Venezuelan opposition claims evidence that their candidate defeated President Maduro in controversial election
CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — Amid widespread demonstrations in Venezuela, opposition candidate Edmundo González has declared that his campaign possesses evidence showing he won the disputed election in which electoral authorities declared President Nicolás Maduro the winner. González, along with opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, stated that they have acquired over 70% of tally sheets from Sunday’s election, revealing that González received more than double the votes of Maduro. They urged people to remain calm, following protests that erupted after Maduro’s victory was announced, and invited them to peacefully gather at 11 a.m. on Tuesday to celebrate the results.
Investigation of soldiers for alleged sexual abuse escalates tensions between Israeli military and hard-liners
JERUSALEM (AP) — An Israeli military court is set to conduct a hearing on Tuesday for nine soldiers detained for questioning regarding alleged abuse of a Palestinian at a secretive facility where Israel has held prisoners from Gaza during the conflict. A defense attorney representing some of the soldiers revealed that the investigation involves claims of sexual abuse. The probe has heightened tensions between the military leadership and hard-line nationalists in the government advocating for a more aggressive approach in Israel’s actions in Gaza. The upcoming hearing, at which judges will decide on extending the detentions, may spark further protests by supporters of the soldiers.
Lice, scabies, and skin diseases afflict Palestinian children in Gaza’s overcrowded tent camps
KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip (AP) — Health officials in Gaza report a surge in skin diseases due to dire conditions in densely packed tent camps accommodating hundreds of thousands of Palestinians displaced from their homes. Palestinians claim they lack soap for personal hygiene amid the summer heat. The sanitation infrastructure has collapsed following Israel’s attacks, leading to a sharp rise in cases of lice, scabies, and skin rashes documented by the World Health Organization. Hospitals are inundated with hundreds of cases of skin diseases daily, including numerous children suffering from spots, scabs, and lesions that often develop into severe infections.
Death toll rises to 93 as landslides caused by heavy rains wreak havoc in southern India
NEW DELHI (AP) — Multiple landslides triggered by incessant rains in southern India have claimed the lives of 93 individuals and left many feared trapped under debris. The landslides struck hilly villages in Kerala state on Tuesday, flattening houses, uprooting trees, and destroying infrastructure. Rescue operations are underway to extricate those buried in mud and rubble, yet challenging conditions such as blocked roads and unstable terrain hinder the efforts. Television footage shows rescuers navigating through mud and debris, while helicopters are being deployed to assist in the rescue mission. More rainfall is predicted, raising concerns of further disruptions.
Taylor Swift expresses shock over tragic incident where 3 children lost their lives in a UK dance class attack
LONDON (AP) — British authorities are interrogating a suspect to ascertain the motive behind a 17-year-old boy’s assault on children attending a Taylor Swift-themed dance and yoga class, resulting in the deaths of three individuals and leaving six in critical condition. Eight other children and two adults sustained injuries in the attack in Southport, northwest England, with five children and both adults listed in critical condition at local hospitals. Swift took to Instagram to convey her profound shock and disbelief at the tragic event. The 17-year-old perpetrator has been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder.
Democrats reignite hopes for Georgia as Kamala Harris gears up to campaign in the state
ATLANTA (AP) — After appearing to concede Georgia just over a week ago, Democrats have renewed optimism for the state as Vice President Kamala Harris prepares to hold a campaign event in Atlanta. President Joe Biden’s campaign had shifted focus to retaining Midwest “blue wall” states, potentially disregarding key battlegrounds like Georgia. With Biden stepping aside and Harris emerging as the probable nominee, Democrats see a chance for Georgia to become a competitive race once again, fueled by increased energy and fundraising. Harris is planning a significant rally in Atlanta on Tuesday to galvanize support, similar to rallies held by former President Donald Trump.
Donald Trump hints at debating Kamala Harris but leaves room for uncertainty
NEW YORK (AP) — Former President Donald Trump has toned down his commitment to debating Vice President Kamala Harris, expressing doubts about the necessity of a debate and suggesting he may or may not engage in one. In an interview with Fox News Channel aired on Monday, Trump evaded definitive answers about participating in a debate with Harris, in contrast to his eagerness to debate then-Democratic nominee Joe Biden. With Harris poised to replace Biden, Trump is deliberating the terms of their potential debate. The Republican leader’s earlier enthusiasm for debating Biden now appears more muted with Harris in the spotlight.
Vladimir Putin hints at potential changes to Russia’s nuclear doctrine amid Ukraine tensions
In a bid to dissuade Western countries from bolstering military aid to Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin suggests that Russia could revise its nuclear doctrine pertaining to the use of its atomic weapons. Putin warns that any strikes by Kyiv on Russian soil using Western-supplied advanced weaponry or the deployment of NATO troops to Ukraine would constitute a serious escalation warranting a forceful response. Describing Russia’s nuclear policy as a dynamic framework that could be altered based on emerging circumstances, Putin and other Russian hardliners advocate for toughening the current doctrine, claiming it lacks the deterrence needed against the West.
Men’s triathlon at Paris Olympics postponed due to concerns over Seine water quality
PARIS (AP) — Paris Olympics organizers have delayed the men’s triathlon event due to worries about water quality in the Seine River. Officials aim to proceed with the swimming segment of the race once the river undergoes rigorous cleaning to ensure safe levels of E. coli and other contaminants. The women’s triathlon competition is also scheduled for the following day, contingent on the water testing meeting safety standards. However, anticipated storms and rainfall in the region could complicate rescheduling efforts. Rainfall typically elevates bacteria levels in the Seine, posing challenges to organizing the events.
Paris Olympics braces for heat wave following damp opening ceremony
PARIS (AP) — The 2024 Olympics anticipates a heat wave in France following a damp inaugural ceremony. Meteorologists forecast temperatures exceeding 95 degrees in Paris and surrounding regions, with even hotter conditions expected in southern France. The scarcity of air conditioning in homes and public spaces raises concerns over heat-related illnesses. Measures such as misters at venues and water distribution by transit operators are in place to mitigate the effects of the heatwave. Equestrian competitors’ horses will be sheltered in shady areas and sprayed with water to keep them cool. Despite the extreme temperatures, some athletes express familiarity with the heat and minimal apprehension.
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