Harris expresses readiness for debate with Trump, accuses him of ‘backpedaling’ from Sept. 10 faceoff
In Washington, Vice President Kamala Harris has confirmed her willingness to debate Donald Trump and criticized him for reneging on a previous agreement for a debate set to be hosted by ABC News on Sept. 10. While Trump has suggested moving the event to Fox News, he is open to the possibility of holding two debates with Harris. Harris believes that voters deserve to witness the contrasting views on the debate stage. She made these remarks to reporters at Joint Base Andrews after returning from a trip to Indiana and Texas.
Harris urges Netanyahu to end Gaza war and bring hostages home
Vice President Kamala Harris has advocated for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reach a cease-fire quickly with Hamas in order to bring back the hostages held in Gaza since the attack on Oct. 7. She had a candid conversation with Netanyahu, emphasizing Israel’s right to self-defense while expressing deep concern over the high casualties in Gaza during the nine-month conflict and the dire humanitarian situation. Harris echoed President Joe Biden’s call to find a resolution to the war but adopted a more forceful and urgent approach.
Prosecutors oppose dismissal of Trump’s hush money conviction, refute immunity claim
Prosecutors are urging a judge to uphold Donald Trump’s conviction in the hush money case despite the recent Supreme Court ruling on presidential immunity. The Manhattan district attorney’s office argues that the verdict should stand because the case involves unofficial acts for which a former president is not immune. Trump’s lawyers are attempting to have the verdict and indictment dismissed based on the Supreme Court’s decision granting presidents significant protection from prosecution.
US arrests leaders of Mexico’s Sinaloa cartel: ‘El Mayo’ Zambada and son of ‘El Chapo’
The U.S. Justice Department announces the arrests of Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, a longstanding leader of Mexico’s Sinaloa cartel, and Joaquín Guzmán López, a son of another notorious cartel leader, in Texas. Zambada has been a key figure in the cartel for many years alongside Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán. Known for overseeing the cartel’s smuggling operations while maintaining a low profile, Zambada and Guzmán López surrendered to U.S. authorities after arriving on a private plane. The arrests mark a significant development in the ongoing battle against organized crime.
Brazil apologizes for mistreatment of Japanese immigrants post-WWII
In Sao Paulo, the Brazilian government issues an apology to the Japanese community for human rights violations during the persecution and internment of immigrants in the aftermath of World War II. The president of the Amnesty Commission acknowledges the mistreatment and torture suffered by 172 immigrants who were sent to a concentration camp on the São Paulo coast from 1946 to 1948. The apology serves as a recognition of the injustices inflicted on the Japanese immigrants and aims to address the dark chapter in Brazil’s history.
Lightning strike and car fire trigger wildfires in the West
Authorities reveal that wildfires raging in the West, including California’s largest blaze this year, were sparked by a burning car pushed into a gully. A 42-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the wildfire, named the Park Fire, which has scorched over 195 square miles near Chico, California. While evacuations continue in the area, some residents in Oregon have been allowed to return home following a thunderstorm that brought rain and lightning, posing both relief and potential danger.
Chinese and Russian bombers near Alaska raise military cooperation concerns
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin expresses concern over Russian and Chinese bombers flying together for the first time in international airspace off the coast of Alaska, signaling expanding military coordination. While the flights were not considered a direct threat and were intercepted by U.S. and Canadian fighter jets, the presence of Chinese bomber aircraft within the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone raises alarm. The collaboration between Chinese and Russian aircraft from a base in northeast Russia highlights the evolving dynamics in the region.
Venezuela presidential candidates wrap up campaigns ahead of election
Venezuela’s presidential candidates conclude their campaigns with large demonstrations ahead of the upcoming election, showcasing the contrasting approaches of the leading contenders. President Nicolás Maduro, seeking a third term, addresses a massive crowd with music and dancing, while opposition candidate Edmundo González Urrutia mobilizes far fewer supporters through the capital. Despite facing challenges, the ruling party braces for a competitive election, with Maduro’s popularity waning among segments of the electorate.
Video game performers set to strike over AI concerns
Hollywood’s video game performers announce a strike following unsuccessful negotiations with major game studios over artificial intelligence safeguards. The strike, commencing at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, marks the second work stoppage for video game actors under the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists. While progress has been made on wage and job safety issues, the impasse over regulating generative AI technology has led to the stalemate in contract talks.
Paris aims to redefine Olympics with ambitious Games and extravagant opening
Paris gears up to host its first Olympic Games in a century, with an extravagant opening ceremony set to kick off a groundbreaking 16-day sporting event. The ambitious event on the River Seine promises a blend of Olympic competition, iconic landmarks, and French cultural flair, positioning Paris as a fitting host for the Games. Despite the grandeur, the challenges for Paris are significant, with the success of the Games hinging on a seamless fusion of sports excellence and Parisian allure.
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