Blinken says Israel agrees to a U.S.-backed proposal for a cease-fire and calls on Hamas to do same
TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announces that Israel has accepted a bridging proposal for a cease-fire and the release of hostages in Gaza. He urges Hamas to do the same, but does not specify if the proposal has addressed the gaps mentioned by the militant group. Blinken made the statement after a 2 1/2 hour meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday, and is scheduled to travel to Egypt on Tuesday. The United States, Egypt, and Qatar have been working on brokering an agreement, with the negotiations facing several hurdles. Blinken does not mention if the proposal addresses Israel’s demands for control over two strategic corridors in Gaza, a point that Hamas has rejected, as well as other longstanding issues in the negotiations.
Civilians flee Pokrovsk as Russia’s army advances towards the key eastern Ukraine city
POKROVSK, Ukraine (AP) — Civilians with children and heavy suitcases are fleeing the eastern city of Pokrovsk in Ukraine, as the Russian army rapidly approaches despite a quick incursion by Ukraine into Russia’s Kursk region. Local authorities state that Russian forces are moving so fast that families must evacuate the city and surrounding areas starting Tuesday. Approximately 53,000 people still reside in Pokrovsk, according to officials, and some have chosen to leave as the threat from Russia’s army increases. Residents of all ages are leaving the city, boarding trains and buses with their belongings. Some are seen weeping as they prepare to depart, with soldiers assisting the elderly with their bags. Pokrovsk is considered one of Ukraine’s main defensive strongholds.
Democrats convene at their convention following Harris’ ascendence, but facing unanswered questions
CHICAGO (AP) — The Democratic Party, rejuvenated by Vice President Kamala Harris’ rise to prominence, is holding its convention in Chicago with a mix of looking to the future and reflecting on the past. The convention aims to celebrate and strengthen Harris as President Joe Biden’s successor, following the transformation of the party due to her influence. Biden will deliver the keynote address Monday night, while Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, will introduce themselves to the American public after bypassing a primary campaign.
Biden’s resilience through challenges highlighted at Democratic National Convention
CHICAGO (AP) — President Joe Biden arrives at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago with a mix of admiration and resolve. Biden initially faced criticism after a disastrous debate in June, and his age became a point of concern. However, in Chicago, Biden is determined to show that he can rise above adversity and demonstrate the distinction between stepping aside and giving up.
House Republicans release impeachment report on Biden, next steps uncertain
WASHINGTON (AP) — House Republicans have issued their impeachment inquiry report on President Joe Biden. The investigation, spanning a year, does not allege any criminal activity by the president related to his son Hunter Biden’s business dealings. The report, released before the Democratic National Convention, focuses on the Biden family’s business practices and potential impeachable offenses. With Biden not seeking reelection, the future steps regarding the impeachment inquiry are uncertain. The White House has dismissed the inquiry as a political maneuver and urged House Republicans to move on.
Trump embarks on nationwide campaign as he grapples with the challenge of Kamala Harris
BEDMINSTER, N.J. (AP) — As the Democratic convention commences in Chicago, Donald Trump’s campaign is regrouping after struggling to adjust to Kamala Harris’ emergence as the top of the Democratic ticket. Trump initially downplayed Harris’ rise, but his campaign faced challenges as he made controversial statements and racist attacks regarding her candidacy. Trump’s allies are concerned that his response to Harris could hinder his chances in the election.
British tech mogul Mike Lynch missing after luxury superyacht accident off Sicily
ROME (AP) — British tech magnate Mike Lynch and several others are reported missing after their luxury superyacht sank during a storm off Sicily, with Lynch’s wife and 14 others surviving the incident. Authorities confirmed the discovery of one body, with six individuals still missing and 15 people rescued. The superyacht overturned near the port of Porticello, with a crew of 10 and 12 passengers on board, including British, American, and Canadian nationals. Reports indicate that a sudden severe storm with waterspouts caused the vessel to sink.
Flash floods in Connecticut result in 2 deaths
OXFORD, Conn. (AP) — Communities in Connecticut and Long Island are recovering from severe flooding caused by heavy rains that led to road washouts and trapped individuals. Unfortunately, two individuals lost their lives due to the storm, which also caused disruptions in New Jersey. Western Connecticut received up to 10 inches of rain, leading to the recovery of one woman’s body about 35 miles from Hartford. Rescue teams are still searching for another woman who was swept away during a rescue attempt.
Monsoon rains in Pakistan result in more deaths as flash floods hit the south
ISLAMABAD (AP) — Flash floods triggered by monsoon rains have affected southern Pakistan, causing floods in streets and blocking a major highway in the north. The death toll from rain-related incidents since July 1 has risen to 209, with 14 fatalities reported in Punjab province in the past 24 hours. The monsoon season in Pakistan typically runs from July to September, with climate change being blamed for the increase in heavy rains in recent years. Tourists have been advised to avoid affected areas, and neighboring Afghanistan has also experienced damage from rains and floods.
Pioneering TV host Phil Donahue passes away at 88
Phil Donahue, known for his groundbreaking daytime talk show that set the standard for audience participation, has passed away at the age of 88. Dubbed “the king of daytime talk,” Donahue’s show was the first to incorporate audience interaction, influencing a format that led to the success of other talk show hosts like Oprah Winfrey and Ellen DeGeneres. Initially titled “The Phil Donahue Show” before being renamed “Donahue,” the show ran nationally for 26 years and won numerous Emmys. Donahue, who lived in New York with his wife, actress Marlo Thomas, left a lasting legacy in television.
Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
