Netanyahu refuses to agree to a deal ending the war in Gaza
TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has cast doubt on a U.S.-backed proposal to end the 8-month-long war in Gaza. Netanyahu stated that he would only accept a “partial” cease-fire deal, which would not bring the war to an end. His remarks, made in an interview with a pro-Netanyahu Israeli TV channel, have caused uproar among families of hostages held by Hamas. Although Netanyahu’s comments align with his previous statements on the conditions for a deal, they have the potential to hinder progress in ending the war.
Experts warn of famine risk in Gaza despite increased aid
KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip (AP) — A draft report from a leading authority on hunger crises indicates that an increase in aid has improved conditions in northern Gaza. However, the report highlights that the entire territory remains at a “high risk” of famine following Israel’s offensive in Rafah, which led to displacement and disruption of aid operations in the south. The draft report projects that over 495,000 people in Gaza will face severe starvation in the coming months. The final version of the report is scheduled for release on Tuesday by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification.
Mass shootings plague U.S. cities during the first weekend of summer
The beginning of summer brought a tragic wave of mass shootings to American cities already struggling with gun violence. Incidents over the weekend resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries at a party in Alabama, in an entertainment district in Ohio, and at a grocery store in Arkansas. The weekend marked the second consecutive week of mass shootings across the U.S., prompting mayors in affected cities to seek assistance from state and federal authorities. In Montgomery, Alabama, nine people were wounded in a crowded party where hundreds of rounds were fired.
Midwest flooding causes rail bridge collapse, evacuations, and fatalities
Flooding in the Midwestern U.S. led to the collapse of a railroad bridge connecting North Sioux City, South Dakota, with Sioux City, Iowa. The flooding has triggered water rescues, evacuations, at least one fatality, and additional challenges during a heat wave in the region. Heavy rainfall has caused flooding in South Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, and Minnesota, resulting in entire neighborhoods and an entire town in Iowa being evacuated. More rain is expected in the coming week, along with continued heat in the Southeast, parts of the South, and the Plains.
Supreme Court to rule on immunity for ex-president Trump and Capitol attack cases
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court is expected to address a series of decisions related to the Jan. 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol attack. The justices will rule on whether former President Donald Trump is immune from criminal charges related to his attempts to overturn the 2020 election results, as well as determining the fate of individuals who stormed the Capitol and obstructed official proceedings. The Court will also decide whether former Trump advisor Steve Bannon can remain out of prison while appealing his contempt of Congress conviction for defying a subpoena from the House committee investigating the Capitol attack.
Increasing HIV cases among young gay Latinos prompt calls for targeted funding
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has been working to combat the nation’s HIV epidemic by directing substantial funding to states, counties, and territories with high infection rates. While African Americans continue to have the highest HIV rates overall, a recent analysis shows that Latinos accounted for the largest share of new HIV diagnoses and infections among gay and bisexual men in 2022 compared to other racial and ethnic groups. Health policy advocates are urging officials to declare a public health emergency to allocate more resources for HIV prevention and treatment.
Texas Rangers face criticism for not hosting a Pride Night
ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — The Texas Rangers have faced ongoing criticism for being the only Major League Baseball team without a Pride Night event. Despite ongoing advocacy efforts and collaborations with LGBTQ+ organizations, the Rangers have yet to participate in the LGBTQ+ celebration during Pride Month. Advocates believe that a change in ownership may be necessary to prompt a shift in the team’s approach. While the Rangers emphasize their commitment to diversity and inclusion internally, LGBTQ+ advocates continue to push for greater recognition and representation.
Planned Parenthood announces $40 million investment in abortion rights ahead of election
WASHINGTON (AP) — Planned Parenthood’s political and advocacy arms are planning to spend $40 million prior to the upcoming elections to support President Joe Biden and key Democratic candidates. The organization aims to mobilize voters who oppose Republican-led initiatives to restrict abortion access in critical races nationwide. Planned Parenthood’s efforts will focus on eight states initially: Arizona, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, North Carolina, Montana, New Hampshire, and New York, with the goal of amplifying the voices of those supportive of abortion rights.
‘Hamster’ crypto craze sweeps Iran amid economic challenges before election
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Iranians are increasingly investing in the “Hamster Kombat” app in the hopes of financial gain, reflecting broader economic challenges in the country ahead of the presidential election. Despite facing Western sanctions, high inflation, and a lack of employment opportunities, Iranians are turning to alternative means, such as cryptocurrency, to navigate economic hardships. The surge in interest in the “Hamster Kombat” app exemplifies the economic strain on Iran’s population, as they seek new avenues for financial stability amid ongoing economic difficulties.
Day of mourning in Dagestan after deadly attacks kill 20
MOSCOW (AP) — Russia’s southern region of Dagestan is observing the first of three days of mourning following a series of coordinated attacks carried out by Islamic militants. The attacks resulted in the deaths of 20 individuals, primarily police officers, and included assaults on houses of worship in two cities. The violence, attributed to Islamic extremists in the predominantly Muslim region, marks the deadliest incident in Russia since a mass shooting at a concert in suburban Moscow in March. While no group has claimed responsibility for the attacks in Dagestan, authorities are investigating the coordinated assaults on Makhachkala and Derbent, which resulted in the deaths of all five gunmen.
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