Biden acknowledges debate missteps but vows to protect democracy. Democrats stand by him — at least for now
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden is working to ease Democratic concerns following his shaky performance in a debate with former President Donald Trump. Admitting that he’s not as strong a debater as he once was, Biden told a rally in North Carolina on Friday, “The choice in this election is simple: Donald Trump will destroy our democracy. I will defend it.” While Democratic lawmakers have voiced worries, they are standing by Biden for the time being. Meanwhile, Trump’s attacks on critics and false policies serve as a reminder of the chaos of his Republican presidency.
Iran’s election results fluctuate, with a race between reformist Masoud Pezeshkian and hard-liner Saeed Jalili
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Early results from Iran’s presidential election show a tight race between reformist Masoud Pezeshkian and hard-liner Saeed Jalili. The lead keeps shifting between the two candidates, suggesting a runoff vote is likely. After counting around 14 million votes, Pezeshkian had 5.9 million while Jalili had 5.5 million. Hard-line parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf followed with 1.89 million votes. Shiite cleric Mostafa Pourmohammadi received over 111,900 votes. Turnout figures have not been released yet, an important factor in gauging support for Iran’s Shiite theocracy amidst economic turmoil and protests.
An update on the US-built pier intended for Gaza aid distribution
WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. military-built pier in Gaza has been removed from the shore due to rough seas, casting doubt on its role in distributing aid to Palestinians. Humanitarian organizations have halted the distribution of supplies received by sea since June 9 over security concerns, and there’s no plan to resume distribution. U.S. officials suggest that the pier may not be reinstalled unless aid agencies agree to resume operations. Meanwhile, supplies from Cyprus are accumulating on shore, with the secure area nearing capacity. Despite weather and security challenges, the pier has faced a tough journey.
Russia advances its offensive in Ukraine, issuing threats as the West scrambles to respond
This summer, Russian forces are steadily advancing through Ukraine’s vulnerable defenses, prompting the West to seek new strategies to aid Kyiv. President Vladimir Putin has made new demands on Ukraine’s leadership and threatened retaliation against the West. Efforts to counter the offensive and potential Kremlin responses could escalate the conflict and heighten the risk of direct confrontation between Russia and NATO.
US strengthens defense partnerships with Asian allies in response to North Korean and Chinese threats
GIMHAE AIR BASE, South Korea (AP) — The recently concluded Freedom Edge exercise in the East China Sea brought together Japanese, South Korean, and American naval forces for joint maneuvers. This annual drill is crucial as the U.S. seeks to bolster alliances in the Indo-Pacific region to counter China and North Korea’s growing assertiveness. Expert analysis suggests that South Korea and Japan, with their large militaries, can effectively cooperate with the U.S.
UN warns that only 17% of global development targets are likely to be met by 2030
UNITED NATIONS (AP) — The United Nations reports that only 17% of the 169 targets set to improve global conditions by 2030 are on track to be achieved. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres describes the progress as inadequate. World leaders established these goals, focusing on everything from poverty alleviation to gender equality, in 2015. Yet, nearly half of the targets show minimal progress, while over a third are stagnant or regressing.
The surprising resolution of Julian Assange’s legal saga
WASHINGTON (AP) — WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange’s sudden guilty plea was the culmination of negotiations spanning a year and a half. Both sides had conflicting aims, with the Justice Department pushing for a felony plea and Assange avoiding U.S. courts. The compromise led to Assange admitting guilt in a federal courthouse in Saipan, granting him freedom.
North Dakota Governor faces criticism for shifting stance on LGBTQ issues as he eyes presidential run
BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, known for his focus on economic priorities, faced backlash after signing bills targeting transgender individuals as he pursued a presidential bid. Despite vetoing anti-LGBTQ measures previously, Burgum’s actions raised questions as he positioned himself for national politics, potentially as Donald Trump’s running mate.
Baseball legend Orlando Cepeda, known as ‘Baby Bull,’ passes away at 86
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Hall of Famer Orlando Cepeda, renowned as the ‘Baby Bull’ for his powerful hitting, has died at 86. The San Francisco Giants and his family announced his passing, and a moment of silence was observed during a game at Oracle Park in his honor. Cepeda’s legacy in baseball endures, despite health challenges he faced in recent years.
Legacy of activism sparked by the brutal death of Vincent Chin in 1982
Chinese American Vincent Chin’s tragic murder in 1982 catalyzed a wave of activism among Asian Americans, transcending ethnic divides. His case continues to resonate today, inspiring legal reenactments and cinematic adaptations. As vigils across the country honored Chin’s memory, advocates stress the ongoing struggle for equality and the need for education on Asian American history to combat stereotypes.
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