Deadliest attack on Israeli forces in months leaves 8 soldiers dead in southern Gaza
JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel’s military confirmed the deaths of eight soldiers in a deadly attack in southern Gaza, marking the deadliest incident for Israeli forces in months. The army provided few details, only stating that the troops were killed in an explosion. These deaths are expected to intensify calls for a cease-fire and add to the frustration over ultra-Orthodox exemptions from military service in Israel. Despite months of cease-fire negotiations between Israel and Hamas, no common ground has been reached. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged that Hamas proposed changes to a U.S.-backed plan, with some deemed viable and others not, but did not provide further information.
Donald Trump’s Michigan visit includes engagements with Black church and MAGA activists
DETROIT (AP) — Former President Donald Trump is making appearances in Michigan with a focus on engaging Black voters and a conservative group associated with white supremacists. Trump is set to participate in a roundtable discussion at an African American church in Detroit, followed by a keynote address at Turning Point Action, a group that the Anti-Defamation League has linked to white supremacists. Michigan, a key swing state, could play a crucial role in the upcoming election, particularly with African American voters who heavily impact election outcomes.
President Biden balances geopolitics with reelection efforts at Hollywood fundraiser
LOS ANGELES (AP) — President Joe Biden is participating in a high-profile fundraiser in Hollywood, featuring appearances by A-list celebrities such as George Clooney, Julia Roberts, and former President Barack Obama. The event, expected to raise at least $28 million, follows Biden’s attendance at the Group of Seven summit in Italy. Biden’s decision to skip a meeting in Switzerland, where world leaders are discussing strategies to end the conflict in Ukraine, is being represented by Vice President Kamala Harris.
Indiana Republicans reject Mike Braun’s choice for lieutenant governor
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Republican delegates in Indiana have opposed Sen. Mike Braun’s preferred candidate for lieutenant governor, instead nominating pastor Micah Beckwith, known for his far-right views. Despite Braun’s endorsement of state Rep. Julie McGuire, delegates opted for Beckwith during the state Republican Party convention. Beckwith’s uncompromising stance on issues such as abortion and gender has garnered attention, leading to his selection as Braun’s running mate.
Global leaders gather in Switzerland for talks on Ukraine peace plan, as Russia remains absent
OBBÜRGEN, Switzerland (AP) — World leaders have converged in Switzerland to discuss strategies for achieving peace in Ukraine, a nation embroiled in conflict for over two years. The absence of Russia from the summit raises doubts about the potential for a significant breakthrough, as Ukraine insists on the withdrawal of Russian forces from its territory. Despite the challenges, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy believes the event could pave the way for a resolution to the ongoing war.
UK royals unite at palace balcony, with Kate’s first public appearance since cancer diagnosis
LONDON (AP) — As part of King Charles III’s birthday celebration, members of the British royal family gathered on a balcony at Buckingham Palace, including the Princess of Wales, Kate, who made her first public appearance since revealing her cancer diagnosis earlier this year. The event, known as Trooping the Color, highlighted the monarch’s role as he inspected troops alongside other royals.
Murder conviction overturned after 43 years, as lawyers allege police involvement
A judge has overturned the conviction of Sandra Hemme, a Missouri woman who has spent 43 years imprisoned for a crime she allegedly committed as a psychiatric patient. Hemme’s attorneys argue that a discredited police officer was responsible for the killing. The judge’s ruling of actual innocence could lead to Hemme’s release within 30 days unless prosecutors retry the case, marking one of the longest wrongful incarceration cases for a woman.
Haitian police chief replaced amid surge in gang violence targeting officers
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — Following criticism of his handling of gang violence, Haiti’s National Police director has been replaced by former police chief Normil Rameau. Rameau, who previously held the position until four years ago, returns to lead a department facing significant challenges due to underfunding and lack of resources. The surge in gang-related violence has claimed the lives of over 2,500 people, including nearly two dozen police officers, in the first quarter of the year.
Legal battle intensifies over unproven stem cell treatments marketed as cure-alls
Attorneys general from multiple states are taking action against companies promoting unproven and costly stem cell treatments as miracle cures for various ailments. Dubious claims of the benefits of such treatments have led to legal scrutiny, with the FDA warning against their use due to potential risks and lack of evidence supporting their effectiveness. Despite the warnings, some individuals continue to advocate for the use of stem cells in treating a wide range of health issues.
Superfans of cicadas showcase their unique fascination with the insects
FOREST PARK, Illinois (AP) — Superfans of periodical cicadas, which have made a prominent appearance in the American Midwest, are showcasing their deep fascination with the insects in various ways. From collecting and photographing cicadas to incorporating them into art and even using them in culinary dishes, these enthusiasts have found creative ways to appreciate the unusual creatures. One fan in Ohio even created a “cicada striptease” performance, adding to the diversity of responses to the cicada phenomenon.
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