Officials report that over 1,000 pilgrims died during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia
CAIRO (AP) — The recent Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia saw more than 1,000 deaths due to intense high temperatures at Islamic holy sites. Saudi Arabia has not yet confirmed the death toll amidst the extreme heat. An Egyptian official stated that more than half of the deceased were from Egypt. The Egyptian government has taken action by revoking the licenses of 16 travel agencies that facilitated unauthorized pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia. The casualties included pilgrims from Indonesia, India, Jordan, Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria, Malaysia, and two from the US.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu continues to claim that the US is withholding arms shipments, despite denials from Washington
TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused the United States of reducing weapons deliveries for Israel’s war effort in Gaza. Netanyahu reiterated these claims on Sunday, alleging a decrease in arms shipments that began four months ago. The dispute highlights the strained relationship between Israel and Washington during the conflict in Gaza. Previous claims by Netanyahu regarding the withheld weapons sparked criticism and confusion among White House officials.
Parts of Iowa experience flooding as extreme heat grips much of the US
Flooding in Iowa has displaced residents from their homes after weeks of heavy rain. At the same time, a large portion of the United States is suffering from intense heat. In Rock Valley, Iowa, residents were evacuated as the Rock River reached capacity. The National Weather Service reports that approximately 15 million people are under a heat warning, with another 90 million under a heat advisory.
The FBI offers a reward for information on deadly wildfires in southern New Mexico
RUIDOSO, N.M. (AP) — Federal authorities are offering a reward for information on the individuals responsible for starting two wildfires in southern New Mexico. The FBI has offered up to $10,000 for details related to the South Fork Fire and Salt Fire, which resulted in fatalities and the destruction of hundreds of homes. Rain and cooler weather have aided firefighting efforts in the region, with officials cautioning the public about post-fire hazards.
Russia raises tensions with the West through a new pact with North Korea
During President Vladimir Putin’s visit to North Korea, a military pact was signed between Russia and North Korea, signaling a willingness to challenge Western interests in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The agreement includes mutual military assistance and the possibility of Russia providing weapons to North Korea. Putin’s actions are seen as a response to NATO’s support for Ukraine, with the Russian leader asserting a readiness to pursue his objectives in Ukraine.
A US aircraft carrier arrives in South Korea amid escalating tensions with North Korea
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — A US aircraft carrier has arrived in South Korea for joint military exercises involving Japan, as tensions rise following a security agreement between Russia and North Korea. The deployment of the USS Theodore Roosevelt strike group in Busan coincided with South Korea’s condemnation of the military deal between Russia and North Korea, citing security concerns.
Iran-backed fighters offer support to Hezbollah in ongoing conflict with Israel
BEIRUT (AP) — Iran-backed groups in the Middle East have expressed willingness to join forces with Hezbollah in its confrontation with Israel. This offer comes amid heightened tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border following recent exchanges. Despite having sufficient fighters, Hezbollah’s leader has received offers from Iran-backed groups in Lebanon, Iraq, and Syria. Israeli officials have warned of a possible military offensive in Lebanon if the situation escalates further.
Ukrainian forces gain ground in conflict with Russia using US-supplied weapons
KHARKIV REGION, Ukraine (AP) — Ukraine has made strategic progress in halting Russia’s advances along the northeastern front due to the use of US-provided weaponry. The decision to utilize Western-supplied artillery and rocket systems in targeted strikes against Russian forces has resulted in successful defensive actions and minor offensive maneuvers. However, Ukrainian commanders emphasize the need for long-range guided missiles to further advance their position.
Donald Trump urges evangelical Christians to participate in the 2024 election and supports Ten Commandments display in schools
WASHINGTON (AP) — Former President Donald Trump has encouraged evangelical Christians to actively engage in the upcoming 2024 election, endorsing the visibility of the Ten Commandments in schools. Speaking at a gathering of influential evangelical leaders, Trump emphasized the importance of Christian voter turnout and lauded a recent law in Louisiana mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms.
Abortion-rights supporters utilize citizen initiatives to preserve access in several states
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — Abortion-rights advocates have leveraged citizen initiatives to safeguard reproductive rights in states where the legislative process is restrictive. In the wake of the US Supreme Court’s decision overturning a constitutional right to abortion, citizen-driven efforts have emerged as a means to defend access in various states. This has been crucial in states where Republican-controlled legislatures have enacted strict abortion laws.
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