Netanyahu refuses to accept a deal to end Gaza war, casting doubt on latest truce proposal
TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s statement that he would only agree to a “partial” cease-fire deal that does not end the war has raised concerns about the viability of a U.S.-backed plan to bring an end to the 8-month-long conflict in Gaza. In an interview with a pro-Netanyahu Israeli TV channel on Sunday, Netanyahu’s remarks sparked outrage among families of hostages held by Hamas. While his comments align with his previous stance on the terms for a deal, they come at a crucial time and could hinder mediation efforts to resolve the war.
Experts warn of potential famine in Gaza despite increased aid in the north
KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip (AP) — A preliminary report from a leading international hunger crises organization suggests that although an influx of aid has slightly improved conditions in northern Gaza, the entire region remains at a “high risk” of famine following Israel’s offensive in Rafah, which led to displacement and disruptions in aid distribution in the south. The report indicates that nearly all residents in Gaza are facing food insecurity, with over 495,000 people expected to experience severe starvation in the upcoming months. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification will publish the final report on Tuesday.
Lawsuit challenges Louisiana law mandating display of Ten Commandments in classrooms
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — Civil liberties groups have filed a lawsuit against Louisiana’s new law that requires public school classrooms to exhibit the Ten Commandments. The plaintiffs, including parents of Louisiana public school students, are represented by attorneys from the American Civil Liberties Union, Americans United for Separation of Church and State, and the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Opponents argue that the law violates the separation of church and state and could isolate non-Christian students. Proponents claim the display is historical and not purely religious, citing the documents as foundational to state and national governance.
Weekend marked by mass shootings across the U.S. as summer begins
The first weekend of summer witnessed a grim recurrence of mass shootings in American cities plagued by gun violence. Incidents in Alabama, Ohio, and Arkansas resulted in numerous casualties at a party, an entertainment district, and a grocery store, respectively. The spike in mass shootings over consecutive weekends prompted mayors in affected cities to appeal for assistance from state and federal authorities. In Montgomery, Alabama, nine people were wounded in a shooting early Sunday at a crowded party.
Midwestern flooding leads to bridge collapse, evacuations, and fatalities
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (AP) — Severe flooding in the Midwestern U.S. has caused a railroad bridge to collapse and is posing a threat to a dam following heavy rains that forced hundreds of evacuations and rescues. The flooding has compounded difficulties for parts of Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Minnesota, as temperatures soared close to 100 degrees on Monday. With more rain in the forecast, the situation may worsen, as many rivers are not expected to peak until later this week. Governors of the affected states have reported damage to infrastructure, businesses, and utilities, as well as the need for medical facility evacuations.
Supreme Court to rule on Trump’s immunity from charges and Capitol attack prosecutions
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court is facing a series of consequential decisions stemming from the U.S. Capitol attack on January 6, 2021. The justices are expected to rule on whether former President Donald Trump can be prosecuted for his actions to overturn the 2020 election results and whether his supporters who stormed the Capitol can be charged for obstructing official proceedings. Additionally, the court will determine if former Trump advisor Steve Bannon can remain out of prison while appealing his conviction for contempt of Congress. These rulings are anticipated to be issued within days, potentially leading to significant legal precedents.
Rising HIV cases among young gay Latinos prompt calls for targeted funding
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Efforts to combat HIV among gay and bisexual men, particularly Latino communities, have drawn attention due to a rising number of cases among this demographic. While African Americans historically have the highest HIV rates in the U.S., data from 2022 show an increasing proportion of new diagnoses and infections among gay and bisexual Latino men. Health policy advocates urge the federal government to declare a public health emergency to allocate additional resources for HIV prevention and treatment, emphasizing that HIV disparities are not inevitable.
Auto dealerships resort to manual processes after cyberattacks on software provider
NEW YORK (AP) — Car dealerships in North America are grappling with disruptions following cyberattacks on CDK Global, a major software provider for thousands of dealers. Dealership operations have been impacted, leading to delays and handwritten vehicle orders for customers. CDK anticipates that the system restoration process could take several days to complete. Group 1 Automotive Inc., a significant automotive retailer, acknowledged the challenges and is utilizing alternative methods to serve customers during the disruption.
Texas Rangers criticized for lack of Pride Night event, contrasting with other MLB teams
ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — The Texas Rangers have drawn criticism for not hosting a Pride Night event during June, known as Pride Month, unlike the rest of Major League Baseball. LGBTQ+ advocates express disappointment with the Rangers’ stance on LGBTQ+ inclusion, highlighting a need for change. While the Rangers have collaborated with LGBTQ+ organizations in the past, advocates believe a shift in ownership could spur progress. The team asserts its commitment to diversity and inclusion internally, but some advocates believe more action is necessary.
Tensions rise between Israel and Hezbollah, raising fears of all-out conflict
BEIRUT (AP) — Israel and the militant group Hezbollah in Lebanon are on the brink of a potential war, prompting international concerns about the escalating tensions. Efforts to de-escalate the situation have not yielded results, with casualties reported on both sides. A conflict between Lebanon and Israel could have far-reaching consequences, leading to a regional conflict involving multiple allies. Diplomatic solutions are being sought to avoid a full-scale war that could further destabilize the region.
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