Reformist Pezeshkian wins Iran’s presidential runoff election, beating hard-liner Jalili
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian has emerged as the winner of Iran’s presidential runoff election, defeating hard-liner Saeed Jalili. Pezeshkian has pledged to improve relations with the West and relax enforcement of the country’s mandatory headscarf law following years of sanctions and protests challenging the Islamic Republic. He also emphasized that there would be no drastic changes to Iran’s Shiite theocracy, with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei retaining the final say in state matters. However, Pezeshkian’s agenda will face obstacles from the predominantly hard-line Iranian government, among other hurdles. According to official reports released on Saturday, Pezeshkian secured 16.3 million votes compared to Jalili’s 13.5 million in Friday’s election.
Biden disregards concerns about his age in interview as he strives to salvage reelection campaign
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — President Joe Biden addressed doubts about his fitness for serving another term in office during a highly anticipated TV interview, rejecting calls for an independent medical evaluation. He attributed his lackluster debate performance to a “bad episode” and assured that there were no indications of any serious health condition. Biden is fighting to revive his imperiled reelection bid. The 81-year-old president managed to navigate through his 22-minute interview with ABC’s George Stephanopoulos without major slip-ups that could further damage his candidacy. Nevertheless, doubts regarding his age and capability for four more years in office, as well as his ability to defeat Donald Trump in the upcoming election, remain unresolved.
Republicans shift focus to Harris amidst talks of replacing Biden on Democratic ticket gaining momentum
NEW YORK (AP) — The Republican narrative of a vote for President Joe Biden equating to a vote for Vice President Kamala Harris, once dismissed as a far-right conspiracy, has gained traction amid mounting calls for Biden to step down in favor of a more viable candidate against Donald Trump. Following Biden’s dismal debate performance, Republicans, including Trump, are intensifying their preemptive attacks on Harris, emphasizing that electing Biden would effectively put her in power. The possibility of Harris assuming the presidency sooner than expected is no longer a far-fetched idea. The Republican camp appears to be gearing up for this potential scenario in the lead-up to the election.
A NATO summit and rebuilding EU ties are among the primary tasks for new UK leader Keir Starmer
LONDON (AP) — Newly appointed British Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces a whirlwind of responsibilities immediately after a grueling six-week election campaign. Tasked with forming his government, addressing a host of domestic challenges, and reshaping the UK’s relations with the global community, Starmer aims to elevate Britain’s international presence post-Brexit. His agenda includes attending a NATO summit in Washington next week, with a focus on Ukraine, as well as hosting a meeting of the 47-nation European Political Community later this month. Starmer’s tenure is marked by efforts to strengthen ties with Europe and assert the UK’s influence on the global stage.
Putin indicates no necessity for nuclear weapons in Ukraine victory, while keeping options open
Russian President Vladimir Putin has conveyed a clear message to NATO, warning against excessive military support for Ukraine that could escalate to a nuclear confrontation. Despite Russia’s prevailing advantage in the conflict, Putin stated that he does not rely on nuclear weapons to achieve his objectives. However, he emphasized that the West should not assume that the option of using nuclear arms is off the table. Moscow’s nuclear doctrine permits the deployment of such weapons in defense of sovereignty and territorial integrity. Amid NATO’s efforts to bolster Ukraine’s defenses, Putin’s nuclear rhetoric signals a potentially perilous phase in the conflict.
Beryl regains strength in Gulf of Mexico after hitting Yucatan Peninsula, prompting Texas preparations
TULUM, Mexico (AP) — Beryl has reentered the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, poised to reinvigorate after weakening to a tropical storm while crossing Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. The U.S. National Hurricane Center anticipates Beryl regaining hurricane status and tracking towards northeastern Mexico and the Texas coast. Coastal residents have been advised to brace for possible storm surge flooding, heavy rainfall, and strong winds. Some Texas municipalities have issued voluntary evacuation orders for flood-prone areas, restricted beach camping, and recommended that holiday travelers relocate RVs from coastal parks during the July 4 weekend.
Extreme heat wave sweeps US West and beyond, breaking records with more intense temperatures forecasted
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Sweltering temperatures are setting new records across the Western U.S. as a slow-moving heat wave of potentially historic proportions tightens its grip from the Pacific Northwest to Arizona. The Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions are also enduring stifling heat and humidity expected to persist through Saturday and beyond. California’s Death Valley shattered its previous date record by 5 degrees on Friday, reaching 127 degrees, while Phoenix observed a daily high of 118. Temperatures exceeding 115 degrees are projected in Phoenix through Wednesday. Needles, California, also reached a new high of 122 degrees as the heat wave intensifies.
From thriving political newcomer to diminished leader: Macron’s journey as President of France
PARIS (AP) — French President Emmanuel Macron faces potential political setbacks in decisive parliamentary elections on Sunday, a development that could paralyze the country, weaken his international standing, and overshadow his legacy. With France on the cusp of hosting the Paris Olympics, Macron’s diplomatic prowess and pro-European initiatives on the global stage have been notable. However, the looming parliamentary challenges raise concerns about his ability to govern effectively with no majority in parliament and a combative government. Macron’s tenure, which is constitutionally limited to two consecutive terms, may be marred by conflicts as he navigates a path to retain influence and avoid becoming a lame duck president.
Gaza soccer stadium transforms into shelter for displaced Palestinians
GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip (AP) — Thousands of displaced Palestinians in northern Gaza have sought refuge at one of the territory’s largest soccer stadiums as Israeli offensives intensify in eastern Gaza City. Families grapple with limited resources amid ongoing attacks, with many having no prospects of returning home anytime soon. The Yarmouk Sports Stadium has become a makeshift shelter, with tents and clothes strewn across the field where families seek safety from the escalating violence. Displaced individuals recount their multiple displacements and the pervasive fear gripping both children and adults as the conflict persists.
Mount Everest’s highest camp inundated with frozen waste, cleanup efforts expected to span years
KATHMANDU, Nepal (AP) — Mount Everest remains littered with trash and human remains that have accumulated over the decades since the mountain was first conquered. The highest camp at South Col is mired in garbage that poses a daunting cleanup challenge requiring years of concerted effort. Sherpas leading cleaning expeditions have removed 11 tons of trash and four frozen bodies this year alone, estimating that up to 50-60 tons of waste remain at the South Col campsite. Tackling the environmental crisis at Mount Everest demands sustained dedication and resources to ensure the preservation of the world’s highest peak for future generations.
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