiite theocracy, with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei serving as the final authority on all state matters. However, Pezeshkian’s moderate goals will face challenges from a government still predominantly controlled by hard-liners, among other obstacles. Official vote counts released on Saturday show Pezeshkian as the winner with 16.3 million votes compared to Jalili’s 13.5 million in Friday’s election.
Biden rejects age concerns in interview as he works to salvage reelection campaign
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — President Joe Biden has used a much-anticipated television interview to dismiss calls for an independent medical evaluation to prove his fitness for another term in office. He attributed his poor debate performance to a “bad episode” and denied any signs of serious health conditions. Biden is fighting to revive his struggling reelection bid. Despite being 81 years old, the president managed to go through a 22-minute interview with ABC’s George Stephanopoulos without major errors that could harm his chances. However, doubts persist regarding his age, fitness for the presidency, and ability to defeat Donald Trump in November.
Republicans shift focus to Harris amidst calls to replace Biden on Democratic ticket
NEW YORK (AP) — What was once considered a far-right conspiracy theory has gained traction as speculation grows over the possibility of a change in the Democratic ticket. Following Biden’s lackluster debate performance, there are increasing calls for him to step aside in favor of a candidate with a better chance of defeating Trump in the upcoming election. Attacks on Biden have often targeted Vice President Kamala Harris, with undertones of racism and misogyny. Republicans, including Trump, appear to be accelerating their criticism in response to the shifting political landscape.
A NATO summit and improving EU relations top priorities for new UK leader Keir Starmer
LONDON (AP) — Newly elected British Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces immediate challenges as he takes office. After a grueling six-week election campaign, the center-left leader must quickly form his government, address domestic issues, and reshape the UK’s foreign relations. Starmer aims to enhance Britain’s global role after strained ties with Europe due to Brexit. His first tasks include attending a NATO summit in Washington and hosting a meeting of European leaders later this month to discuss key issues such as Ukraine.
Putin downplays need for nuclear weapons in Ukraine conflict, but keeps options open
Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent a clear message to NATO, warning against excessive military support for Ukraine that could escalate into a nuclear conflict. Despite asserting that he does not require nuclear weapons to achieve his objectives, Putin stresses that the possibility of their use cannot be ruled out. He reaffirms Russia’s nuclear doctrine, emphasizing the readiness to use such weapons if the country’s sovereignty is threatened. As NATO strengthens support for Ukraine, Putin’s statements suggest a dangerous escalation in the ongoing conflict.
Beryl regains strength in Gulf of Mexico, prompting Texas preparations
TULUM, Mexico (AP) — Beryl has returned to the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, where it is expected to intensify after weakening to a tropical storm while crossing Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. The US National Hurricane Center predicts Beryl will become a hurricane again and move towards northeastern Mexico and the Texas coast. Coastal officials have advised residents to prepare for potential storm surge flooding, heavy rain, and strong winds. Several Texas cities have issued voluntary evacuation orders for low-lying areas prone to flooding and urged tourists to secure their recreational vehicles amidst the approaching storm.
Record-breaking heat wave scorches US West and beyond, with more extreme conditions forecast
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — A historic heat wave is shattering records across the Western US, from the Pacific Northwest to Arizona, with oppressive heat and humidity prevailing in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. Death Valley in California set a new record high temperature of 127 degrees, while Phoenix recorded a daily high of 118 degrees, with forecasts expecting temperatures to exceed 115 degrees for several days. Needles, California, also experienced a record temperature of 122 degrees. The extreme heat poses significant challenges and health risks as the scorching conditions persist.
Macron’s political journey from newcomer to embattled leader examined
PARIS (AP) — French President Emmanuel Macron faces potential political setbacks in crucial parliamentary elections, which could impact the country’s governance, his international standing, and his overall legacy. As France prepares to host the Paris Olympics, Macron’s leadership is under scrutiny, especially with the likelihood of not having a parliamentary majority and facing opposition within the government. With constitutional limitations preventing him from seeking a third consecutive term in 2027, Macron, aged 46, must navigate a challenging political landscape to avoid being marginalized.
Gaza soccer stadium transformed into shelter for displaced Palestinians
GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip (AP) — Thousands of displaced Palestinians in northern Gaza have sought refuge in a major soccer arena, as they struggle to survive in the aftermath of Israel’s recent offensive. Families residing in Yarmouk Sports Stadium are facing food and water shortages, while attempting to evade further attacks in eastern Gaza City. Many have lost their homes and possess little to return to, with makeshift shelters set up beneath the stadium’s grandstand. The situation has instilled fear in both children and adults, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region.
Mount Everest’s highest camp marred by frozen garbage, cleanup efforts to span years
KATHMANDU, Nepal (AP) — As mountaineers continue to scale Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak remains littered with trash and remains of climbers. The highest camp at South Col is overwhelmed with garbage that will require extensive cleanup efforts over the coming years. Sherpas leading cleanup teams have removed tons of trash and multiple bodies frozen on the mountain, estimating that as much as 50-60 tons of garbage still remain at the site. The environmental impact of mountaineering continues to be a significant challenge in preserving the natural beauty of Everest.
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